Steve was distracted. He had so much on his mind. First, the attack, then the suits. What did it all mean. He couldn’t think. The pressure of the Thought Police would be on his case scared him. He zipped up and headed to what was left of New York.

He realized a day before yesterday, that breathing outside without the mask was not the greatest of ideas. All he needed was a food coupon.

He knocked on the door. After the buzzing of gears came to a stop a dusty keypad appeared. Steve entered his access code, and pressed 4 to accept the invitation.

He unzipped his suit and quickly jogged to John’s room. After another knock, John answered, “Steve! How is it?”

“I’m not here about that,” he replied, acting bored. “just here for a spare food coupon if you’ve got one.”

“Sure, sure, sure.” After rummaging through a drawer, John handed him an ancient coupon. After that, Steve left, for his discussion was over. He knew, although no one else did, that he was being watched.*