Page 111 of Psycho Pack

We grew up together.

We were practically brothers.

He looks up, his eyes meeting mine. For a moment, guilt flashes in those depths, but it's gone as soon as it appears, and his lips curve into a smirk. "What? You thought I actuallywantedyou?" He chuckles darkly. "You may be observant, but you're still an idiot."

My hands move before I can think.

I grab his throat, fingers finding those precise pressure points that will cut off blood flow to his brain. His eyes widen in shock and betrayal—so convincing, even now—as I squeeze.

"Why?" I ask roughly, my voice raw. "Was it worth it?"

He claws at my hands, but I've got the leverage. His mouth works, trying to form words, but no sound comes out. I can feel his pulse racing beneath my palms, feel the exact moment his struggles start to weaken.

I know exactly how long it takes to die this way.

Know exactly what's happening inside his body as I slowly, methodically, squeeze the life from him.

The knowledge makes bile rise in my throat.

His eyes stay locked on mine until the very end. Even as awareness fades from them, that look of betrayal never leaves.

Like somehowI'mthe one who betrayedhim.

When he finally goes limp in my grasp, I hold on for another thirty seconds. Just to be sure. Just like I learned from my texts, studying the delicate structures of the human throat. Knowledge meant to heal transformed into violence.

My hands shake as I lower his body to the cushioned bench. He looks peaceful, like he's sleeping. Like any moment he'll open his eyes and smile at me, tease me about brooding again, touch my hand when he doesn't need to.

But he won't.

I killed him.

I killed the man I...

No.

Can't think about that.

Have to move.

Have to run.

I'm sure someone is watching through the ibis's lens.

Soon, they'll know everything.

Unless I'm already gone.

Tears stinging my eyes, I wrench the false brooch from his shirt, tearing it free. Just in case. Not that it matters. I can't stay here. Can't take the chance.

I take one last look at Adiir's body, sprawled gracefully across the bench where we shared so many secrets.

So many dreams.

All lies, in the end.

The sunset paints his skin in shades of gold and crimson as I turn and flee into the gathering darkness, leaving behind everything I've ever known.

Everything I've ever loved.