Ethan sat on a worn-out bench outside the museum, the flickering streetlights casting long shadows that danced across the cobblestones. The world had become a blur of endless job applications and rejection emails, each one a reminder of his need to carve out a place in a future he couldn't quite grasp. With a slight sigh, he glanced at his phone—no new notifications, just a reminder of the night ahead.
His gaze drifted to the grand façade of the museum, its towering pillars and intricate carvings whispering tales of history long forgotten. It was a place he had visited often as a child, captivated by its exhibits, unknowingly drawn to the artifacts that held the secrets of the past. Today, it offered him a lifeline—a job as the night security guard.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Ethan gathered the last of his courage, crumpling his resume in his pocket. He pushed through the heavy glass doors, the familiar scent of aged wood and polished metal greeting him like an old friend.
"Welcome aboard!" a cheerful voice called out, pulling Ethan from his thoughts. It was Sarah, the museum's administrative assistant, her bright smile warm against the cool evening.
"Thanks," Ethan replied, his voice a little unsteady. "I appreciate the opportunity."
Sarah handed him a flashlight and a set of keys. "All you have to do is patrol the galleries, keep an eye on the exhibits, and ensure nothing goes awry. Sounds easy, right?"
"Sure, I can handle that," he said, trying to sound more confident than he felt.
"Just remember, some of the artifacts are… well, a bit peculiar," she added, a playful glint in her eye. "You never know what might happen after dark."
Ethan chuckled nervously. "I'll keep that in mind."