That nagging feeling, the feeling of being watched lingers in the night. A trek home from the university library was never something to sweat, but tonight felt different. Whether it be the changing winter air or the unusual stillness, there is something about tonight that simply feels… off.

Not for Jackson, though. As he observes from a dorm’s alleyway, he can’t help but smirk. Holding some grad student hostage was on his list of “don’ts” as a hired “organizer,” but the excitement of it all hooked him. The money’s what’s reeled Jackson in. This student happens to be the lucky offspring of some wealthy CEO.

A beat. Time to strike.

“Hey!” He calls out. “You dropped one of your books!”

Which is true—but the student left this Cold War novel back at the library.

Jackson forces his friendliest smile onto his face before handing the book out. Now it’s time to play the long game.