I lived in the city of Vancouver (BC, Canada) as a kid. I traveled around by bus (starting at age 8), including to the downtown east side (notoriously, dangerous these days) by myself, to go Christmas shopping or to a movie. My parents never seemed worried, unless I was late getting back (after dark, for example). But, I was never instructed to call for a pick up. They expected me to get myself home by bus, and on time, period. I was NEVER scared or even concerned about my safety. I knew enough to avoid the bums and hippies and stay in crowds of reputable-looking adults (mostly the old ladies).
Our brains do tend to work overtime trying to make sense out of noises we hear – to the point that we think we hear voices or music, etc. It’s an aural illusion. :P
A grilled cheese sandwich, perhaps?