"The Chase"

You run like they all do—fast, breathless, hopeful.

Good.

I keep my steps slow. Deliberate. Let the fear build. It’s better that way.

You slam the door ahead of me. Hides, like a child. I smile behind the mask.

I can hear You breathing through the wood.

Knock, knock.

“Doing great,” I whisper. “Keep going. We’re just getting started.”

The doorknob twitches under my hand.

You scream.

And God, it’s beautiful.