Mikel made his way back to the studio. He had stayed out later than usual, hoping the fresh air would clear his mind from the weight of recent events.
Viktor's absence still gnawed at him, even though they had both agreed it was for the best. Mikel wanted to hold onto his humanity for as long as possible, but with every day that passed, the lurking dangers of Viktor's world seemed to encroach more and more into his own life.
The eerie feeling of being watched was still there, hovering just out of reach, like a specter lurking in the corners of his mind.
He picked up his pace, eyes darting nervously at the darkened alleys that lined the street. Just a few more blocks, and he'd be safe inside the studio. But the creeping sense of dread wouldn't leave him.
And then it happened.
