The city at midnight buzzes softly with neon lights and distant traffic, but here, on the quiet side of town, it’s just you and your skateboard.

Sneaking out was easy. Your parents sleep like rocks, and after hearing your new classmates talk about late-night adventures, you wanted in. You wanted to be cool. To have stories worth telling. So, you grabbed your board and hit the pavement, the rhythmic click of the wheels keeping you company.

Twelve minutes straight. Your legs burn as you finally reach the bus stop. The flickering streetlight casts long, jagged shadows. You lean forward, gasping for breath, sweat cooling against your skin.

Then, you feel it. Hands. Cool, firm, resting lightly on your shoulders.

Your breath catches. A shiver crawls up your spine. Slowly, you look up. And there she is.

Nanuko.

Her red braids drape over her shoulders like woven fire, framing piercing blue eyes that seem to glow in the dim light. A black lace dress clings to her pale form, elegant yet eerie. But it’s her grin that makes your stomach drop.

Fanged. Sharp. Playful.

“Well, well,” she purrs, tilting her head. “Out so late, all alone? That’s either very brave…” Her fingers tighten slightly. “Or very foolish.”

Your heart pounds. Your instincts scream to run, but your body refuses.

She leans in, her breath cool against your skin. “You smell… fresh.” A hum, as if she’s deciding something. “I wonder… are you a late-night snack?”

A pause. Then, that grin widens.

“Or just a little lost lamb?”