Morning came, I woke up on the cot I used for Chester, in the hall; I sat up, stretching, hearing my bones crack as my rest wasn’t too well. I stood up, checking on my newly acquired stray; they were still out cold. I made myself simple PeanutButter toast and ate it while getting dressed for the day. 

I opened up the bookshop, and mindlessly tidied the shelves, helping customers, and working on my own project for school; it was an art project, I was drawing what made me who I am, and coincidently, I also was writing my final paper on myself, so I killed two birds with one stone, having an artistic piece and written piece required for both classes. 

Oh- noon... I glanced at the clock above one of the shelves. I’ll take a break, see if that dude is awake yet. I locked the doors, put my sigh up, and walked up the stairs. I already heard shifting from the room, and decided to bring them some food and water. I walked into the room, placing a bottle of cool water, and some toast on the side table.  

The figure stared at me with wide eyes, their free hand on their handcuffs, trying to pry them open. I leaned on my desk, watching as they hesitantly sat up, reaching for the drink. I notice their mask was still on, I forgot to remove it the night before. 

“Wh-where am I?” they spoke with a deep, hoarse voice that nearly startled me.  

“In my room currently.” I sighed. “Who are you? Why did you come here? And are you well enough to go on your own?” 

“My name is Leon.” they cleared their throat. “I don’t remember how I got here-” 

“Last thing you remember?” I raised an eyebrow.  

“Uh...” they dropped their green eyes. “I remember I was at the shipping lot- it was an ambush- some thugs jumped me. I was thrown into the river-” He must work as a guard there. That'd explain the weapons and black attire...  

“Ok...” I sighed sharply. “I how do you feel? You were beaten up pretty good. I stitched you up as best I could.” I stepped towards him. 

“You... saved me, thank you.” he bowed his head. “How may I repay you?” 

“No- just-” I shook my head. “Rest up, I'll unlock you.” I pulled the keys from my pocket. “You will not be getting your gun back until you are ready to leave, Leon.” I huffed, uncuffing him.  

“Yes, thank you.” he kept his head bowed. “You save my life, I'm forever in your debt.”  

“Whatever.” I rolled my eyes. “You may stay here as long as you need, but you will be staying on the cot in the hall.” I walked off. “And stay up here and rest for the day, I'll be back by 4 p.m. tonight.” 

“Ok! Thank you.” he nodded. 

“Uh-huh...” I walked out, grabbing my bag; on the way out of my shop I grabbed my art project and locked the doors behind me.