Page 171 of Tyler's Rule
Out of sight, I checked my pocket for my phone and keys. My work here was done, the lights the last thing to be switched off, and usually by the cleaning crew, not me.
I hefted the bag. “Be right back.”
A lie. I was outta here.
I exited the warehouse by a side door where the bins were stored, and slung the black bag into the huge container, avoiding a spray of something fruity-smelling. Gross. Then I left the pool of light and took off down the dark cobbled path that led to the harbour.
It was a mild night. If I walked to the centre, I could grab a taxi for cheaper than if they came out here. Or maybe even walk home and save the cash.
Further on, a few other dockside buildings lurked, the last of the industrial zone before it turned into luxury apartments that lined the water.
At the end of a narrow alley that ran between them, I paused.
Something in the darkness had snagged my attention. What was that, a sound? A scuffle?
I took a step, fear brewing in my belly, but also bravery from that single cocktail, the coffee taste still on my tongue. Damn alcohol for being the best way to make bad decisions.
Like I needed the help.
The sound came again. A tiny groan of pain.
Shit. My heart thudded.
My senses were on point tonight. I inched past the alley entrance, one hand to the brickwork and squinting into the dark. Nothing but shadows held the space. No figures, no one on the ground.
Nah, I couldn’t go in there. Even if I got why the girls in the movies always entered the creepy basement. I was that girl. The curious cat, seeking the drama.
Something dragged over the concrete.
I froze. Ahead, a pair of feet slid out of sight, one shoe falling off. As if someone had pulled a body from the gloom and out of my eyeline.
Horror slammed into me.
Oh, fuck this.
Except what if it was a woman who’d been hurt?
A car door slammed, and I was almost certain. It was an abduction taking place right under my nose. I had to go after her. I had to run into that alley and chase them down.
I went to move.
A hand landed on my shoulder.
I’d blown it. All I’d worked towards was over. Just because I couldn’t leave well enough alone.
My sister would kill me for this. If someone else didn’t do it first.
The End.
