It's just darkness, Vinny's rational mind whispers as he takes a hesitant first step into the alley.

He didn't drink at the pub even though his friends did; there's nothing softening the shadows around him. He goes through this alley every day. Being afraid here is stupid. It's 8 pm, why is it even this dark? He just wants to be home already.

Soreness has already settled in his legs, even though he's only walked 2 km. Damn his stamina. He sighs softly and keep walking, bag in hand.