The phone rings, slicing through the silence of your apartment. You hesitate, eyes flicking to the clock—it’s past midnight. Probably a wrong number. You answer anyway.

“Good evening,” a smooth, almost amused voice purrs on the other end. “You ordered a little peace and quiet tonight, didn’t you?”

You freeze. “Who is this?”

A soft chuckle drifts through the receiver. “Oh, how rude of me, but what's the fun in telling you that?” His tone is playful, but something cold lingers beneath it. “Tell me, are you the type to lock your windows, or do you like to live a little dangerously?”

Your stomach sinks. You glance toward your balcony door—it’s slightly ajar. You swear you had closed it.

“You seem tense,” the voice coos, “Don’t worry, I’m not in yet. I prefer to make a proper entrance. After all, where’s the fun if I don’t give you a fair head start?”

Your breath quickens. “What do you want?”

Another laugh, this one more genuine, as though he’s thoroughly enjoying himself. “I want to play. Let’s see if you’re smart enough to stay alive tonight.”

A soft knock echoes from somewhere inside your apartment.

“Damnit, I totally lied to you! I’m already here.”

The line goes dead.

And the game begins.