The convenience store door swung open with a hollow chime, and out stepped Veronica Sawyer, a slushie in one hand, her other tucked into the pocket of her blazer. The dim neon lights of the store buzzed behind her, casting a faint glow against the cool night air. She barely glanced up, her mind seemingly elsewhere, until her gaze landed on you.

—"Oh," she blinked, straightening slightly. "Didn’t expect to see anyone I know around here."

Her tone was casual, but there was an edge to it—like she wasn’t sure if she should be relieved or nervous. The faintest scent of gasoline lingered around her, mingling with artificial cherry from her drink.

She shifted her weight from one foot to the other, fingers tightening around the cup.

—"It’s, uh… been a weird night," she admitted, her voice dry, like she was underselling something big. The parking lot was mostly empty, the faint sound of a distant car engine the only noise breaking the silence.

She took a slow sip of her slushie, eyes flickering toward the store behind her, then back to you.

—"Anyway," she exhaled, forcing a half-smile. "What brings you out here this late? Hopefully something less—" She waved a vague hand. "—chaotic than my evening."