62: Show the way - Part 2

By the time closing hour rolled around, Liam was exhausted—both physically and mentally. He locked up the shop, waved goodbye to Lucas, and headed toward his bike.

The cool evening air brushed against his skin, offering a small reprieve from the heat that had built up over the day. All Liam could think about was getting home, collapsing onto his bed, and maybe indulging in some comfort food.

But just as he reached his bike, a voice called out behind him.

"Excuse me!"

Liam turned to see a teenager, maybe fifteen or sixteen years old, jogging toward him. The boy was dressed in a hoodie and jeans, his dark hair slightly disheveled.

"Uh, yeah? Can I help you?"

 Liam asked, already feeling a flicker of unease.