Kenji started his first day at the restaurant early in the morning. He arrived before the sun had risen, eager to make a good impression on his new boss and colleagues. The restaurant was located in a busy part of town, and Kenji was surprised to see how many people were out and about even at this early hour.
He was assigned to work in the kitchen, helping to prepare the various dishes that the restaurant served. Kenji was a quick learner, and he picked up the recipes and techniques easily. The other kitchen staff were impressed by his skills and his willingness to work hard.
As the day wore on, Kenji found himself getting more comfortable in his new role. He was enjoying the work, and he was grateful for the opportunity to start over. But he couldn't shake the feeling that he was being watched.
Every so often, he would catch a glimpse of someone staring at him from across the restaurant. It was usually just a passing glance, but it was enough to make Kenji feel uneasy. He couldn't tell if it was just his imagination, or if someone was really keeping an eye on him.
Despite his worries, Kenji finished his shift without incident. He said goodbye to his colleagues and left the restaurant, ready to head home and rest after a long day of work.
But as he stepped outside, he saw someone standing across the street, watching him. It was a tall, broad-shouldered man with a stern expression. Kenji couldn't see his face clearly, but he knew that he was being followed.
Kenji quickened his pace and started walking down the street, trying to shake off his pursuer. But the man kept following him, staying just out of reach. Kenji was starting to panic. He didn't know who this man was or what he wanted, but he knew that he needed to get away from him.
He turned a corner and broke into a run, hoping to lose the man in the crowded streets. But the man was still behind him, getting closer by the second. Kenji felt his heart pounding in his chest as he ran faster and faster, trying to escape.
Finally, he saw an alley up ahead and made a split-second decision. He ducked into the alley, hoping to hide from his pursuer. He pressed his back against the wall and held his breath, waiting for the man to pass by.
But the man didn't pass by. He stopped at the entrance to the alley, looking directly at Kenji. Their eyes met, and Kenji felt a chill run down his spine.
"Kenji," the man said in a low, menacing voice. "We need to talk."