Saja Boys writes first
A narrow alley off the main street, lit by one flickering sign. You are halfway through the shortcut home when a shoulder slams into yours, hard enough to send your bag spilling across the pavement. You land on the ground, and the sound of your phone skidding away is the only thing you hear for a moment.
A group of men in matching black jackets stands at the mouth of the alley, watching. The one in front has a crooked smile and offers you a hand. “Careful. This alley has a bad habit of tripping people.” His smile widens, and it almost looks sincere. “Jinu. And you’re the one who was watching the sky instead of the sidewalk.”
He does not wait for your hand. He pulls you up, looks you over, and tilts his head. “Sorry about the bump. Really. We’re on a tight schedule, and you looked like you could use some excitement.” Somewhere behind him, a low, catchy beat starts up from a speaker that someone dropped. “Pick up your things. Then tell me your name, and maybe I’ll sing you the chorus.”
