I took a quick look behind us, and I saw a tall figure walking towards the gate. I retrieved my apartment key from my purse and ran upstairs as if it was Allen chasing me. The thought made me tremble, as I opened the door immediately and locked it quickly.

I checked my apartment to ensure everything was secure. I turned off the bedroom light and peeped out the blinds, but I didn't see the person hanging around outside. I grabbed a snack, sat on the sofa, turned on the television, and then called my parents to inform them about the new job.

"Hello."

"Hi, Mom. How are you and Dad doing? I got another part-time job today at the coffee caf� in the midtown area. I have a day shift, and I will be working my community center job in the afternoons."

"Hey, sweetie! That sounds awesome. Your dad and I have our ups and downs, but we always manage to keep things afloat and even find a little extra for a nice night out?maybe a movie or dinner. Speaking of which, it's about time you start helping us chip away at that grad school loan?. right?"

"Your dad mentioned you left a message about your car needing some repairs. I wish we could lend a hand with that, but we're still tied up with a few more payments on your loan. How about giving your brother a call? He might be able to pitch in for those repairs. We've got your back, even if it's different."

"Honestly, Mom, I'm not sure. I don't want to weigh you and Dad down with my troubles. I promise that once I land a full-time job, I'll pay you both back for the loan. By the way, have you heard from Bryce? I haven't caught up with him in a couple of months. I was swamped with exams and making sure I graduated."

"He called yesterday and asked about you. This would be the perfect time to call him to let him know you're okay and to ask if he can help you."

"Okay, Mom. I will call him. Where's dad?"

"He's asleep in his recliner, but I will tell him you called. He will call you tomorrow."

"OK, I will talk to you all tomorrow. I will call Bryce after I hang up with you. I you, guys. Goodnight."

"Goodnight, honey. We love you too."

I decided to give my brother a call, but it went straight to his voicemail. I left him a message that I was doing well and asked him to call me when he had time. I sat contemplating if I should have told my mom about Allen, but I didn't want to worry her. As I lay in bed, drifting on the edge of sleep, my mind couldn't help but wonder if the guy approaching the gate, was Allen.

What if he saw me sprinting up the stairs and decided to follow me to the building, knocking on every door until he found mine? Or worse, what if he was waiting outside, biding his time for me to step out? At that moment, I wished my car was up and running. I'd have parked behind the apartment or slipped out the gate just to check if Allen was lurking in the shadows. It felt like a scene straight out of a movie?one where curiosity and anxiety embraced in the dark.