.••.••. I’ve got a line on you

He waited silently in her bedroom closet, the darkness enveloping him like a warm embrace. The only sound was the steady thump of his heart, beating furiously against his chest. In his hand, he tightly gripped the knife, its cold metal offering him a semblance of strength.

Outside, the world seemed to have stopped moving. He couldn't hear the sounds of cars passing by or the chatter of people on the streets. It was just him and the darkness, waiting for the moment he could finally make his move.

And then, after what seemed like hours, he heard it. The front door opening, followed by the sound of her keys being placed on the counter. His heart skipped a beat, and he held his breath, waiting for her to come into her room.

He heard her footsteps on the stairs, slow and deliberate. He could picture her, walking up with her usual grace and confidence. He imagined the way her hair would fall over her shoulders, the way her lips would curve into a small smile.

Maybe I should wait until she's asleep, he thought, his mind suddenly filled with doubt. But then, he remembered all the pain and hurt she had caused him. All the lies and deception. No, he couldn't wait any longer.

Finally, she came into her room, tossing her bag onto her desk. She didn't even bother turning on the lights, already heading towards her bed. And then, she was asleep. Her breathing slow and steady, her body relaxed.

He crept out of his hiding space, the darkness now his ally. He moved silently towards her, his hand tightening around the knife. This was it. The moment he had been waiting for. But as he stood over her, ready to strike, he hesitated. He looked at her peaceful face and felt a twinge of guilt.

In that moment of hesitation, she stirred, her eyes fluttering open as she sensed his presence. For a split second, their gazes locked, and a wave of recognition washed over her face. She gasped, the realization dawning on her as she tried to scramble away in fear.