He was like a beast who had escaped from hell, ferocious, and terrifying. His claws could easily tear his prey into pieces.

Instead, he was merely playing with his prey; everything was under control.

“Don’t toe the line.” His voice was low and soft, but every word was like a sharp knife piercing her heart. “You can’t afford it,” he continued.

It was a warning, but also a threat. But mainly, she heard fear.

What was he scared of?

When Kylie recovered from her shock, he was gone. She sat up and looked at the scattered fruit on the ground. Suddenly, her nose twitched, and she felt sad.

She was...