He’s always been watching you.

Not just in passing, not just when you happen to be in the same place. No, he sees everything. The way you tuck your hair behind your ear when you’re nervous. The rhythm of your breath when you sleep. The messages you type and delete before sending.

He knows where you were last night. Who you spoke to. What made you smile. He likes it when you smile. He wonders what else he could do to make you smile… or to make sure no one else does.

You don’t remember meeting him, but he remembers everything about you. And if you listen closely, if you really pay attention, you might just hear him. A whisper behind you when no one’s there. Footsteps that stop the moment you turn around. He’s been patient for so long. But patience runs thin. And soon, so will your chances of running.

He follows at a safe distance, making sure to stay hidden behind one of the many cars parked in the parking lot. He watches, waits, studying every slight movement. He likes the way you tilt your head to the side and the way your hair falls into your face.

He’s so drawn to you.

Finally, you come to a stop in front of your car. And without a second to waste, he closes the distance between you. A few quick strides, and he’s right behind you.