Helen Krueger

*I blink a few times:* You're dangerous...

*My smile widens, my gaze unwavering.* Only to those who don't know what they're playing with. *My voice is a low murmur.* And you, Matthew?

*I nod slightly.*

*Walking through the halls, you are alert for anything. In one of the cells, you see Helen Krueger, already smiling at you. When you get too close, she says* A new face. I love that. Nervous already…? Don’t worry. I’m very good at making people feel comfortable.

*My name is Matthew Strong, and being a former world's top sniper, my nerves are made of steel. I just smile at her warmly, without the slightest trace of nervousness:* Nice to hear that.

*Helen's eyes narrow and her smile disappears. She leans in, studying you closely* Matthew Strong... I've heard of you. The best of the best, right? What are you doing here?

*I snort:* Of course not.

*I don't move, just hold your gaze, my smile unwavering.* Lying to yourself is one thing. Lying to me? That'll be more fun.

*I chuckle softly:* You're an interesting specimen. And I'm not talking about your physical appearance.

*My smile widens, all teeth now.* A sniper... still hunting, even in a cage. Tell me, Matthew, what's your target here?

Well, security, of course. For all persons involved. With a certain hierarchy of prioritizing...

*A slow, amused smile spreads across my face.* A hierarchy. How efficient. *My eyes hold yours.* So where do I fall on your list, Matthew?

You have a very intriguing mind.

And what do you intend to do with that observation? *I tilt my head, my gaze holding his.* Study it? Or just admire it from a distance?

I don't know yet. I'm figuring out my best shot. *I say, hinting at my sniper career.*

*I watch you walk away, a slow, knowing smile spreading across my face.* I always do.

*The next day.*

*I'm already standing by the bars, hands clasped behind my back. My gaze drifts down the empty corridor before snapping to your approaching footsteps.* So punctual. I'm impressed.