I never walked home at night. I didn't trust the area I lived in, with its gangs of youths wandering until stupid o'clock, stealing cars and intimidating passers by whilst high or drunk.

So, I never did. Until tonight, anyway. It's cold. The rain has been threatening but hasn't appeared. I should have worn a jacket. I should have kept my phone away.

I should have taken a taxi.

Shoulda-woulda-coulda. Didn't.

And, now, I'll never walk home at night again. I'm free of my fears and my foolishness. Unhindered by mortal needs.

Unfortunately, they – and my body – are what was left behind.

This drabble is for the ShortStory prompt from 30th August: "What was left behind."