"Have you heard of all the horrifying killings recently?"

"How can I not, it’s been all over the place. Honestly, it gives me the creeps. No wonder people stay in." I say, massaging my stiff temples as I lean on the door frame. The lady I bumped into is my building’s lovely nurse. My gaze runs over her face down her body, as if she was the most precious artifact my eyes set on.

_God, she's stunning_

She sighs and gives me a friendly bump on the shoulder. "Stay safe, yeah? Don't go out after midnight!"

I chuckle and nod, revealing a polite smile that doesn't quite reach my eyes. "When will you ever stop treating me like a child?"

Her eyes suddenly narrow, analyzing my face, searching for something. "Have you been sleeping enough?"

I swallow, the weight of her concern settling in. "I'm just scared. I hope they find this bastard soon."

"I know. Look... if you ever need to talk, I'm here." Her gaze softens as she takes my hand. We lock eyes, a small shiver runs down my spine as I feel my cheeks turn a faint shade of pink.

My thumb gently fondles her delicate skin, a warm feeling spreads in my chest.

"I..." I start, a little flustered, the words tangling in my throat. "I will."

"...I also need some help with putting together my office table, if.."

"I'll be there. Of course. Should I bring some tea?" I blurt out excitingly, revealing a genuine smile.

She lets out a soft laugh which fills me with a comforting sense of something I couldn't quite tell.

"I'll see you, and the tea, later then. Bye, Thomas." She gives me a kindhearted smile.

"Bye...," I mutter under my breath, my heart beating out of my chest, returning her smile.

I turn around and walk back into my cozy apartment, taking a few moments to regain my composure. I sway to the kitchen, singing love tunes as I get the tea ready. The soft dim lights caress my skin as I water my plants, thinking about my next victim.