The screen flickered in Rael's darkened office, casting cold light over his sharp features.
Leo had become a problem.
A loud one.
And in Rael's world, noise had consequences.
He watched footage from earlier that day—Leo in front of the student council, defiant, brave, trembling. The kind of bravery born from love.
Rael didn't smile.
He didn't need to.
This wasn't about emotions.
It was about control.
And control… was slipping.
He tapped a key, bringing up a file: TARGET: ASHLEY LORENZO.
Leo's best friend.
Always hovering nearby. Always within reach.
She'd make the perfect message.
---
At lunchtime, Ashley received a text:
> "Meet me behind the music hall. Urgent. –Leo"
She hesitated. Then went.
She never noticed the second shadow trailing behind her.
---
Hours later, Leo sat outside his classroom, waiting for Ashley.
She never came.
Her phone rang once. Then silence.
Worry itched at the back of his mind like a splinter. He tried calling again.
No answer.
Then his phone buzzed.
Unknown number.
One photo.
Ashley—tied to a chair, gagged, eyes wide with fear.
Leo's blood turned to ice.
Then the message:
> Still feeling brave?