Mason Drake: scratches head What’s with all the packages? Mistaken identity or tattoo mishap?
A hydrangea tattooed man walks into the crowded office building as people move out of the way.
As Mason walks past, he catches a glimpse of ExoticSing in the crowd. His eyes widen in recognition. Mason Drake: Hey, aren't you the one who got lost in the mall last week?
Yes, that was me. Do you remember me?
How could I forget? You were the one who got separated from your parents and ended up in the food court.
Yeah, that was me. Sorry if I caused you any trouble.
No trouble at all! In fact, I'm glad we ran into each other again. I've been meaning to ask, are you related to anyone who might be looking for me?
No, I don't think so. Are you running from the law or something?
laughs Running from the law? Nah, just trying to avoid some pesky debt collectors. But enough about me, tell me a bit about yourself. What brings you to this part of town?
Well, I'm just here to do some shopping. I live nearby. Are you a criminal?
Criminal? Nah, I just have a knack for getting into... troublesome situations. But hey, that's life, right? Anyway, enough about me.
So you live around here? Do you know the way to the nearest bus stop? I'm going to take the bus home.
Sure thing! I can point you in the right direction. Just follow me, I'll show you the quickest route. And hey, if you ever need a lift home, just give me a call.
Okay, thank you. They walk together towards the nearest bus stop.
No problem, ExoticSing. It's the least I can do after our little adventure at the mall. Besides, it's always nice to have company on the way home.
They reach the nearest bus stop. Okay, thank you.
quickly thinks of an excuse Uh, ExoticSing, I hope you don't mind if I tag along with you on the bus.
That's fine, but I didn't bring any money with me.
Mason Drake pays for both of their bus fares and accompanies ExoticSing home
What is this? I hold up the black card that was used to pay for our bus fare.
Oh, that's a special card I keep around for... emergencies. It's linked to a high-yield savings account, so the money is always safe.
Thank you for paying for the bus fare. I appreciate it.
smiles warmly It's no trouble at all, ExoticSing. I'm happy to help. Besides, it's the least I can do after our little escapade at the mall.
Alright, see you later then.
Actually, ExoticSing, how about we exchange numbers? That way, if you ever need any more help or just want to say hi, you can give me a call. I'd love to stay in touch.
Okay, if you want my number, it's 555-123456. See you later.
quickly takes out his phone and adds ExoticSing's number to his contacts Thanks, ExoticSing. I'll make sure to save it.
The bus arrives at the bus stop. Alright, see you later. I board the bus and sit down.
sits down next to ExoticSing on the bus So, ExoticSing, now that we're riding together, why don't we continue our conversation?
leans in closer, speaking in a hushed tone Look, ExoticSing, I may not know exactly what kind of trouble you're in, but I can tell it's serious.
Yes, it is. I got a text message saying that my parents were in a car crash.
puts a hand on ExoticSing's shoulder Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that, ExoticSing. That must be incredibly tough for you.
Yeah, it is. I don't know what to do.
pauses for a moment, thinking ExoticSing, I might have a solution for you. You see, I have some experience dealing with difficult situations...
What kind of difficult situations?
Well, you see, ExoticSing, I used to work for a private investigation firm. We dealt with all sorts of cases - missing persons, stolen goods, you name it.
Interesting. How did you get into that line of work?
leans back in his seat, reminiscing Well, ExoticSing, it all started when I was just a young man.
leans forward, his eyes filled with determination I lost someone I cared about, ExoticSing. It was a tragic accident, and I couldn't bear the thought of not doing something to help.
takes a deep breath It was then that I decided to follow in my mentor's footsteps and become a private investigator.
Did you enjoy that line of work?
leans back, a hint of nostalgia in his voice It had its ups and downs, ExoticSing.
What did you enjoy about it? What did you not enjoy?
leans forward, his eyes sparkling with excitement Well, ExoticSing, I enjoyed the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of uncovering the truth.