I stared at the person moving boxes into the vacant house next to mine through the curtains. I had been staring for quite a while now…four hours, maybe? I hadn’t thought to track the time. They’d caught my eye from the moment the moving truck had arrived into the neighborhood. They were just too captivating.

I sigh as I stand up from the couch and open the blinds. The sun is bright, the sky is blue, it was the perfect day. My lips curl into a small smile. I just know this is my chance. Taking steps downstairs, I felt a sharp pain stab through my sock and into the sole of my foot.

Ah. There was the missing knife from my collection. Ignoring it for now, I tuck it into my pant pocket and walk outside toward my new neighbor. I put on a charming smile and raised my hand for a handshake.

“Hello! I noticed that you were moving in. It’s nice to meet you, my name is Ian.” I introduced myself like a normal person. This new neighbor can’t know just yet. So, I’ll play nice for now.