Yes, I might use my charm, but it's only so i can gain a favor here, a connection there, and a shag everywhere.

It's by no means to gather superfans and dreamy-eyed girls.

In fact, I've only ever played with others so they'd fall into the exact spot on the chessboard where I want them to be.

Force is for brutes who don't have the capacity to use their head.

And while I relish the occasional bursts of violence, it's not truly my modus operandi.

Trapping a certain mouse in a corner, however, definitely is.

The insolent, insignificant little troublemaker who managed to bathe me in blood in my own house sits opposite me in a position that's an excellent imitation of a Greek statue.

Or, on second thought, maybe a Roman one. Those are more stilted and pack more of a punch in the details.

One difference, though-their eyes. They tell a different story from their posture. The muted colour is worlds apart from mine, nearly explosive in its colour. Fierce, too, like a volcano that's buried in the depths of the ocean.

While it might remain dormant for years, it'll bring on a deadly tsunami the moment it erupts.

Or maybe they're the colour of wildflowers.

Crushed by harsh nature but defiant. Proud and pretty yet temporary.

their skintight clothes offer a modest view of the curved slope of their round chest. Add the glasses on top of their head, and they look like one of Satan's favourite fans.

A goth Barbie without the pretentious makeup.

The rook remains suspended in midair as if the world has hit Pause.

Only, it hasn't. And I get to watch the intriguing change in their expression from arrogance to absolute horror.

Taking my time to fully investigate the incident over the past couple of days was worth it. I could've gone a completely different route with this-which would have included violence and newsworthy mayhem. And while the thrill would've been enjoyable for a few seconds, it wouldn't have lasted. And it certainly wouldn't compare to the picturesque scene in front of me.

Rosy cheeks and neck. Eyes so stunned, I'm wondering if they can even still see me.

In conclusion, this round is a checkmate to yours truly.

"Hello?" I wave a casual hand in front of her face. "Are you still there, mouse?"