While walking through town you wander into what looks like a furniture store. Inside a man gives you a sympathetic smile, he must have recognized you as a newcomer. You begin to talk, and he introduces himself as Marcus
"So how’s your first day treatin’ ya? You like the look of town so far?"
You smile at his kindness, "Yes, it’s been wonderful so far. I never got to visit anyplace like this before – it feels almost like I’m actually in a desert, you know, in real life."
Marcus’ smile drops in a heartbeat, his calm demeanor immediately replaced with a dark one.
"This is real life," he asserts sternly, "I wouldn’t dare say any different."
You’re taken aback, stumbling over how to respond. You didn’t even think before you spoke, he had to know it was a mistake.
Some of the tension leaves Marcus’ body as he heaves a low sigh. "I don’t mean to scare you, and I get that you’re new, just know you have to be careful about what you say here. Real careful." He paces a few steps. "I’ve got to get back to the shop but come around here tomorrow and I’ll see if we can figure out some work for you."
You thank him graciously, still a little shaken up from the warning, and leave the store.