Late-Night Visit

Michael was dead tired. He was eager to get home after a long day's work. The boss had them all pull night shifts for three days in a row, and Michael could hardly spend time with Kathy. At least Kathy had to work late today too and had just reached their small home.

Michael had just caught sight of the lights of the suburbs he and Kathy lives in when the engine of his car started to splutter.

"What in the world?" exclaimed Michael as his car trundled to a stop. The engine gave one final cough and died. Michael glanced at the gas gauge. It was empty. Cursing, Michael got out and checked the trunk. Where a spare can of gas should be, it was empty. Michael scratched his head in annoyance. He was sure he put a spare can into the trunk a few days ago. Ah well, at least the dumb car died on me in close to the corner store. Michael thought as he shouldered his bag and made his way towards Jeff's Corner Stop.

Jeff had his lights on. Good, it meant he was still up. Jeff opened and closed his store based on the times he woke and slept. A dozy man with love for beer and business to buy his beer, Jeff was well known among the neighbours. He should have some gas. Jeff sold anything that comes his way, almost all of them useful. Michael hoped he did.

The bell jingled as Michael pushed the door open. Jeff was nowhere to be seen. His 'office' light was not on either.

"Jeff! You here!" called Michael. It did not take long for him to get an answer. Michael heard cursing and a crash. From his 'office', Jeff stumbled out. He looked more haggard than usual. For some reason, Jeff was wearing a clean shirt and trousers. He still held a beer in his hand, but the clothes suggested he was a working man like Michael, not the boozy, grumpy yet well-mannered man who owned the store.

Jeff grumbled, "Look, Mike. We know each other for a while now. We're mates. But for God's sake did ya have to interrupt me? I'm busy." Michael chuckled and said, "Busy with what? A game? At this hour? C'mon man, I just need some gas to get home." Jeff gave him a look and sighed. He stalked down his narrow aisles and retrieved two cans of gas and plopped them on the counter.

Jeff watched as Michael pulled away from his corner store. He turned off the lights in his store and locked the entrance. No more interruptions. He went into his office and did the same, locking it. The figure on his chair asked, "Is he gone?" Jeff nodded, sweat breaking out on his back again. The figure continued with a satisfied tone, "Good. Only one more night of preparation, Jeffery and all your desires will disappear. Be patient." Jeff knelt in front of the figure and murmured thanks.