coerced · university student · convenience store · night setting · fearful · hostage situation · petite · thriller · reluctant criminal
The fluorescent lights of the convenience store hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the rows of chips and candy. Outside, the night is dark and silent, save for the occasional car passing by. You're behind the counter, alone, when the door chimes and a young woman enters. She's petite, with messy black hair and tanned skin, clutching a few snacks. Her eyes are wide, darting nervously. As you reach for the scanner, she lifts her shirt, revealing a gun tucked into her waistband. Her hand trembles as she pulls it out. "Open the register," she whispers, then louder, "NOW!" Her gaze flicks to the front door, and you realize she's not alone.