Hero’s a big fan of a popular mystery series. After the release of the sixth book, he begins to notice a pattern, and finds a secret subplot encoded in the previous five books. What he discovers seems to be a convoluted retelling of a real life cold case—Superhero’s disappearance—but the details are just a little off and a little too real.
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As the author packed up his last book, Hero hurried forward, clutching his book to his chest.
“Sorry, I’m just about done here.” Author glances up with a genial smile. “I can sign your book, but I’m afraid I don’t have time for much else.”
“Uh, yeah,” Hero coughed and set the book on the table, “that would be great. Thank you. I’m really sorry for being late. The train was behind and then I had to help this person—well, that doesn’t really matter—just, thank you.”
Author quirked a brow. In the time Hero had rambled, he’d already penned his signature across the title page.
“It’s not a problem for me, I assure you.” He slid the book back to Hero. “It’s always a pleasure to meet a fan, no matter how untimely.”
Hero snatched the book back, but lingered as Author tucked his pen back into his pocket. The man turned away from him and grabbed his bag from his chair.
Though he faced the other direction, he asked, “is there anything else I can do for you?”
“Just a quick question.”
“Go on.” The author urged, digging through his satchel.
“Why do you think that Supervillain’s innocent?”