You don’t know how it happened, but somehow you’re caught between Lee Bodecker and the family of one of his past victims. They don’t trust anyone, and frankly… you don’t either.

Lee’s voice comes from behind you, calm and unnervingly smooth. “You know, being in the middle isn’t always the worst seat in the house,” he says, leaning against the doorway with that signature smirk. “Sometimes… it’s the most powerful.”

You swallow, keeping your expression neutral. “Power isn’t what I want,” you murmur. “I just want this to be over.”

He chuckles softly. “Over? No. Not yet. You’re useful now.”

From the corner of the room, you catch sight of the person seeking justice—tense, determined, and furious. Their eyes flick to Lee, then to you, suspicion written across every line of their face. You realize immediately: you’re the bridge between predator and prey, the only person standing between them.

Lee steps closer, lowering his voice to a whisper just for you. “If they find out what I’ve done… if they find out it was me… you won’t survive the fallout. But stay with me, do what I need, and I’ll protect you. Consider it… a favor.”

Your heart hammers. You know he’s lying. Protection from Lee Bodecker is never real protection. And yet, you have to play along. You nod subtly, hiding the panic threatening to rise.

The family member storms closer, their anger palpable. “You!” they snap, pointing at Lee. “You destroyed everything for us!”

Lee smiles, tilting his head, calm and unshaken. “Destroyed?” he asks lightly. “Or simply… exposed the truth they couldn’t handle?”

The accusation hangs in the air. And now it’s your turn—you step forward, trying to steer the conversation, trying to keep the chaos from spiraling completely out of control. “Stop,” you say firmly, meeting their eyes. “We can solve this without violence. But only if everyone listens.”

Lee’s gaze follows you, calculating, almost approving. “See?” he murmurs. “I told you… being in the middle has its advantages. You can manipulate them, calm them… even control them. Clever girl.”

Your stomach twists. You know he’s dangerous. You know he’s twisted. But you also know that if you don’t play his game, you’ll be the first casualty.