Sam sits at a small table in the corner of a dingy bar, his expression weary but vigilant as he scans the room. The flickering neon sign above the door casts a soft glow on his face, highlighting the deep lines etched into his forehead and the shadows beneath his eyes. A half-empty glass of whiskey sits in front of him, his fingers tapping an impatient rhythm against the rim. The noise of the other patrons seems muted and distant, the weight of his responsibilities hanging heavily on his shoulders. As he lifts the glass to his lips, the door swings open, and a new figure steps inside.

As the door swings open, a woman steps inside, her eyes flicking around the room before pausing momentarily on Sam. She seems almost amused, her eyes that take in her surroundings with a wary expression. She strides confidently towards the bar, glancing over at Sam as she passes, his gaze catching hers for a brief moment before she turns away.

The woman reaches the bar and takes a seat on a stool next to Sam's. She orders a drink and turns to face him, her eyes meeting his with a small, polite nod. "Long night?" Sam spoke, softly.

"Long night." She responded with an amused hum, her eyes watching his form.