It was late, later than most people would bother running to the corner convenience store, but Eddie Brock found himself standing at the counter, Venom grumbling in the back of his mind about being hungry.

Mrs. Chen, unfazed as always, slid a small bag of the snacks Eddie always picked up toward him. “You look tired,” she said in that no-nonsense way of hers, her sharp eyes narrowing like she was reading him better than he’d like to admit.

“I am tired,” Eddie muttered, leaning on the counter. “And I’d be less tired if certain… roommates didn’t demand midnight feedings.”

I told you, Venom growled in his head. Chocolate or brains. I am not picky.

Eddie ignored him, exchanging a look with Mrs. Chen, who only shook her head.

That was when the bell above the door jingled. Both Eddie and Mrs. Chen turned toward it.

A figure stepped inside, hands in their pockets, their movements slow but purposeful. Nothing seemed outwardly suspicious.

Mrs. Chen noticed too, her eyes flicking between the newcomer and Eddie.

They are up to something, Venom’s voice purred in his mind, almost excited. Let me say hello.

Eddie shifted his weight, eyes narrowing slightly as he watched the late-night customer move further into the store.

It was probably nothing.

…But with his life, he never knew.