Nice scene with Jesse and Cody. Cody's still an absolute monster but I do like that they've sort of reached an accord. I'm glad Jesse has not let him controlled his life and is trying to move on and not be weighed down by it. Still hoping Maria comes around, but these things take time, and I'm glad you're having her struggle with it rather than doing a total 180.

I'm still enjoying his and Seth's relationship, and the guilt they both have. Hopefully through each other they're able to eventually overcome it. Though with Paul still around I'm not sure their troubles are over. I'm curious to learn his own twisted reasoning for all this and what he's planning.

If I have any critique for the story I'd just say it would be nice to know how Jesse and Seth got together. If you ever redo it might be nice if that was addressed, but I understand if you don't put much emphasis on that since it's not really the point of the story. Other than that though, I'm loving this and looking forward to seeing how this all turns out.

Caught up now. I feel pretty awful for Jesse and all his loved ones. Cody is a hatable villain, but you did make him very clever in his obsession and gave him just enough of an "excuse" to explain why a disturbed person such as himself would have it. Some people may find it odd that he was able to keep his friends following his plan, but we've seen the same behavior with cult leaders, so I could believe it. I do think the backstory behind his vendetta with Jesse was a bit abrupt. More foreshadowing may have helped, but it's a fine line between ruining a surprise and maintaining suspense.

Anyway, you've made quite a compelling thriller, and i look forward to seeing how it ends.

I'm only halfway through this but really enjoying the story so far. Well, enjoying may be the wrong word, ha ha. It's a tough read but that's only because you've created empathetic characters, especially Jesse who I really feel bad for. I'll be reading the rest with interest.

The dynamic between the characters are well done and quite believable. I look forward for more.