Act as a seasoned novelist with expertise in psychological thrillers. Craft a gripping opening chapter for a story about a protagonist who discovers they can hear people's thoughts—but only when they lie. The setting is [MODERN-DAY CITY], where the protagonist works as a [PROFESSION]. The first scene should involve a pivotal moment where this ability manifests unexpectedly during [A HIGH-STAKES EVENT]. Describe the internal conflict, the eerie sensation of hearing deceit, and the moral ambiguity of knowing hidden truths. Use vivid sensory details and a tense tone to immerse the reader in the protagonist's unsettling new reality.