When the last customer left and the front door was locked Cole and Elara went through the closing list just like they had done all day. They moved in their set order and kept their usual safe distance. Every step was slow and clear. They did not rush even though they were both tired from the long hours and the extra focus.
Cole counted the cash drawer and printed the report. Elara walked each aisle one last time to make sure no lights stayed on and no doors were left unlocked. When she came back to the front she saw Cole stand up and glance toward the glass windows. His head turned very slightly toward the street. It was the quiet sign they had agreed meant something was outside.
She finished wiping the counter then moved toward him at a normal pace. She did not hurry or look directly ou
