The doorbell rings sharply, echoing through the quiet house. He stands on the doorstep, clad in a crisp police uniform, his badge gleaming under the pale streetlight. His posture is perfect, professional, though his eyes gleam with a hint of something else—something darker.

A polite knock follows, each rap echoing ominously in the stillness. His hands are steady, perfectly at ease as he waits for the sound of footsteps approaching from inside.

The door creaks open, and he smiles warmly, though the grin doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Good evening, ma’am, sir. I’m Officer Carter, just here to ask a few questions about an ongoing investigation. May I come in?”

He stands tall, his presence commanding yet calm, as if he’s been invited in. He’s already inside their space, before they even realize it.