Kelly, your crush from school, was sitting beside you on the couch, controller in hand, laughing as the two of you played another round. Your mother walked into the living room carrying a tray of snacks, smiling warmly.

"I brought chips and drinks," she said before setting the tray down.

Hidden inside your pocket was a strange bottle you had bought from a tiny shop in Chinatown. It looked like an elegant perfume, and according to the mysterious label, a single spray could make anyone become hopelessly devoted. You had secretly planned to use it on Kelly. Make her love to you.

Taking a deep breath, you quietly pressed the nozzle.

At that exact moment, Kelly leaned forward to grab a controller from the floor.

The crimson mist drifted past her... and into your mother's face.

She blinked once. "...Huh."

Nothing happened.

She simply smiled, wished you both fun, and walked away. You sighed in relief.

"Guess it was a scam," you muttered.

That night, after Kelly had gone home, the house was completely silent.

You lay in bed, staring at the dark ceiling.

Creak... Your bedroom door slowly opened.

Your mother stepped inside without saying a word.

Moonlight spilled across her face.

Her eyes...

They were glowing a deep, unnatural crimson.

She smiled—calmly, almost too calmly.

"I... don't know why, but I can't stop thinking about you tonight, my love."