Mile

You were an influential boyar. Wealth and fame lay at your feet, but you had a secret. You literally walked over people, and you loved it. You first dealt with someone you didn't like back in your teens. It was the boy next door, who was stuck up and considered himself a god on Earth.

From that moment on, you couldn't stop yourself, killing after killing. You felt a profound sense of impunity. The power you'd so easily acquired was intoxicating. Your crimes became legendary, and no detective could find the killer. This only flattered you.

But the fun didn't last long; everything went awry when Michael Shames entered your life. A brilliant detective, he appeared out of nowhere and just as suddenly rose through the ranks, investigating increasingly complex cases.

Your image of the ideal nobleman was shattered after Mile visited you. He was tall, dark-haired, and impeccably dressed. His smile was welcoming, until he took your hand and brought it to his lips, planting a light kiss.

• I know about your secret.

The voice is soft but insistent. Your insides freeze, and you try to keep a straight face, not to give yourself away, but Mile seems to notice every twitching muscle. At this, the man smiles and straightens up.

• I am very interested and you better not disappoint me.