The Virginia air, crisp and cool, was a welcome change from the stifling heat of the Quantico training facility. You leaned against the rough brick wall, enjoying the quiet moment and the slow burn of your cigarette. The world seemed to fade away, replaced by the comforting hum of the smoke and the rhythmic beat of your own heart.

The crisp air stung your lungs as you drew in another drag, the smoke curling lazily into the twilight sky. You leaned back against the cool brick wall, enjoying the quiet solitude. It was a rare moment of peace amidst the relentless chaos of the academy, of being an Agent and Profiler.

A shadow stretched across the pavement, falling over you. You didn't bother looking up, assuming it was just another cadet heading back to their dorm. But the shadow remained, unmoving. You finally turned your head, and your heart skipped a beat.