“It’s not just his crimes that intrigue us,” I say, gesturing toward the screen. “It’s his ability to remain untouchable. Ghost is not like the average offender we encounter in criminal psychology. He doesn’t act out of desperation or recklessness. His motives aren’trooted in impulse or emotional instability. Every move he makes is deliberate, methodical, and—most unsettling of all—purposeful.”
“What sets Ghost apart,” I continue, “is his need for control. Not just over individuals but over entire narratives. He crafts his actions like a playwright, ensuring every piece of the story serves his end goal. And what is that goal? Power. Influence. Not through brute force, but through psychological domination. He doesn’t just break laws; he breaks people.”
And I’m one of them.
The image on the screen changes again, this time to a crime scene photo (tastefully blurred) but the emotion it evokes is undeniable. A note left behind is the focal point, scrawled in neat handwriting:Actions have consequences.
“Messages like these are what make Ghost truly unique,” I explain. “He communicates not just with his victims but with society as a whole. He knows how to manipulate fear, curiosity, and even admiration. He’s not content with staying hidden in the shadows. He wants to be seen but only on his terms.”
I pause to take a deep breath. “And that is what makes him unlike any other psychopath we’ve studied. His intelligence, his adaptability, and his mastery of psychological manipulation elevate him to a level that defies traditional categorization. Ghost isn’t just a criminal; he’s a phenomenon.”
The screen fades to black, and I turn back to the audience, my gaze steady. “But we must be careful not to confuse fascination with glorification. To study someone like Ghost is to understand the dangers of unchecked power and the consequences of failing to see the warning signs before it’s too late. He’s a case study in what happens when brilliance and darkness collide. Thank you.”
The room erupts into applause, though it feels distant, muted against the pounding of my heart. I step back from the podium, my hands trembling as I clasp them together.
Ghost doesn’t move. His gaze lingers on me, his smirk fading into something more serious, more dangerous. For a moment, I think he might say something else, might push me further, but then he steps back into the shadows, disappearing into the crowd as if he was never there.
CHAPTER 42
GENEVA
The applause fades into the ambient hum of conversation as I step off the stage, my chest still tight with adrenaline. Dr. Melanie Corbin is waiting at the bottom of the stairs, her sharp heels clicking against the floor as she strides toward me. Her expression is warm but laced with a touch of urgency that I’ve come to recognize as normal for her.
“Geneva,” she says, her tone brisk but genuine. “That was phenomenal. I don’t think anyone in this room blinked for the last thirty minutes. You had them completely captivated.”
“Thank you, Dr. Corbin,” I reply, letting out a small breath of relief. “I’m glad it resonated. But I couldn’t have done it without the support of this department.”
“Don’t be modest,” she says, waving a hand dismissively. “You earned that ovation.” Her expression darkens as she lowers her voice. “Though I could’ve done without that man interrupting you. Who was that?”
I keep my expression calm, though my pulse quickens at themention of Ghost. “I was going to ask you the same thing, but I figured he must have been cleared to attend if he’s here.”
Dr. Corbin huffs, crossing her arms briefly. “Well, if he was cleared, he’s got a lot of nerve pulling that kind of stunt in the middle of your keynote. Honestly, it’s insulting. Not just to you but to the event itself.”
“I handled it,” I say, offering her a reassuring smile. “It’s not the first time someone’s tried to make themselves the center of attention during a talk. I doubt it’ll be the last.”
“Still,” she mutters, glancing toward the crowd as if she could spot him among the sea of faces. “I’ll be having a word with security about this. The last thing we need is more disruptions like that. You deserve better.”
“Thank you,” I say, my tone genuine, though my stomach sours at her indignation. The last thing I want is anyone digging into who Ghost is, or why he’s here. “What’s next? I assume there are people I need to meet?”
Her demeanor shifts instantly, irritation giving way to her usual professionalism. “Yes, of course. There are some key benefactors who’ve been dying to meet you. Let’s start with Daniel Cross.” She gestures toward a table near the stage where a group of well-dressed individuals are deep in conversation.
I follow her lead, stepping into the rhythm of handshakes, smiles, and carefully crafted small talk. Daniel Cross is charming and affable, quick to praise my work and the impact of the university. Luna Joya is equally engaging, gushing about the inspiration she felt during my speech.
But even as I move from one introduction to the next, I can’t shake the memory of Ghost’s smirk, his voice cutting throughthe room with unsettling ease. His presence lingers like a ghost, unseen but impossible to ignore.
“Geneva,” Dr. Corbin says, pulling me back to the present. “There’s one more person I’d like you to meet.”
She gestures toward the bar, where a tall man stands with a glass tumbler in hand. His tailored suit fits perfectly, and his air of authority is unmistakable.
“That is Victor Stanton,” she says, her voice lower. “He’s one of our most influential benefactors. I think you’ll find him interesting.”
I meet Stanton’s gaze as we approach, his dark eyes sharp and appraising. He smiles, extending his hand.
“Dr. Andrews,” he says smoothly. “Your reputation precedes you. That was an impressive speech.”
“Thank you, Mr. Stanton.” I take his hand. His grip is firm, his presence commanding. “Your support makes work like mine possible, and I’m grateful for it.”
“The pleasure is all mine,” he says, his voice rich with a practiced charm. “Your insights into criminal psychology were fascinating. Especially your analysis of Ghost.” He releases my hand with a measured smile. “It’s rare to see someone distill such complexity into something so captivating. You certainly have a way with words.”
