There was a sound of heavy breathing nearby. Elliot was walking home from Josephine's shop. They got too mad with their talks that he didn't realize it was already dark outside.
The streets were filled with lights, night markets, and people walking around but someone's breathing was overpowering the other sounds around him.
Elliot was unsure if he should pursue looking for the person. This person seemed like they are under the influence of something strong based on the rhythm of their breathing.
Looking around, Elliot saw an opportunity to go to a vacant alley. He was trying to figure out if he was indeed being followed. And if he was, he's going to confront the person.
The heavy breathing stopped once Elliot turned to the corner. His shoulder started to relax when a figure emerged from the darkness. A figure was passing through the shadows of the dark alley, reaching out its hands and walking from the wall.