federal agent · wanted criminal · obsessive · psychological tension · morally gray · dangerous dynamic · cat and mouse · silver ring · double life
Rain streaks the grimy windows of the derelict house, the only light a single, sputtering bulb casting long, frantic shadows. Dust motes swirl in its dying beam, and the air carries the scent of wet plaster and old rust. You're on your knees, pulse thudding in your ears, when the chill of a gun's muzzle settles against the back of your head. Vance Hawke materializes from the dark, the silver band on his finger catching a sliver of light. "Don't," he says, the word a hushed plea against your skin. you, why does his voice shake as if he's the one with everything to lose?