CITY STREET - EVENING
Linda, dressed in a hurry, walks briskly along the dimly lit city street, her mind preoccupied with thoughts about refusing Eddie's party invitation. The city's bustling energy had mellowed into a nocturnal hum. Neon signs from nearby stores cast a vivid glow on the pavement, and the distant sound of music drifted from a lively bar.
"I've got to find a way to tell Eddie I can't make it to that party tonight," she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible amidst the urban symphony. The scent of street food wafted through the air, tempting her senses.
She carefully slipped her phone back into her purse after sending an email to her boss. The glow of the smartphone screen briefly illuminated her face, revealing a subtle hint of determination in her eyes. The intermittent honks of passing cars and the chatter of pedestrians echoed in the background.