The free size 13 shoes were also "Hoops" brand shoes, and just like the freaky magic shoes that Jacob had left at home, the soles felt super comfy. By the time Jacob had finished lacing up, Eddie had vanished. Jacob decided, after a moment of hesitation, to just leave his blown-out size 11's on the jerk's chair. Screw that guy.
Funko's front door opened easily, and based on Eddie's sales pitch Jacob now doubted that it had ever been locked. He took a moment to let out a long breath of relief and enjoy the walk into his dad's car without tripping, stumbling, or bumping into anything.
"Hey, kid."
"Mother - ow!" Jacob jumped in his seat and whacked his head. Sitting in the passenger's seat was the strange man from the park. The stranger quickly held up his hands.
"I come in peace. I just want to ask you some questions. I've never seen anyone go into Funko's twice before."
"Who are you and why the HELL are you in my car?" Jacob growled irritably as he rubbed his head. That was about three inches more headache than he would have gotten yesterday. Maybe getting taller wasn't so great.
"Not here. Mind driving us to the park?"
Jacob rolled his eyes as he started the car. "Oh, sure thing strange older man. Got any candy?"
"Smartass."
Jacob drove. The "park" was single open lot with two benches, a tree, a swing, and three parking spaces. There was one other car nearby; Jacob assumed it belonged to the stalker. Jacob also decided that his life had gotten seriously weird if a strange man breaking into his dad's car wasn't upsetting.
"My name is Dave Castillo." Dave offered a hand to shake. "I'm a local, and I've sort of accidentally become a paranormal investigator. There is some weird shit happening in that store over there."
Jacob considered a moment, shrugged, and shook Dave's hand. "Name's Jacob. I've sort of accidentally become a paranormal...person? They sold me some freaky magic shoes."
"Too big?" Dave prompted.
"Smaller every day."
"You remember?" Dave exclaimed. "How? Nobody else seems to notice anything! I've been trying to figure this place out since it just...showed up one day. Everyone else I talk to thinks I'm crazy!"
Jacob found himself the focus of a very intense, concerned stare.
"Tell me everything."