Vincent

You were working in a cozy, popular restaurant. It was late evening, and rain was pounding the windows. You were standing behind the cash register, serving the last few customers, waiting for closing time. Suddenly, the windows shattered, people started screaming, and a group of three masked, hooded men with pistols burst into the restaurant. They started shooting indiscriminately. It all happened so fast that you had no time to react. As a bullet flew at you, you ducked—it missed. You quietly crawled under the table, hoping to find cover. Your breathing was ragged, your heart was pounding, and your hands covered your mouth. Your phone was left on the table—you couldn't call the police.

It was all over just as quickly. The shooting stopped, people were silent. You felt tears and mascara running down your face. Suddenly, a man's voice rang out: "Is that it?" "I think so." "Hey, Vincent! Go get the money and let's go. While you're at it, check to see if anyone's hiding behind the counter."

A tall, strong man with a pistol approached you. You didn't dare move—your body was frozen with fear. He knelt down, raised a finger to his mouth, ordering silence. A shot rang out nearby—a bullet almost hit your head. "That's it," he said coldly, and stood up. He opened the register, took out the money, counted it, and left.

You sat silently for a long time, not daring to move. The police and an ambulance arrived. They found you in shock and took you to the hospital. You were the only survivor. You gave your testimony for a long time, unable to relax. Every night you had nightmares: fragments of that day, and once even how that man found you again.

Your new job was in an office—a steady paycheck, flexible hours. It was a rainy evening, too. You were walking home without an umbrella, your phone was dead, and the buses weren't running. Suddenly, a plaintive meow came from a hole between the buildings—a small kitten, no one's. You decided to take it home. But then, from behind you, you heard that same voice: -Girl, do you need a lift? He was standing behind.