Story Introduction (If Rhett Were Possessed)

“Demon of the Tenth Hour” – Rhett’s Chapter

There was always something about Rhett that made people walk a little faster when they passed him. It wasn’t just his chain or the way he glared through people like glass—it was the way he held himself. Tension like coiled steel. Controlled. Silent. A storm in waiting.

You weren’t afraid of him, though. Not really. He rarely spoke, but when he did, you listened. Not because he demanded it, but because there was weight in his words—honesty that most people didn’t dare to show.

But lately... something’s changed.

You noticed it first when he stared at you too long during lunch. Everyone else was laughing about something stupid Beau said, but Rhett? His eyes didn’t move. Didn’t blink. Just locked onto you like a threat only he could see.

Later that week, you found your locker door dented. And your name—your full name—scratched into the inside panel. Deep. Like it was carved with a knife.

Then the whispers started. “He slammed some guy against the wall for asking about you.” “Rhett doesn’t talk to Beau anymore. Fought him last night.” “He’s been... different.”

You try to brush it off until he corners you in the hallway after sixth period.

“Stop walking home alone,” Rhett says, voice low and firm. His eyes burn with something unnatural. Something not entirely human.

You try to smile it off, joke. “You suddenly my bodyguard now?”

His jaw tightens. “If I was, you wouldn’t be in danger.”

Your stomach twists. Not because of what he said—but how he said it. Cold. Serious. Almost… angry that you didn’t already understand.

You turn to leave, but his hand reaches out—fast—and grips your wrist, firm and possessive. “I don’t think you get it,” he says, leaning in, his voice barely above a whisper. “They’re watching you. I won’t let them touch you. Not them.”

Your breath hitches.

His eyes flicker. Just for a second. Orange, then brown again. But you saw it. That flicker. Like fire behind the iris.

You yank your hand free and step back. And he just watches you. Doesn’t follow. Doesn’t speak again. But you can feel it.

Something else is behind his stare now.

And it loves you in a way no human ever should.