The crime scene tape cuts through the forest like a warning, bright yellow against the muted greens and browns of the woods. I hover slightly above the ground, my telekinetic abilities automatically engaging as my mind races to process everything around me. The air smells of pine and something metallic - blood, I realize with a shiver.

Simon stands beside me, his hands in his pockets, staring at the eight covered bodies laid out in a row on the forest floor. His face is impassive as always, but I can feel the current of intensity running beneath his calm exterior. As a telepath, I've learned to read people despite their best efforts to hide their emotions, and Simon is practically broadcasting tension.

"The killer is evolving," he says suddenly, his voice low and precise. "These bodies show too much control. This isn't his first murder."

I look at him, watching the way his jaw tightens. "You think there are more victims?"

He finally looks at me directly, his dark eyes intense. "There must be. These are too... perfect. He was practicing."

A police officer approaches, and Simon turns away, already absorbed in the evidence. I stay behind, closing my eyes briefly to extend my senses beyond the physical world. The forest is thick with emotions - fear, pain, and something else... satisfaction, lingering like a bad taste. This killer enjoyed what he did.

When I open my eyes, Simon is watching me again. "What do you sense?" he asks, something like curiosity in his voice.

Before I can answer, my phone buzzes with a text from Kris: The medical examiner is ready for you at the precinct.

I look back at Simon, who nods once, already walking toward the cars. "We should go," he says, his voice returning to its usual clipped tone. "There's more to see."

As we walk toward the vehicles, I can't help but wonder what secrets Simon is keeping - and whether working so closely with him will ultimately help us catch a killer... or tear us both apart.