Urban System in America

A message from Adrian popped up on the screen.

"Someone’s here."

—

Outside, Adrian was leaning against a tree, pretending to scroll through his phone, but his attention was entirely on the road leading to the entrance.

He was trying to look relaxed and natural. Minutes passed in silence.

Too quiet—

Every rustle made him flinch.

Every distant voice made his pulse spike.

Then suddenly, his eyes caught a movement.

From across the lawn, a janitor was coming toward the building.

The man approached with a mop and bucket, humming as he walked.