Redemption

[stormy]

Dusk was falling fast over the city as Hayden stood, silently watching from an empty alleyway. Before him he saw throgs of people filing into the streets, rushing home from the buildings were most of their mortal day is spent waisting away. Home, that must be nice... he thought to himself. Suddenly he saw the person he was waiting for. Poor kid.. Homes not so great for us all, Hayden reminded himself as he stepped from the shadows and crossed the street. The kid called herself Sarah, but he knew that name was not hers. He felt that she was lieing as she spoke the name, and that was fine. If a false name alowed her to feel more secure so be it. He wanted to help her get where he knew she could be. She dreamed of things like school, ways to better her life from where she stood right now. He recalled the feeling of hopelessness in that situation reguarding things like school. But unlike him, she would have someone to help her get on track. Hayden had already filled out the paperwork needed to get her into the local college, and had even enroled himself in order to keep an eye on her for a bit. He did not figure on staying, but he did want to be sure she would be ok. Hayden put on his charming smile as soon as he knew Sarah, who he really knew was Jessica Fouler, had seen him. She was expecting him this afternoon, but he knew his knews would suprise her. She had been simply hoping for something to eat, not an admittance into college.
"Here you go Sarah, you'll need these come Monday," Hayden told her as he handed her the bag he'd had thrown over his right sholder. The girl stood there silently for a moment as things sunk in. Suddenly her face was lit with a smile as she threw her arms around Hayden repeating her thanks. Hayden was glad in moments like these that although cool, his skin was not ice cold like others of his kind. He only wished he was a little softer as well. He always hated explaining, lying, to those who always asked questions once they noticed. Muscles he'd usualy say with a smile as he'd help the acceptance of his words by using his powers.
"No problem kid, just be there on time. I'll see you around campus ok.." he said as he handed her some cash for food, and a bit extra incase she needed it. Sarah's closeness did not bother him. Hayden had been sure to eat earlier, and besides that he had spent years in hospitals after getting his medical degree, training himself to withstand the temptation that could easily controle so many of his kind.
Eat with me tonight Hayden," Sarah said as Hayden turned to walk away. He made a point not to stay longer than needed, he had learned long ago that that was the best way for the to learn he was trust worthy, He tried to be sure to never crowed those around him. As he turned back, Hayden saw a smile spread wide across her face, how could he refuse. "I already ate kid, but I can hangout if you want," Hayden said. ok. she said with a smile as she led the way down the street. Soon Hayden found himself in front of and old styled diner. Holding the door open for Sarah, he followed her inside and to a booth. I'm glad you'll be there too Hayden. At least I'll have one friend, Sarah said with a smile as she took the menu from a small waitress. "I'm sure soon you will have many friends. But you should start out honest. This is your chance kid," Hayden said in a serious tone as he smiled. He did not want to see her blow this, she could do well if only she would allow herself the chance. He knew right away that she got his point, and Hayden then sat silent as he listened to her order her food.
As he sat quietly, the thought of his sister flashed through Hayden's mind momentarily. The thought caused him to wonder if the rest of his days would be spent as they were now. Alone. The only time he was with someone was to help those he could. He was glad to do what he could for those in such simular situations as he was once in. But he was never in their lives for long. Although he carried the memory of each of them with him everyday, he himself was alone...

This post has been edited by stormy on Feb 22 2008, 01:25 PM

[Serena]

The front door closed softly behind Skyla as she came through it with her navy blue backpack on her back. It had been a very long day and she was tired and hungry. She had been at school since 9am that morning and had just left a little more then an hour ago. Freaking buses! They always take so long at this time of day. she thought in irritation. She was taking a number of criminal justice classes along with math, history, science, literature, and a beginning piano class. Not all of them were on the same day, somedays, such as today, she had back to back classes that last two hours each and it was tiring.
Ugh!!! I'm so glad it's friday. I have a ton of homework, but at least I don't have to go to school until monday. she thought as she walked into her room and placed her backpack on the bottom bunk of her bed. She had a white bunkbed with the bottom being full size and the top being twin sized. She always slept on the top bunk, but the bottom was made up so she could take naps there when she was too tired to climb on top. It was also incase she had friends spend the night. Oh I'm so tired, but I'm hungry. I'll go see what's in the kitchen. she thought as she left her room and made her way into the kitchen. She looked in the refrigerator and freezer and didn't find anything to her liking that didn't need to be cooked, then moved on to the cabanits. Nothing. I guess I'm going out to eat, but it's getting dark. Do I really want to be out in the dark on a bus just because I'm too lazy to eat? She thought on that for a few moments and an image of her one of her favorite diner's flashed through her mind. Yeah I do; their food is worth it. I wonder if I should change. She thought as she went back in her room and looked down at her appearance. She was wearing jet black jeans, black vans shoes, a black pullover hoody with the SF Giants symble in the middle, and a black Giants baseball hat.
Nah! I'm good to go. I just need to grab my bag and put my stuff in it. she thought as she grabbed a small sandy gray messenger bag that was hanging on the back of her room door. She pulled her wallet and keys from her backpack and tossed them in her bag. Then grabbed her mp3 player from her desk across from her bed and headed for her front door. At the door she hesitated as she double checked thats she had her keys. Her mother was at work and wouldn't be home until almost mindnight and if she was locked out she was screwed. Okay I have my keys and my wallet. Humm....maybe I should take a book. Who knows how long the bus will take, and I am eating alone. Gotta have some kind of entertainment besides my music. she thought and ran back into her room, stopped in front of the bookcase closest to the door and grabbed a random book. It didn't matter what it was; she liked all her books, so she would see what it was when she was ready to read it.
Skyla walked out of her apartment making sure to put the top lock on, and left her building and walked to the closest bus stop. For once that day she didn't have to wait forever for the bus, so when she got on she sat in a single seat and looked out the window. I hope this doesn' t take long; I'm starving. she thought as she turned on her music and drowned out the loud conversations around her. When the bus reached her stop she got off and walked a block down to an old fashion diner. She walked in and looked around as she turned her music off. It's pretty crowed today. she thought. The only seat that was avalible was a booth in the back behind a girl and a boy. One of the wiatresses greeted her and showed her to that seat. She saw that the boy had sandy brown hair, was wearing a blue botton up shirt and had the sleeves rolled up so his forarms were showing. She was glad that the waitress had seated her facing the boy, that way she could get a look at his face, and see if he was cute or not. After the waitress handed her a menu and said that she would be back in a few minutes to take her order Skyla took the chance to glance at the boy across from her.
Oh he is cute and he has nice arms! I'm sure that's his grilfriend though. Not like I would have the guts to talk to him if she wasn't or is he was alone. she thought as she took her hat off, layed it on the table, and gazed at the menu. A few minutes later the waitress came back.
Are you ready to order? "Yes I am. Can I please get the turkey sandwich with fries?" Skyla said. Sure. And what would you like to drink? she asked. "Umm...." she said as she looked at the menu again. "A coke please." she finished and then handed the waitress the menu. Okay I'll be right back with your drink. "Thank you." she said and watched the waitress walk away then pulled out teh book that she had brought with her.
Well....At least it's one of my favorites. she thought as she opened Eclipse to Chapter twenty and turned to her favorite part. Alright Bella. Lets see you try and seduce your man. she thought with a smile as she began to read.

[stormy]

As Jessica looked over her menu Hayden heard the door to the diner open and smelt the arival of a new human. This one seemed to have an interesting scent, one that caught Hayden's temporary attention. A moment later the female passed by their booth as she went to take her own seat in the booth behind his own.Hayden noticed she was wearing jet black jeans, black vans shoes, a black pullover hoody, and a black baseball hat. Once seated Hayden had a clear veiw of the girl, she was seated facing him. He thought she seemed rather pretty.He noticed she had brown eyes with blue and gray rings, and long dark hair. From the view poit he also saw the SF Giants logo on her pullover, and hat.
Nothing for you at all Hayden? Jessica's voice brought his attention back to where it presently needed to be. "No thanks kid, I'm good" Hayden said with a smile. He rethought his answer when he saw the look he got from the small waitress. Man, can a person just not want somethin, he thought to himself. "You know what, I'm not hungry, but I would like a water please." Hayden said addressing the waitress. Jessica ordered herself a hamburger and fry with a shake to drink, handed the waitress her menu and turned back to Hayden. Hayden, how'd you get me in school?.. I ddn't even fill out any papers." Jessica asked as the waitress walked away. "I do what I can. I handled the paperwork Jessica." Hayden said, not even watching for her reaction of the use of her real name. He was alowing himself to link into her feelings, to know what she was feeling, but not affect her feelings. He felt it as she felt the feeling of suprise, and then subtle knowing. She, as most had gotten used to him knowing and learning more than they let on about. So I guess it's really me and not some Sarah enrolled right." she said with a small sigh and downcast eyes. "Yea. I signed up the rea you. Don't forget what I said about starting honest kid. Telling lies lead to more lies, pretty soon your so tangled you can't find your own way out. I'm showing you the door, and willing to help you through it. If you choose to take that step is your own choice." Hayden said as he heard the brown eyed girl across oder herself a turkey sandwich with fries, and coke. He wondered breifly if she was out this late alone considering she was ordering and no one had yet joined her. Could you stop calling me kid?. You are like what, maybe a couple months older than me," Once again her voice brought Hayden back from his thoughts, and her words nearly made him laugh out loud. "Yea, maybe just a couple... I'll try to lay of with the kid stuff, ok?" Hayden said as his attention was stolen once again. Aparently, without noticing he had alowed himself to read this new humans emotions. He noticed because there was a change in her feelings. He had assumed the feeling that he associated with hunger was coming from Jessica, but then she suddenly became happy, and perhaps that was anticipation he was picking up.. Hayden looked up to see her flipping through a book he knew well, Eclipse. Hayden let out a small laugh as he broke his link with this stranger. He did not feel it right to snoop too much. Thanks, he heard Jessica say as he turned his attention back once more. A moment later the waitress was there with Jessica's food and Hayden waited till she was gone to speak to Jessica. "Just so I know, you do have a place to stay until monday right. Or you need help?.. I can pick you up if you need, but you need to be on time. Sorry about it, but your starting a week late," Hayden said. I'm just glad I'm in, and yea. I have something lined up, a friend is meeting me here soon, and I'll be on time Hayden," Jessica said with a smile. Hayden sat queitly as she ate, wondering if all of that were true. He was sure a friend would be there, or she would not have set herself up with that lie, but was she realy ok for the weekend.. Hayden pushed the worry back. He was only going to push so far, if she says she's clear, she's clear. As she ate, Heyden's thoughts wondered to this new mystery person sitting across from him. Hayden nearly rolled his eyes at himself. It was none of his business if or why she was eating alone, but her safly making it home could be his concern, if he chose it.. Perhaps.. he thought to himself. At this point Hayden was very glad he had eaten earlier. He was used to being around people, but there were a lot of people in here. But that wasn't the main problem, the problem was so many in such a small space, topped with this new scent he felt drawn to for a reason he had not really allowed himself the time to think on yet.

This post has been edited by stormy on Sep 24 2008, 11:52 AM

[Serena]

OOC: Sorry it's so long. I just had to put all that text in there. I just had to. It wouldn't have worked with just mentioning it. Plus it'll help you know what she's feeling. Anywho her thoughts will be italized and what she reads will be italized and in bold.

IN: Skyla turned the pages until she got to a part she liked and began to read as she waited for her soda to arrive. “Edward,” I said, nervous, staring at a freckle on my wrist. “There’s something that I want to do before I’m not human anymore.” He waited for me to continue. I didn’t. My face was all hot. “Whatever you want,” he encouraged, anxious and completely clueless. “Do you promise?” I muttered, knowing my attempt to trap him with his words was not going to work, but unable to resist. “Yes.” He said. I looked up to see that his eyes were earnest and confused. “Tell me what you want, and you can have it.” I couldn’t believe how awkward and idiotic I felt. I was too innocent—which was, of course, central to the discussion. I didn’t have the faintest idea how to be seductive. I would just have to settle for flushed and self-conscious. “You,” I mumbled almost incoherently. At this point a smile stretched across Skyla’s face. She had always thought this part was funny, but very blush worthy. “I’m yours.” He smiled, still oblivious, trying to hold my gaze as I looked away again. I took a deep breath and shifted forward so that I was kneeling on the bed. Then I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him. He kissed me back, bewildered but willing. His lips were gentle against mine, and I could tell his mind was elsewhere –trying to figure out what was on my mind. I decided he needed a hint. My hands were slightly shaky as I unlocked my arms from around his neck. My fingers slid down his neck to the collar of his shirt. The trembling didn’t help as I tried to hurry to undo the buttons before he stopped me. His lips froze, and I could almost hear the click in his head as he put together my words and my actions.
At this Skyla let out a soft laugh and looked up just as the waitress showed up with her drink. “Thank you.” She said as she carefully moved the soda away from her precious book. If she spilled soda on her book she’d have a stroke and then have to go out and buy a new one when she recovered. Oh I just love that part. I can so picture myself reacting just as she does. She thought just as she heard the girl across from her ask the guy a question about school. Hummm…her name is Jessica and his name is Hayden. That is a really nice name. I’ve always liked it. It makes me think of yummy Hayden Christensen. Anyway…. she thought as she put a straw in her drink and sipped it, then got back to her book. She flipped through a couple more pages until she got to another of her favorite parts.
“Exactly. Do you imagine I would ever take that kind of risk with you?” I stared into his eyes for a long minute. There was no sign of compromise, no hint of indecision in them. “Please.” I closed my eyes in defeat, waiting for the quick and final no. But he didn’t answer immediately. I hesitated in disbelief, stunned to hear that his breathing was uneven again. I opened my eyes, and his face was torn. “Please?” I whispered again, my heartbeat picking up speed. My words tumbled out as I rushed to take advantage of the sudden uncertainty in his eyes. “You don’t have to make me any guarantees. If it doesn’t work out right, well, then that’s that. Just let us try...only try. And I’ll give you what you want,” I promised rashly. “I’ll marry you. I’ll let you pay for Dartmouth, and I won’t complain about the bribe to get me in. You can even buy me a fast car if that makes you happy! Just…please.” His icy arms tightened around me, and his lips were at my ear; his cool breath made me shiver. “This is unbearable. So many things I’ve wanted to give you –and this is what you decide to demand. Do you have any idea how painful it is, trying to refuse you when you plead with me this way?” “Then don’t refuse,” I suggested breathlessly. He didn’t respond.
“Please,” I tried again. “Bella…” He shook his head slowly, but it didn’t feel like a denial as his face, his lips, moved back and forth across my throat. It felt more like surrender. My heart, racing already, spluttered frantically. Again, I took what advantage I could. When his face turned toward mine with the slow movement of his indecision, I twisted quickly in his arms till my lips reached his. His hands seized my face, and I thought he was going to push me away again. I was wrong. His mouth was not gentle; there was a brand-new edge of conflict and desperation in the way his lips moved. I locked my arms around his neck, and to my suddenly overheated skin, his body felt colder than ever. I trembled, but it was not from the chill.
Skyla smiled here and her eyebrows rose slightly. As she read she pulled a scrunchy from around her wrist, twisted her hair into a bun at her neck, so that she wouldn't have to worry about it when she put her hat on, and put the scrunchy around it to hold it in place. Then she rested her arms on the table in front of her book. He didn’t stop kissing me. I was the one who had to break away, gasping for air. Even then his lips did not leave my skin, they just moved to my throat. That is just hot! I swear if I was to hook up with a vampire I would want him to do that. Not just move his lips to my neck, but my throat. There would just be something about the guy being a vampire who sucks blood. I don't know...maybe I'm just crazy, but it's still hot. The thrill of victory was a strange high; it made me feel powerful. Brave. My hands weren’t unsteady now; I got through with the buttons on his shirt this time easily, and my fingers traced the perfect planes of his icy chest. He was too beautiful. What was the word he’d used just now? Unbearable –that was it. His beauty was too much to bear…. I pulled his mouth back to mine, and he seemed just as eager as I was. One of his hands still cupped my face, his other arm was tight around my waist, straining me closer to him. It made it slightly more difficult as I tried to reach the front of my shirt, but not impossible. Cold iron fetters locked around my wrists, and pulled my hands above my head, which was suddenly on a pillow. His lips were at my ear again. “Bella,” he murmured, his voice warm and velvet. “Would you please stop trying to take your clothes off?”
“Aw man! That’s played.” she said quietly with a sigh. That part always got to her. Why did he stop? He knew just as well as she did that he didn’t want to stop. She thought as the waitress came with her food. She placed it on the table on the opposite side of her book. “Thank you.” She said with a smile. You’re welcome. and with that the waitress walked away. She then closed her book and put it on the seat next to her, picked up one half of her turkey sandwich and bit into it. Ummm.....yummy. This is the best. she thought in satisfaction as she closed her eyes and chewed. She was trying to put all her concentration in eating so she wouldn't look at the cute guy in front of her, because she really wanted to look at him. Eye candy is always nice, but not if you get caught. she thought as she kept her eyes closed.

This post has been edited by Serena on Feb 22 2008, 11:26 PM

[stormy]

OOC: no prob. besides, I love that part I did not mind reading it at all
IC: As Hayden sat across from Jessica, doing his best not to look back to the dark haired girl sitting behind them, he sat silently, watching her eat her food. Hayden could recall that he liked food at one time, many different kinds. The thought brought back images of his mother and sister, images that always brought a bit of sadness and longing to his heart. Pushing aside sad thoughts, Hayden looked back to Jessica. He wondered when the last time the girl had eaten had been because she seemed to be eating rather fast. Hayden was sure to give her money when he saw her, but he was not sure were it went after she left. Perhaps it's only because her friend is coming to get her... Well, I'll need to be sure and try to help her with finding a job before I "leave",.. he considered to himself.
Hayden laughed lightly as Jessica took a large drink of her shake and gave herself a brain freeze. She smiled at him after she was able to open her eyes and see. "Over did it a little," she said with a laugh. Hayden was glad to see how much this person had changed in the time he had known her. Where she once would trust no one and never smiled or laughed, now she trusted at least a few, and her smiles, although rare on some occasions, were very nice to see light up her face. "Well them, slow it down a bit, it's not gonna run away," Hayden said in a low light hearted voice. Jessica simply shrugged her shoulders with a small laugh as she went back to eating her food.
As Jessica went back to her food Hayden heard the girl behind them speak in a low voice he was sure Jessica would not even notice. “Aw man! That’s played.” he heard her say with a sigh. Hayden wondered what part she was at in the book to cause her reaction. At some points he wished he could read thoughts rather than feelings, although at some points it was as though he almost did know what some people were thinking. But in many ways he was glad he could not. Being able to feel others emotions and even manipulate them helped a lot with helping runaways and others in need. He didn't wish to invade on others privacy more than he already could, he even tried limiting his own power so not to affect everyone around him, or feeling all of their emotions. Hayden glanced back to Jessica as the girl’s waitress came with her food. “Thank you.” he heard her say, glancing to her in time to see her smile at the waitress. The sight cause Hayden to smile, a reaction he did not even notice as he looked at her. She has a very nice smile, he thought to himself as he quickly took his eyes from her so she would not see him looking at her. You’re welcome. he heard the waitress reply as she walked away. Hayden looked to Jessica and saw that she was nearly finished with her food. Hayden was trying to not focus on the girl behind them as suddenly a wave satisfaction flowed through him. Rolling his eyes at himself, Hayden glanced over to see that the girl was eating her sandwich, and her eyes were closed. She must like the food, he thought with a low laugh Jessica would not even hear as he cut his connection to the girl once again.
Why in the world does that keep happening with her.. I've not focused on her once, and yet her emotions have connected to me twice now, Hayden was thinking as he heard the door to the dinner swing open. It was clear to him from the sound of the steps and scent coming closer that the person was headed to their table. He looked over to see that Jessica was just finishing up her food as the stranger walked up to the table. Hayden was acting as though he was unaware of the approaching presence until the boy reached their table. When a boy who looked to be near Jessica's age stopped next to their table Hayden looked up. He heard Jessica's slight intake of breath he knew this boy would not notice, as her heart rate picked up. From her emotions it was clear she was infatuated with this boy, and he simply hoped the guy would not do something stupid. Hayden focused on the boy to see just was he was feeling, besides those emotions that were obvious from the dumbfounded look plastered on his face as he stared at Hayden. Hayden was used to this reaction from humans, males and females alike, so he ignored it as best he could. Hayden was satisfied when he felt no ill will towards Jessica in this boy. "I'm guessing this is your friend," Hayden said as he looked back to Jessica. He always tried to be careful with where and how he looked when speaking to humans, he did not like to draw them in needlessly, or unintentionally. Hmm.. OO.. Yea.. umm, Hayden, this is Josh. Josh, Hayden Jessica said nearly stuttering as she introduced them. Hayden felt Jessica's nervousness reach him as she looked from him to Josh. Josh simply stood silent once he regained a bit of self thought, then Hayden saw from the corner of his eye as the boy turned to face the door. Hey.. We gotta run J. See ya man, Hayden heard from Josh as Jessica stood up from the booth to follow saying her thanks and farewell as she followed Josh. "No problem kid," he said as she walked away. He heard her light laugh at him calling her kid as she walked through the door.
Hayden inhaled a small breath as he looked around the diner. So many people, so many lives. he thought.. Hayden wondered how many of them truly appreciated what they had. Not many I'll bet, he thought to himself with a disappointed sigh as he looked to his glass of water on the table in front of him.
Hayden looked up to the girl in the booth behind him, alone.. I better hit the pavement, he thought to himself as the waitress made her way to his table to clear off the dishes and he tore his eyes from the girl. As he stood to leave, Hayden placed a 20 on the table under Jessica's plate, sure that it would cover the bill and leave plenty for a tip. He then proceeded to walk out of the dinner, and into the night air.
Darkness had fallen over the city. As with most cities there were lights around from street lamps, headlights, and even light filtering out of business widows. But there were still plenty of shadows as well. Hayden often used the shadows, but what bothered him was the humans that often used the shadows as well. Normally those found in the shadows were up to no good. Some were helpable, some not. Hayden knew there would always be bad people on this earth who would always live off the pain and suffering they caused others, but at least with him around he could help save a few of those innocent people who, like he once was, was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. The knowledge brought a slight smile to his lips.

[Serena]

Skyla sat there eating her turkey sandwich as she thought about Edward Cullen and Eclipse. I wish I could meet a hottie like Edward. Or at least imagine up a character as yummy as him and write it down. I don’t know how Stephenie did it. Oh yeah that’s right. She dreamed him up. I wish my dreams were that good. I usually dream about stuff that’s happened in my life or something I saw on TV that I really liked. She thought as she finished the half of her sandwich she was eating and took a few swallows of her soda.
After she put her cup back down she wiped her hands on her napkin, put her earphones in her ear, and turned on her m3p player. The upbeat tune of The Joke by Lifehouse greeted her ears and she smiled as she picked up the rest of her sandwich. Just as she was about to let her mind drift off to what she was going to do when she got home she saw a boy walk up to the table the cute guy, whose name she remembered to be Hayden, and his maybe girlfriend were sitting at, and began to stare at Hayden. Maybe he’s gay. She thought as she looked from the new boy to Hayden to the back of the girl’s head since that was all she could see of her.
Skyla watched covertly as the cute guy began to speak. She couldn’t understand a word he said since her music was turned up loud, and she was very tempted to turn it down or just turn it off and pretend to be listening. Nah. I won’t do that. I’m not a nosy girl so I’ll keep my nose out of their business. She thought as she took a sip of her soda then went back to her sandwich. She watched as the boy stood there while Hayden spoke to his maybe girlfriend. Then she saw the boy finally speak and watched the girl get up quickly and speak to Hayden then leave with the boy.
I guess she’s not his girlfriend after all. Not that it matters to me. I’m not going to get up and talk to him or anything. She thought as she took a bite from her sandwich and began to get back into her music. She had been tuning it out even though she couldn’t hear what they were saying. She was more interested in watching Hayden while he was looking elsewhere and wouldn’t notice. By this time the song had switched to Learn You Inside Out by Lifehouse, and she let the words wash over her as she gazed at Hayden for a moment before she saw him beginning to look around and she looked away quickly, grabbing her soda to help disguise the move.
When she looked back she saw him getting to his feet and watched as he walked to the front of the diner and out into the night. Awwwww……he left! Now I can’t look at him anymore. I wonder where he’s going. Probably home. It is getting late after all. Or maybe he’s going to a friend’s house or even clubbing. Maybe he’s meeting up with a friend and they’ll go clubbing together. Hahaha. Okay enough of that before you end up laughing out loud and have all these people looking at you. She thought with a sigh as she finished the last bite of her sandwich and washed it down with a long drink from her soda.
She sat there for a few more minutes finishing off her soda when the waitress that served her came to give her, her bill and take the dishes away. Here you go. Was everything okay? She heard the lady ask her as she turned her music down and looked at the bill. $12.47 huh. She thought before she answered. “Yes. Everything was just fine. Thank you.” She said as she pulled out her wallet from her messenger bag and took out a ten and five dollar bill and placed it inside the small folder with the bill. The waitress smiled and took the folder with her as she left.
Skyla watched her until she disappeared behind two doors that she guessed led to the kitchen. Then she turned her music back up, picked up her book and put it safely inside her messenger bag so that she wouldn’t forget it, put her hat back on, and then waited for the waitress to return with her change.
A few minutes later the lady came and handed her the folder saying Thank you. Have a nice night. And walked away to clear another table. Skyla looked at the change and added four dollars to it and left it on the table, then got up and walk to the front of the diner and out the door.
Oh my gosh!!! It is freakin freezing out here. She thought as she paused outside the door with a violent shiver, and another one as the wind blew in her direction. Ugh! I should have worn long sleeves under this sweater. This always happens to me. Nice and warm during the day and I wear black anyway, but wear a t-shirt underneath. Then when it gets later it gets all cold, and I’m stuck freezing because I didn’t think to wear long sleeves since I was wearing black. Isn’t black suppose to hold in heat?! She thought as she walked to the bus stop from the direction she came in when she first arrived at the diner.
Skyla walked down the sidewalk confident, although with a constant shiver, as if she didn’t have a care in the world. She never worried about anything happening to her since she dressed in a way that would make people think she didn’t have anything valuable on her, and always walked as if she was use to hanging out on the streets after dark. At least that’s how she thought she walked; she was actually walking quite gracefully without even knowing it. She had done it many times before and everything went smoothly. Nothing had ever happened. That is until tonight.
As she walked she didn’t hear the footsteps behind her because she had turned her music up even louder to block out the roar of the wind blowing past her ears.
Just as she was about to pull her hood up over her hat she was grabbed around the waist from behind and thrown roughly into an ally. She hit the ground hard and rolled from the force until she hit a large garbage can. She groaned as pain traveled through her back and she got to her knees feeling a little dizzy. Her earphones had come out of her ears, but hung around her neck where she always draped them, her bag still hung across her body, and her hat had come off and lay on the ground a little away from her.
What a pretty little girl. What are you doing out here all alone without mommy? She heard a raspy low voice from the front of the ally say. Ugh! He thinks I’m a kid. That’s probably why he’s doing this. Looking young. My gift and my curse. She thought with a sad roll of her eyes as she looked up to the man. She couldn’t see him clearly since it was so dark, but she didn’t care. She got to her feet without answering, and stood at the ready. She had taken karate lessons and was damn good at Tai Kwan Do, and she wasn’t about to let some dirty old man mug her.
What’s this? You plan to defend yourself against little old me? he said in a teasing voice that made her shudder. Skyla hadn’t been lucky enough to have someone of the opposite sex talk to her in a teasing voice, but she had an instinct that told her that this was not meant in a good way. I was hoping that when a guy talked to me like this it would sound like what I imagined Edward Cullen to sound like. Not this nastiness. She thought as she looked at the man. “Damn straight. What do you want?” she said angrily. She still couldn’t believe that this was happening.
Oh come on. Don’t be like that. I just want whatever jewelry and money you have on you, you pretty little thing. He said as he stepped closer to her. Skyla stepped back keeping in her ready stance as she was trained to do, never letting her guard down. “I’m not wearing any jewelry, and I just spent my money on dinner just a few minutes ago so your outta luck.” She said, keeping her eyes on him but at the same time looking around for a way out.
Is that so. Well then we’ll just have to move on to plan B. she heard him say and she just knew that the ‘we’ he spoke of was not him and herself. She then heard a sound behind her and she ducked and spun to the side just in time to avoid another man who was about to put his hands on her. Oh no. she thought. It’s way to dark out here for me to try and take them both on. Not to mention this guy is way bigger then the other. She thought as her mind raced to find a way out of the situation while trying to keep fear at bay.
Skyla backed up away from the men keeping in her ready stand. She knew that she was backing further into the ally, but she didn’t have anywhere else to go and she couldn’t afford to take her eyes off the men to try and look around her for a possible way out.
Since you don’t have anything valuable for us to take we’ll just have a go with you. I realize this isn’t the most comfortable place, but I can’t afford a motel, and I doubt you’re worth it. He said as he approached her, taking quicker steps as he went.
She backed up as her breathing quickened and he got closer, but when she ran out of room to move back she lashed out with her left fist and again with her right, connecting with his face both time. She had never actually hit someone before and she knew that it would hurt, but she had no idea how much. She felt like she had broken all the bones in her hands, but she was glad that she caused him pain.
The pain of her hands distracted her from the other guy and she suddenly felt a searing pain on the side of her face that made her see stars and her eyes water. Then she felt a cold rough hand around her neck and felt herself being pushed up against the wall that she had stopped in front of at the end of the ally.
See. I was going to make this as painless as possible, but you just threw that out the window. She heard him say in a rough menacing voice as he squeezed her neck making her gasped. Her hands came up around his wrist and she tried to break his hold but he was too strong. Then she began to try some defensive moves that she had learned for these types of situations. She tried to do it quickly before the fear rushing through her consumed all rational thoughts, but she felt him yank her forward. Suddenly there was a big hand holding both her wrists behind her back and an arm around her neck to replace the smaller mans hand.
By this point she was shivering from both the cold and her fear. She couldn’t think straight and she could hardly breath for the arm that was around her neck. She noticed that he was squeezing tighter and tighter as she watched the smaller man in front of her unzip his pants.
She was starting to get lightheaded from lack of air, and her vision was becoming blurry as she felt him feeling under her large sweater searching for the button and zipper to her pants.
The fact that he had found what he was looking for was the last thing she was aware of before everything went black.

[stormy]

As Hayden stood outside the diner a moment enjoying the cool night air blowing past him, he considered making a run to change before hitting the streets as he did most nights. He preferred wearing black when making his rounds, and walking around in weather like this without a coat always drew too much attention.
With his mind made up Hayden glanced to the diner window, wondering once more about the dark haired girl inside. I might get back before she even leaves, he thought to himself. He had an apartment, but recently he had also rented a motel room that was close by for convenience. Hayden turned on a dime and headed south. It wasn't the best part of town, to say the least, but as usual, that's where he knew he would find the ones who needed his help the most. Using his vampire speed, Hayden reached his room in under five minutes. There, he changed into black jeans, a black long sleeve button up shirt, threw on his long black coat, and headed back out the door towards the diner. Soon after passing the bus stop close by the diner, Hayden smelt a familiar scent in the air. I guess she finished he food, he thought as he realized her scent traveled down a dark alley. Frowning, Hayden followed. He was not happy to smell the stench of two other humans he could tell did not keep the best hygiene standards.
Near the end of the alley Hayden spotted those he was looking for, they of course did not see him. When his eyes fell upon the girl he had to fight to hold back a growl. Lessons need to be learned, Hayden thought to himself.
"Hey, anybody got the time? I think I'm late for an interview," Hayden said, grabbing the attention of the two men. They both looked his way showing no fear. After all, there were two of them and only one of him. yea, two idiots, he growled to himself. "It's half past time for you to go man. We're busy!" Hayden heard from the smaller man. Hayden took a few steps closer so that the men would see him better. He looked from one man to the other, then to the girl. He wondered if she had been out long, and was glad by the looks of things he'd gotten there when he did. The fact that she was breathing evenly and the sound of her heart beating within her chest saved the men from seeing the true evils of nature.
"Yea, I'll leave. But she's coming with me, and if not for her state, I'd take the time to teach you both some manners." Hayden said as an icy glare took hold in his eyes. The men laughed, feeling sure that together they could take him out. Hayden hated this part. He knew they stood no chance, but they had no idea. He did not like hurting people, even though he knew sometimes it was needed. As the smaller man stepped toward Hayden, he allowed the man to take his swing without moving. At first the man looked as though he was going to laugh at Hayden's slowness, but once his fist made contact and he felt his hand collide with the hardness of Hayden's rib cage the smile was gone. It was swiftly replaced with a look of utter pain as the man looked down to his hand, wondering what could have happened. The larger man dropped the girl, "I have to do everything don't I" he said in a snarl as he stepped up to Hayden. Hayden looked down at the smaller man, now kneeling on the pavement. The man was not warning his "partner", he was looking at his had with tears forming in his eyes. Hayden looked back to the larger man in time to see his fist in mid swing. Taking a swift step to the side, Hayden avoided being hit, but that was not the point to moving. He tilted his head as though in innocent wonder as both men looked at him with shock in their eyes. What the.. the large man started. The smaller man said nothing still, he looked more frightened that anything as he looked from his hand to Hayden.
In a swift movement Hayden had both men pinned to the brick sidewall of the alley by there throats. He could feel the fear flowing through their very veins, and smell it coming off their flesh. "You know, I could snap your necks right here and now.. But where would the fun in that be?" Hayden said as he placed a little more pressure on the men’s necks, causing them to squirm. He hated seeing this side of himself, these types of creatures always brought out the "other" side of his personality, the side filled with hate and sorrow. P..Please.. Le... Let us go mister, the larger man gasped out. Hayden looked to his face. "Were you planning on letting her go unharmed?.. That's a rhetorical question in case you are not sure.. I already know the answer." Hayden said with disgusted tone lining his voice. He looked to the smaller, now silent, man. Hayden was sure his hand was crushed, and he was glad. The fact that the man had done it himself made it so much sweeter in his eyes. I need to get her out of here.. Not waist my time with this trash, Hayden thought to himself.
Looking to the larger man in his left hand, Hayden bent his left knee and placed pressure on the man's tibia bone. The man began whimpering as Hayden leaned in until he heard a snap. "Ok, so.. We have a broken hand, and broken leg. Here's how it goes, I'm getting her out of here, you two can get yourselves help. But, I will be around. And I will find you if you do anything out of line worse than telling a white lie. Do you understand?.. I will find you; I will hunt you down like the scum you are unless you stop these cowardice actions. And yes, I will find you. Even if you run, I will be there. Sleep on that tonight," Hayden said as he dropped both men to the alley floor. "And I would recommend keeping me a secret. No one will believe you, and I don't like gossip," Hayden added as he took a swift step back to the girl. He heard the men cringing in a mixture of fear and pain as he looked down to the girl. He had heard her heart beating strongly the entire time he had been in the alley, he knew she would be ok. So where should I take her, he considered.

[Serena]

Skyla thought she heard the voice of another man as she was falling unconcious and would have cried if she could. She was slightly glad that she wouldn't have to deal with another one of them, but didn't want to even think about what would happen once he made his way to them. Once everything was dark and she couldn't see anymore she knew that she had blacked out, but she could still feel the pain in her back and hands slightly, and hear the voices although she couldn't make out what they were saying. She then smelled a very nice fragrance among the hideous scents that she was able to make out in her current state, and she thought that was odd. To notice such a thing at that moment. Just as she was about to try and put a name to the pleasent scent she felt pain travel through her entire body ending with her head.
The last thing she remembered was the pain surrounding her head. Then nothing.

[stormy]

Hayden kneeled beside this young human stranger that seemed to practicly reach out to him. From her scent, to the odd conection with her emotions that kept occurring. Am I crazy to think this won't be the last I'll be seeing of you?.. he thought as he scooped her into his arms. With her safely in his arms Hayden turned his back to the men and left the alley with a speed unknown to humans, ignoring the cries and pleas of the two he left behind.
Hayden headed to the better side of town as he thought of what he should do with this girl. I can't take her home, I have no idea where that is.. Although I'm sure she has a wallet with an ID, but snooping through her things is not right.. I could take her too the hospital, but then she might panic when she wakes, thinking she's hurt when realy she's fine.. I could rent her a room. I'm sure she'd be able to get home from there once she woke.. he thought as he slowed his steps. The thought that her waking in his arms and noticing their speed might freak her out also occurred to him as well. Ok, so with those choices, do I leave her there, or stay until she wakes.. I don't know, she might freak out and think I was maybe with those two. That wouldn't be a good start. he thought as Hayden spotted a hotel off to his right. She should be comfortable there. he thought to himself as he looked down to her in his arms. crap.. he thought as he looked around to see if people had noticed them. Of course they have idiot! Your you, and carrying a passed out girl to top it off! he thought to himself as he reconsidered his whole slowing down idea. Too late to speed up now, he mentaly sighed to himself as he considered what to say to the host or hostess of the hotel about the unconscious person in his grasp. Maybe it'll be a woman.. That would realy be great.. he thought as he walked in the doors and saw a young man behind the counter. Can I help you sir?.. the boy asked as he looked from Hayden to the girl in his arms. Looking at the "boy", who was realy about 20 years old, Hayden was pretty sure on how to play this one out. "Yea, my date drank too much." he said, giving the boy an exasperated voice and slight pause as he checked the emotions surrounding him. Most seemed fine after hearing his expination, and he calmed those who still felt a little off by the sight. "I need a room so she can sleep it off. Her parents will never let her out if they see her like this." Hayden added. The "jock" looking youth gave him a smile that told Hayden far to much about this boys morals. He was thinking something far different from Hayden's explination. Ok, sir. Fill this out, and credit or cash? the boy asked. "How about you fill it out, and i'll give you a hundred.. Just get me to where I can put her down." Hayden said in a low voice so only the boy would hear. Yes sir, I see that you have a reservation.. Very well sir," the boy said with a smile on his face. Hayden nearly rolled his eyes at the boy as he took a card key and walked from around the counter. Hayden watched as the boy went to his superior and began to whisper. He heard clearly as the boy lied and said that Hayden was a V.I.P., and he needed someone to cover the front desk while he showed him to his room. The woman nodded her head as the boy walked away, and Hayden followed behind him to the elevator. They went to the top floor, and the boy slid the card into it's slot, opening the door to a massive room. Gee, wonder if she's ever seen a penthouse on the top floor first hand. Hayden laughed to himself as he walked through the rooms until he reached the bedroom, and placed her on the bed. Hayden then returned to the boy at the door, finaly paying attention to his uniform, he saw that the boy's name was Luke. "Thanks Luke, nice room." he said as he pulled out his wallet. It had to be this one for me to be able to show you to the room. Luke said with a nervous smile as he looked around. Can you afford the room?." he added in a rush as the thought crossed his mind that he could lose his job if Hayden skipped out on the bill. "Don't worry about it." Hayden said with a reassuring smile as he handed the kid his bill and sent him on his way.
Hayden went back to the girl, She'll be out a while, he considered as he looked at her. He could not denie she was pretty, and he truly wished to know what it was about her that kept pulling his to her. Shaking his head to break away the thoughts, Hayden walked over and pulled the messenger bag from around the girls body and placed it on the table beside the bed. He then proceeded to find her mp3 player, and place it and her headphones atop her bag. He then, gently, pulled the cover from under her and placed them over her body up to her shoulders.
Looking over her once more Hayden nearly kicked himself, he had not grabbed her hat from the ground. Not that she would want a hat that had fell on that grimy alley floor, but you never know. It might have ment something to her. he thought breifly as he looked at her sleeping so soundly. I'm sure i can go there and be back in less than ten minutes.. She'll still be out for sure. he thought as he stepped away from her. Hayden smiled as a thought came to him, he would not even need to use the front door. all of these rooms have balconies, he thought to himself as he spotted the double doors on the wall to the right of the bed. Perfect, he thought as he grabed a pen and paper. Just in case, he told himself as he scribbled a note.

Hello Stranger,
If you are reading this, I'm glad you've awoken, and sorry you were put in such a position. You made it out unharmed, in case you are worried. I'm running back to grab your hat for you. Sorry, but I left it behind unintentionally. You are free to make yourself comfortable in the room, I shall be back in a flash.. If you feel the need to leave before my return I completely understand.
Best wishes to you if I do not see you again.

Hayden placed the note, unsigned, on the pillow beside the girl before stepping out onto the balcony. He made it to the sidewalk, unharmed of course, in a flash without any human noticing. Then, using his vampire speed, Hayden hurried back to the alley where he hoped the hat would still be.

This post has been edited by stormy on Feb 28 2008, 06:23 PM

[Serena]

OOC: Skyla is still unconcious, and is unaware of her surroundings. She could wake up, but she is unconciously keeping herself from waking beacuse she's tramatized. She doesn't want to deal with what happened, so she continues to sleep.

[stormy]

As Hayden entered the alley he nearly laughed,. He knew right away the men were still right where he had left them. He chose to ignore their presence so that he could get back swiftly. As he bent down to pick up the black Giants hat, glad that it was still there for him to get for her, Hayden heard the two men take a quick breath and begin sliding back, pressing themselves against the wall, trying to get as far from him as possible. "As I said, I'll be watching." Hayden left them with those six words, and not even a glance as he headed back to the room where he wondered if he would find a sleeping beauty, or a wide awake human possibly freaking out this very moment. The though of her being awake and possibly scared caused Hayden to go even faster.
When Hayden reached the hotel, he looked up to see the balcony he had been standing on just minutes ago. The lights in the room were still very low, From here it looks as if she's still asleep, he thought as a peace in knowing she was ok washed over him. Ummm.. Ok, and where did that come from, he thought to himself as he made his way to the balcony, making sure with his speed not to be seen. When his feet landed flat upon the balcony floor Hayden stood silent as he checked to be sure whether or not the girl was awak, asleep, or gone. His ears easily picked up the sounds of her breathing, and the pulsating of her heart beats. The fact that they were the only room on that floor made it very very easy to spot her considering the crowded surroundings.
He opened the doors slowly and stepped into the room. After securing the doors shut, Hayden walked over and placed her hat beside her bag and mp3 player. He's eyes caught sight of the note laying, unred, upon the pillow beside her own. Hayden picked up the note, walked over to the dresser, and placed it atop the dresser.
Slowly, he turned back to see the, still sleeping, girl. I should not stay.. But what will she think, waking up in this huge room all alone.. I could write another note.. I could leave a little cash to be sure she could get home with a cab or something.. And what if she gets hurt again?.. Yea, that would not haunt me for ever.. Ok, I could watch her from a distance,.. just till she gets home. Hayden's thoughts ran across his mind at their own will as he stood, silently watching her. He was not sure what to do, but he was thinking, by the looks of thigs, he did not have to decide that very moment. So, he chose to pull the chair from beside the balcony doors over to the side of the bed and took a seat. He settled into the rather soft chair and looked across to the face facing him. There was no emotion written there, no signs of dreams. Her breathing was slow and steady, her heartbeat matched. Hayden was glad that she seemed to be having an untroubled sleep, but he did not like what put her into that sleep. He knew her mind had most likely shut down to save her from ever having to recall what would have been very upsetting memories.
Hayden pushed those thoughts aside, and took in a deep breath. The air flowed into his lungs and he held the breath for a moment, savoring her scent, memorizing it unintentionally. Again he noticed that her scent had an odd slightly "alluring" quality to it.
Hayden considered, as he released the air held within his lungs, that it might be a better idea to not breath around this human too much. But he knew that, for now at least, he did not want to stop taking in her scent. There was a definite coconut tone to her scent that he could not help but enjoy immensely. That's nice, he thought as he leaned back in the chair, closed his eyes, and simply sat inhaling her sweet-tropical scent. Hayden allowed his mind to relax as he continued sitting quietly. If a human were to enter they would have thought him alseep, and he may not have noticed right away, her scent was having an odd euphoric affect upon his mind.

This post has been edited by stormy on Feb 28 2008, 07:59 PM

[Serena]

Skyla sat in the black void that was her mind. She saw nothing, felt nothing, and heard nothing. That is until she suddenly found herself standing outside the diner. What?! She thought as she blinked and looked down at herself. She saw that she wasn't in the least bit dirty, she felt her earphones in her ears, and heard her music playing. Her hands flew up to her head and felt her hat still sitting there. She looked at her hands and noticed that there was no pain; she felt no pain anywhere on her body. I don't understand. she thought as she blinked rapidly and looked around. She was standing just outside the diner door as if she had just exited it. Wait a minute. she thought as she looked up and down the street. I already left the diner, and was on my way home when... she let the thought trail off as images of the ally and men flashed in her mind allowing her to remember exactly what happened.
Skyla closed her eyes and shook her head violently, trying to get rid of the images. I remember that happening, but how am I here if it happened already. she thought as she opened her eyes and looked down the sidewalk where she remembered walking once she had left the diner. Did I imagine that whole thing? she thought with a concerned frown. She was worried; she didn't understand why she would make up something as horrible as what had happened. Whatever. she thought with a sigh. As long as it didn't really happen. I can think about why my crazy mind would come up with something like that when I get home. she thought as she felt the cold wind blow in her direction.
She shivered violently and let out a sad, frightened whimper. She remembered that, that was how the ally incident she had 'made' up had started, and wasn't sure if it was some kind of omen of what was going to happen. She didn't want to find out one way or the other, so she began to walk to the bus stop, leaving her music at the volume it was at and continuously looked over her shoulder. Even if she had imagined the ally incident she wasn't going to let the same thing happen again. As she walked she saw the ally in question up ahead, and a wave of fear flowed through her. Maybe I should go a different way or something. she thought as she paused in her walking. She looked up and down the street and saw that no cars were coming, so she hurried to the other side of the street, deciding to avoid the ally all together.
When she reached the end of the sidewalk she stood at the corner waiting for the light to turn green when she suddenly felt arms come around her waist. Her eyes widened and she gasped as she was dragged into an ally she hadn't noticed was there. Oh my god! This isn't happening, this isn't happening. she thought franticlly as her breathing quickened. She could feel her heart crashing against her chest as she was pushed up agianst a wall. "No. No." she screamed, and saw the man speaking. She couldn't hear a word he was saying over the sound of her heartbeat, and she didn't want to know. She began to struggle and immediately felt something colide with the side of her head. She cried out, but slumpt to the ground as everything went black.
Next thing Skyla knew she was once again standing out in the cold in front of the diner. She looked around bewildered, and then began to panic. Everything was becoming clear to her. She realized that the ally incident had really happened, that she was still unconcious, and was having some kind of horrible nightmare. What is this? Why is this happening? I couldn't just be unconcious like normal people. No. I had to be stuck in some kind loop. Going over this terrible night over an dover. she thought as she leaned against the wall of the diner, letting her fear and confusion over the situation sink in.
"What do I do?" she said to herself as she looked up and down the sidewalk, afraid of what would happen if she moved from that spot.

[stormy]

As Hayden's mind slowy drifted he considered that he should really go, before she woke up. He was not sure of how long he had been sitting there, his mind lost to this euphoric type state, but he was sure that she could wake up sooner rather than later by now. I don't wanna go, his own voice pouted within the walls of his mind. At this moment he was the closest to sleep as he had ever been in the past 90 years. It was something he had no explanation for, but something he liked no matter the reason behind it.
His mind relaxed, his eyes closed to the worl, Hayden sudenly felt a fear enter his body that he had not felt in a long long time. Hayden's eyes shot open and went straight to the girl. It was clear that her emotions had, once again, linked to him without his even trying. He watched as her breathing became heavy, and heard as her heart began beating faster and faster. It was not him causing this fear in her, for she was still unconcious, that was clear. She must be having a bad dream, he thought. "One she really doesn't like," he added in a low worried tone. "I guess I'll be sticking around for a bit," he said to himself as he wondered how well his powers would work to calm her. He was pretty sure they would work just fine, but with the state of her mind he wondered if she would fight the effects. He hoped that by easing her fear her mind would go into another dream until ready to wake, but he had no control over what her mind would show her. That was all up to her.
Hayden clasped his hands on his lap, now leaning slightly forward in the chair, closed his eyes, and focused on only her. He sent her calming emotions as he focused on the thoughts as well. If he did not, her own fears would become as though his own, for he felt them as strongly as she.

This post has been edited by stormy on Sep 16 2008, 10:28 AM

[Serena]

Skyla leaned against the wall wondering what in the world she was going to do. Maybe I can wake up some how. she thought as she slid down the wall and sat on the ground. She looked around, paranoid. She felt as if she were being hunted in this nightmare. She stood up intending to walk the path she had taken twice now, but fear gripped her and she collapsed back to the ground.
As Skyla sat there trying to breath through her fear she suddenly felt herself getting calmer. How is this happening. I didn't do anything to feel this way. she thought as she looked around wildly. She thought breifly that it was apart of the nightmare, and that she would get all relaxed and end up being scared so badly that she would have a heat attack. Whatever. Don't doubt this. Just go along with it. Use it to help you find a way out of this situation. she thought as she closed her eyes and breathed deeply. She quickly pushed her doubt aside, feeling as though this calming effect wasn't apart of what her crazy mind had conjured up for her.
She sat there feeling calm and at ease. She decided to focus on the music she had been ignoring to help her relax. This calming effect is weird. I feel....safe even though I'm in this weird dream. she thought as she felt herself becoming calmer and calmer. This is my mind and my dream, so I should be able to control this....at least that's what people say in the movies. she thought with a slight chuckle. Okay just think of something...else. Focus on something, anything that is more pleasent than what happened. she thought as she closed her eyes and racked her mind for something that would make her smile or laugh, and she remembered the cute guy from the diner. What was his name? What was his name? she thought as she pictured his short sandy brown hair, his really nice arms, and the blue button up shirt he wore. She wished that she had been able to get a better look at him to see what color his eyes were. Hayden. her mind whispered to her, and she smiled. "Yes that's his name. I wish I could remember his voice. Great! The one time I decide not to be nosy is the one time I really should have been." she said to herself as she continued to picture him. She opened her eyes and gasped. Hayden was standing right in front of her.

[stormy]

As Hayden focused on the emotions he knew he needed he piictured home, he focused on calm, safe thoughts, waiting to see how she responded. At first he felt doubt, she was not sure if she should trust these emotions Hayden was sending her. But then Hayden smiled, there was acceptance. Her heart rate slowed, her breathing became calm, and her emotions settled to a peaceful calm. Hayden was glad to know she was feeling better, and that her mind was now at peace. As he began to pull away Hayden paused as he felt a new wave off emotion wash through her. Hayden had an idea of what she could have been dreaming a moment ago, causing such anxiety to flow from her very core, but this was the exact opposite, and he wondered what it was playing through her mind to bring her such a feeling.
That's none of my business, he thought to himself as he pulled from the emotional link. Hayden looked to her face as he considered his next move. He did not like the idea of leaving before she woke incase she needed him again, but he was not sure he wished to explain his part in everything either.
Making up his mind on he needed to do, Hayden walked to the dresser and picked up the note he had left the first time.

Hello Stranger,
If you are reading this, I'm glad you've awoken, and sorry you were put in such a position. You made it out unharmed, in case you are worried. I'm running back to grab your hat for you. Sorry, but I left it behind unintentionally. You are free to make yourself comfortable in the room, I shall be back in a flash.. If you feel the need to leave before my return I completely understand.
Best wishes to you if I do not see you again.

Hayden read over the words as he picked up a pen.

I hope you feel better with this new day. Call a cab, please don't walk, or ride a bus, even if you are close to home. And do not worry, the shadows will not come for you again. You are safe.
Take care Stranger, perhaps I shall see you again.

Hayden wrote the few extra lines below the first half of the note. Looking at the words he hoped they would be enough to ease her fears, if any were left. He then placed the note and a 50 atop her messenger bag before taking a last glance close up. Hayden then inhaled her scent once more as he walked to the balcony doors. Outside he looked up into the sky to see that the few stars visible in this city were begining to fade from even his view. I'll wait here till she wakes, stay out of site, and follow only until she makes it safely home.. That way, if needed i'm there, and if not, well, at least my mind will be at ease. Hayden thought to himself as he closed the balcony doors between them and sat down on the balcony floor, leaning back against the building.