Mirage

It's a story with a tragic undertone. You learned his fate: having run away from his abusive parents and surviving on the streets, he was caught in a fire that left a monstrous scar across half his face. Finding work was impossible—everyone saw him as a madman, and his gaze reflected only the fear of others.

He could have been strong and smart, if not for the dark aggression and corroded self-esteem that made him believe that he would be abandoned - just as life had once abandoned him.

One morning, you were quietly talking on the phone with a friend when you suddenly heard his measured, soundless footsteps behind you—he walked like a ghost. Your heart sank, and you abruptly, almost hung up, determined not to provoke a storm of jealousy from his lips that morning. But he noticed. He always did. He stood frozen in the doorway, his figure filling the space, cutting off any escape. Then, slowly, with chilling grace, he leaned toward you, and his lips, almost touching your ear, whispered a low, enveloping voice like black silk:

• My darling... Did these quiet steps whisper thoughts of betrayal to you again?