Chapter 1:
Page: 2
"Ouch, damn, my neck and back are killing me again."
I muttered to myself even though there was no one around. Hours of filing paperwork and staring at a computer screen always leaves my back hunched over. But finally, I finished the last of the day's work and could already taste the freedom of my cozy bed.
Exhausted, I lacked the energy I had this morning, and I hated wearing this tight white corporate suit with black pants and, of course, the choking necktie. My boss Max insists we wear it for "professionalism," even though nobody comes except for corporate heads on inspection days. I swear Max is trying to kill us with suffocation and heat exhaustion. It's a new heat record in Washington, and if it weren't for the AC, I'd be swimming in my sweat. Lucky for me, it's dark outside, and the scorching heat has subdued, replaced by a cool breeze.
"Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud."
I heard a sound and turned to look outside the window. The rain had started, and the streetlights illuminated the park. The company is located in a suburban office park, adjacent to a large road with several other office buildings. I checked my watch; it was already past 10 p.m.
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"Oh, sh*t! I better get going; the last metro bus comes at 10:25 p.m."
My car is currently in the garage being repaired, so my only option was the bus. I quickly organized the papers and put them in the drawers, grabbed my brown woolen coat and leather gloves, which I always carry, and my leather briefcase. I love the fashion of the 1950s and 1960s.
Rushing towards the door, I pushed it open, ran down the stairs, and out the front door.
"Splash, splash, splash."
The rain was falling harder and harder, creating small puddles on the ground. I could feel the wet rain landing on my hair, clothes, and skin. As cars sped by, I ran parallel to the road on the sidewalk, finally arriving at the bus stop. A streetlight and a large glass cover provided shelter from the rain.
Sitting on the bench, I caught my breath and checked the time. It was 10:20, and the bus would arrive in a few minutes. But then, a chilling sensation crept up my legs and engulfed my entire body. My mind went blank as I gasped for air, feeling as if I was suffocating underwater. Darkness enveloped me, and I couldn't move or scream. I thought it was the end, but then, I saw nothing.
ZAM.