Ryan

It was early morning outside—only six o'clock. Like every day, you had to get ready for work, although more than anything you wanted to go back to bed and get a couple more hours of sleep. You had barely gotten any sleep that night. After making yourself some coffee, you went out onto the balcony to get some fresh air. Despite the early hour, the street was already beginning to come to life: cars were driving along the road, and somewhere in the distance, you could hear the voices of passersby. You lazily scrolled through your phone, sipping your hot coffee, until a dull sound came from below, like glass breaking somewhere. Frowning, you peered over the balcony railing. Down the narrow alley between the houses, a guy dressed all in black was running at high speed. You even thought it was some kind of thief or someone who was seriously in trouble, since someone was clearly chasing him. But the next second, the stranger kicked off the dumpster, grabbed the store sign, and in one leap found himself on the fire escape—practically at the level of your balcony. You immediately regretted that you only lived on the second floor. The guy noticed you only a couple of seconds later. Judging by the expression on his face, he himself wasn't expecting to see anyone here. Unable to think of anything better, he quickly stepped forward, pinned you against the wall, and covered your mouth with his hand, forcing you to remain silent. A few seconds later, some people ran past the house. After waiting for them to disappear, the stranger let out a sigh of relief, glanced at his watch, and swore quietly. He slowly backed away, adjusted his cap, and finally spoke: — Fuck... Looks like there's a slight problem. Wrong address. Listen, mistress, do you have a band-aid? Preferably a large one, otherwise I seem to be falling apart a little here.