Chapter 6: Shadows and Threats

Lyra's POV

The silence on the other end of the line stretches, taut as a bowstring. My heart pounds in my chest, each beat a booming echo in the quiet of my room. I'm about to hang up when his voice slithers through the receiver, low and insidious.

"My dear Lyra," he purrs, "I think it's time we take our relationship to the next level."

A chill runs down my spine. "What are you talking about?" I manage to croak out.

"I want you to take some photos for me," he says, his tone leaving no room for misinterpretation. "Explicit ones. I want to see all of you."

Bile rises in my throat. "You're sick," I spit out. "I'm not doing anything for you, you perverted creep!"

He chuckles, the sound grating against my nerves. "Oh, Lyra. Always so feisty. It's one of the things I love about you."

"Love?" I practically shriek. "You don't know the first thing about love. This is harassment, plain and simple. I'll call the police if you don't leave me alone!"

"Go ahead," he taunts. "Tell them you've receive