I was walking home from the train station. I’d finished college a little late and it was now half past six. The streets were reasonably empty. Just a few people passing in their cars, paying me little attention. My attention at that time was elsewhere. I had a report due in a couple of days and I was listening to my iPod planning when I’d be able to complete it, being busy the next couple of days.

I never did.

The autumn air was biting as it hit my face. I pulled my scarf tighter around my neck and tugged on my coat, still not warming up. The wind speed picked up and I gripped onto my hat to keep it on my head. The street lamps were just starting to come on, the light dimming. My hat flew off my head, dispite my efforts. I turned to run after it. I’d only bought it at the weekend and I loved it.

I turned and ran straight into the chest of a large man whom I did not know.