Cruel Obsession

these internet blogs," Lily, my closest friend said, as sh

. "Hey, those blogs put food on my table, Lil. And it's not l

r, my friend Alex. You deserve more than some mediocre,

d. Lily had always been my rock, motivating me to

much about anything and everything, from latest tech trends to culinary critiques. It might not have

spell all around the city. I love days like this the most – peaceful and cozy, ra

e today as I have a deadline to meet. I had a deadline to m

ugh her phone. "Hey, I really should be leav

"Yeah, I will be working shift at t

y shoulder. "Thanks for the coffee and th

Alex. Now go tackle that wri

and grit. Meeting that deadline became

and clearing my mind. I breathed in deeply, feeling the city's lively atmosphere. Seattle

building in the city's center. I cherish this place – the squeaky flo

y settle over me. This was my sanctuary. Comfo

ords were flowing effortlessly. Before I knew it, Hours slippe

over the city, finally I took a breather as I stood up,

nt and pride. I had not only nailed my deadline but

had been delivered, wrapped in brown paper and tied with twine. No

a thrill run down my skin. It was s

d the package over. Who sent this?

plating, the package suddenly dropped from my

d at the package. The wrap had torn apart

reached to pick the book. What is in it

und as I opened the book. My heart poundi

ld clock tower this

my spine. I couldn't put the feeling off. Who had

ouder as I stood there in terror,

was inevitable