#technically an edit

      For all practical purposes, he is in a shopping center on the 5th floor behind the 3rd cashier of a supermarket. No one… no one else is there, no one he can call for help, but there is a clattering of tumbling metal wear further into the shop. Far enough that he has some time before it thinks look here. Past his hiding spot is an elevator, only a short sprint away… one he can make surely. 

    Noland clutches the knife, not daring to whisper but wishing with all his might. Then he runs. He sneakers thud not against the tiled floor. His hand feels cold as it fumble for the button, missing at first then pressing both rapidly. There is a growling from behind hime, a wet screeching sound of edges on the floor. Noland doesn’t turn around, not when he feels the monsters breath, not when a long limb wrapped around his throat pulling his back or when he falls but does’t hit a surface.

    Everything is ringing, but the first thing Noland hears is the people. There are never people. The floor is cold and slick. Against closed eyes he sees the harsh glare of fluorescent lights. There is also a hand on his shirt. He shoves it away, scrambling backwards as fast as he can. He is trembling all over. None of what he is saying is coming through as clear words, but the hand stays away. 

    A feminine voice is saying things in a calm tone that Noland eventually recognizes as a breathing exercise. “Breath…in… and out.” Some of Noland’s stutters must have been understood because the voice tells him: “one is going get you.” He sobs in reply. The person keeps speaking, but Noland has started counting his breaths and wrapping his head around what he needs to do next.

      “Tell me where I am.” Noland says calmly when he can.  “Everence shopping center, 12 street, lenik.” The words glossed over Noland’s ears. “The 5th floor?” “Yes.” It is different with the bright lights and people pausing their browsing to watch the commotion, but Noland’s heart sank with bitter understanding. He shakily gets up to his feet, leaning against a central railing. “I have to…” The elevator arrives and he smiles weakly. “My ride is here.” The woman didn’t smile back, looking him over. He knows she knows what he does, he can’t let go of the rail. 

      “My name is Melenie Hark.” She offers her hand. “Your still unsteady on your feet, i don’t want to catch you a second time. What is your name?” He looks at her hand. “Noland March. I… I know this is looks bad, but… can I be alone?” “Alright, I’ll help you get somewhere less crowded.” Noland looked at her, but she did not budge. He takes her hand and with her help gets into the elevator. 

the corriN harmonia Gropius, what a fine specimen

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