The side street he chose to mail the card from was busy, filled with people and hopping businesses. Located in the antiques “district,” if one could call it that, it reminded him of places his ex-wife liked to go and spend his money. He hated the cozy atmosphere and everyone in it on principle.
As he opened the flap on the blue mailbox and dropped the cards inside, a woman pushing a baby stroller walked by. He gave her a quick once-over, smiling with enough appreciation that she blushed. She smiled back, even looking over her shoulder at him once she was past.
If you knew I saw you as a piece of meat, that I fantasize about all the ways I could make you bleed, how loud you’d scream when I cut you, I bet you’d run for your life. He kept a pleasant expression on his face as he headed down the sidewalk in the opposite direction.
He considered the card he’d mailed as he made his way to where he’d parked. He’d waited years to start this game, patiently biding his time until the voice inside his head, the one that drove him, told him was strong enough to win against the man he considered a worthy opponent. Finally, he was ready. He was taking a risk, reaching out like this, but even if they could trace the letter and pinpoint from where it’d been mailed, this street was so busy there was no way anyone would remember him.
“I hope you’re ready, Chase Hudson. This is going to be our best anniversary yet.”