A solid steel service door sat propped open with a thick rubber wedge to let the kitchen heat escape into the alley.

“The catering staff uses this hall to bring food straight to the auditorium tables,” Arthur said.

They slipped inside the building and let the heavy door shut behind them.

The sharp smell of commercial floor wax immediately replaced the cold autumn air.

Eli’s worn sneakers squeaked loudly against the polished linoleum floor.

He stopped walking instantly and looked down at his shoes.

“Walk on the edges where the wax is thin,” Arthur whispered.