Shadows of Perception: A Night of unforeseen connection

At the age of 17, I would frequent the gym three to four times a week and subsequently take the bus home. On a particular Sunday, I missed my bus and was forced to wait for the next one. As my parents were unavailable and taxis were exorbitant, I opted to remain at the bus shelter. The night was frigid, and snow had begun to fall. After nearly an hour of waiting, I had not encountered a single soul until I caught sight of a disconcerting figure, garbed in multiple layers of clothing, slowly approaching me.

I was aware that directing my gaze towards him would attract further attention, hence I opted to concentrate on my mobile device.

Subsequently, he positioned himself at the opposite end of the shelter and proceeded to fixate his gaze on me.

I detected an unusual demeanor about him, which led me to believe that he was either under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

He then inquired, "Excuse me, do you happen to know when the bus is scheduled to arrive?"

I removed my earphones and responded, "I believe it may be delayed due to the snow."

He continued to stare at me for a prolonged period before commencing to mutter to himself.

His behavior was becoming increasingly unsettling, prompting me to feign engagement with my mobile device.

After a brief interval, I glanced up once more, only to discover that he had advanced closer to my vicinity.

I averted my gaze momentarily, only to hear the sound of his gradual approach. I turned towards him and inquired, "Are you alright?" He gazed at me with a glossy-eyed expression, raised his arm, and leaned in my direction.

Without hesitation, I retrieved my bag and hastily departed as he collapsed to the ground. I continued down the road, making a concerted effort to refrain from looking back. I persisted until I reached the subsequent bus stop, whereupon I glanced behind me to ascertain his whereabouts. Upon discovering his absence, I proceeded to take a seat. Feeling a sense of relief, I rested my head against the back of the glass and awaited the arrival of the bus.

There was a sudden knocking sound, which startled me. I swiftly turned my head to find the same individual gazing at me through the glass.

"May I inquire as to the reason for your behavior?" I questioned, taken aback by his actions.

Subsequently, he proceeded to make his way towards me, prompting me to issue a warning. "I implore you to maintain a safe distance," I exclaimed in a state of panic, while simultaneously retreating.

I had intended to engage in a brisk run, but I had inadvertently left my bag at the shelter and was unable to depart without it. Suddenly, an individual launched himself at me, prompting me to expeditiously evade his attack. He subsequently fell to the ground, landing on his face. I was momentarily paralyzed with shock, but soon noticed that he was bleeding profusely from his facial region. Despite my attempts to elicit a response from him, he remained unresponsive.

I promptly contacted the police and paramedics, who arrived expeditiously. I provided them with a detailed account of the incident, and they informed me that the individual in question had been under the influence of prescription drugs. Upon examining his wallet, they discovered a photograph of him and his son, who bore a striking resemblance to me. It was surmised that he had mistaken me for his son. I later learned that he had lost custody of his child and had become unhinged as a result. He was subsequently taken away for treatment, and I have not seen him since. Shortly thereafter, I obtained my driver's license and have not utilized public transportation since.