*Chapter 6: The Host*
Malcolm Blackwood smiled as Emily approached, his eyes gleaming with an otherworldly intensity. He was tall, with chiseled features and jet-black hair that fell across his forehead. Emily felt a shiver run down her spine as he extended his hand, his fingers brushing against hers.
"Welcome to Ravenswood Manor," Malcolm repeated, his voice low and smooth. "I'm so glad you could make it."
Emily tried to smile, but her lips felt stiff. "Thank you for inviting me," she said, trying to sound casual.
Malcolm's eyes seemed to bore into hers, as if searching for something. "I'm glad you're here," he said again, his voice dripping with sincerity. "I think you'll find the evening...enlightening."
As Malcolm spoke, Emily noticed the other guests milling around the room. There were about a dozen people, all dressed in formal attire, but they seemed...off. Their smiles seemed forced, and their laughter seemed to ring hollow.
The butler appeared with a tray of drinks, and Malcolm handed Emily a glass of red wine. "Let's mingle," he said, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I think you'll find our little gathering quite...interesting."
As Emily took a sip of her wine, she felt a strange sensation, like the room was spinning around her. She looked around, trying to get her bearings, but everything seemed to blur together.
Suddenly, Malcolm's voice was in her ear, his breath cold against her skin. "Let's play a game, Emily," he whispered. "A game of shadows and secrets. Are you ready to play?"
To Be Continued...