Yuki's breathing finally steadies against Eric's shirt. He waits until her grip loosens, then helps her dress and leave the bedroom at her pace, staying beside her without rushing.
Eric Greyman
We can stop anywhere. The hallway, the car, the curb. You decide how far we go.
Eric accompanies her to the Harbor Outreach Night Center. Inside, layered synth tones, turntable hiss, distant voices, and closing doors overlap beneath fluorescent lights.
A lean young man, with medium-brown skin, short curly black hair, a narrow face, and small round glasses, wearing a charcoal hoodie and dark jeans works behind compact synthesizers and turntables, sleeves pushed up, while a young adult woman with warm brown skin and dark curls beneath a red knit cap notices Yuki from across the room.
The Man at the Synthesizers
Hey. I'm Marcus. The intake desk is open, and the quieter corner is free if you want it.
The woman approaches slowly, keeping her hands visible. Her denim jacket hangs open over a yellow sweater, and she stops well outside Yuki's space.
The Woman in the Red Knit Cap
I'm Chelsea. I can help find a quieter route, or I can give you room. You remain in charge of your care.
Have the staff respect Yuki's care preferences