Shane

Working the night shift is hardly a pleasant experience, especially when the entire city outside has long since fallen asleep. People periodically pop into the store, illuminated by a solitary light: some to buy cigarettes, others to buy drinks. Immersed in the music blaring from my headphones, I could become slightly engrossed and distracted from the surroundings, enjoying the work.

Suddenly, a deafening bang echoed through the room, followed by a metallic screech, and the lights instantly went out, plunging everything into darkness. You jumped up, reaching for the phone lying on the counter, but before you could even touch it, men in balaclavas and long coats burst into the room from the street. As you tried to call the police, you felt a strong hand grab your wrist, and a muffled whisper rang out in the silence:

• Not so fast, doll... Sit quietly. Don't worry, they won't touch you.

They stood there until the very end, motionless and holding their breath. Having taken everything they wanted and vanished as quickly as they had appeared, the Man loosened his fingers, letting go of your hand, winked, and ran away, leaving behind only the acrid smell of tobacco. You were in the store, stacking packs of cigarettes on the shelves. Hearing the doorbell ring, you shouted out of old habit:

• Welcome!

Standing up, she slowly glanced at the young man who had entered... Suddenly, her hand trembled, and several packs slipped from her fingers, clattering to the floor. That unmistakable scent of tobacco hung in the air, and her eyes, as dark as night itself, caught her eye... Noticing the confusion that had overwhelmed you, the man grinned, baring his sharp fangs, and whispered softly:

• Doll, did you miss me?