I was just about to walk around the corner when he did something I did not expect. He licked the blood off of his hand. He savored it. I could see his eyes grow wild while he looked again at the helpless victim lying at his feet. He began to look around him and as he did I was overwhelmed with the desire to help him.
My leg moved forward to take the step around the corner of the building, out into the fading light glowing from the street. His eyes darted to mine. Glorious, black eyes.
I took a slow deliberate step and raised my hands.
“I just want to check on the girl.” I spoke slowly and purposefully. I didn’t want to frighten him.
I took a few more steps when he straightened in a move so quick I had to blink to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. I froze.
“I’m not going to hurt you,” I whispered. “I am going to walk toward you.”
I took another step.
“I’m not going to touch you.” I worked at keeping my voice calm.