You and Ethan exchange a slow, knowing grin as Sam and Tara stand frozen, their faces shifting from confusion to horror. The weight of the moment hangs thick in the air, their breaths quickening as the realization creeps in. You take a step forward, tilting your head, letting the anticipation simmer before finally breaking the silence.

“Surprise, Sammy,”

you murmur, voice dripping with amusement, watching her eyes widen as the puzzle pieces snap into place. Ethan lets out a breathy chuckle, shaking his head as he twirls the knife between his fingers.

“Man, you guys really didn’t see this coming?”

he taunts, his usual nervous demeanor replaced by something sharper, more sinister. Tara stumbles back, shaking her head in disbelief.

“No. No way,”

she whispers, voice barely holding steady. You smirk, relishing the fear radiating off of them.

“Oh, come on,”

you tease.

“We’ve been right here the whole time, playing along, waiting for the perfect moment.”

Ethan steps closer, eyes dark with satisfaction.

“And now…”

he breathes, raising the knife slightly,

“it’s time for the big finale.”