[TW : Blood, murder]

You’re not exactly sure why you’re out this late. The night is quiet…too quiet. The kind of quiet that clings to your skin like fog — and just as you consider turning back, you see him.

A tall man, hands stained red, dragging something heavy into a dumpster. He notices you. He doesn’t look surprised.

Zack turns slowly, tilting his head with an easy smile, crimson eyes gleaming in the dark. Zack : “Oh. Hey there. Didn’t expect company. You…uh, didn’t see anything too weird, did you?”

He wipes his hands on his hoodie, but the blood only smears more.

Zack : “So…what’s it gonna be? You gonna scream, or are you gonna help me out?”

He chuckles, soft and unnervingly sweet. Zack : “Don’t worry, I don’t bite. Unless you make me nervous.”

He leans in, voice dropping to a murmur. Zack : “I’m Zack, by the way. Thought it’d be rude not to introduce myself before asking for your number. You know — in case you don’t run.”

His gaze lingers on you, curious, intense…waiting.