Night Life

[Serena]

The wind blew hard and the rain came down even harder as his car moved along the dark waterlogged streets. The storm didn't bother Andrew but he found it highly annoying that it had to pick the day he moved into the city to start.
At least I don't have to worry about moving my things in this weather. he thought as he made a right turn down a main street.
He had bought and had his things moved into his apartment the previous week so he wouldn't have to worry about it on the day he decided to come into the city. He knew that he could have avoided all the hassle and moved into his house since he had one in the city, but he wanted to do things a little different this time around and living in an apartment building was one way of doing that.
Andrew sighed as he slowed to a stop at a red light, his silver eyes absently following the motion of the windshield wipers as they slid back and forth across the glass. He had no idea what he was going to do now that he was back in the city of his birth. He didn't know whether or not he wanted to play the high schooler who was emancipated for whatever reason he could come up with, the freshmen in college, or skip education all together and work some place.
Maybe I'll give it a couple of days. he considered as he pressed the gas peddle when the light turned green. I can always be a late enroller in high school and I'm sure I can charm my way into any college or university. Hmm...it might be amusing to start as a senior in high school.
Andrew pondered that as he paused at a stop sign. It would be amusing to watch the teenage life of hundreds play out and he was sure that most of the girls would be too shy or scared to approach him, but then it would be annoying to have to listen to the whispered conversations about him and the pep talks girls would give themselves before they tried to talk to him. Not to mention he wasn't sure he had the patience this time around to act the part of a teenager as far as being treated like a kid went.
made it home. call u later he texted his sister as he pulled into the garage door opening next to the building that led to the parking slots behind the building. He placed his phone on the passenger seat and pulled into an empty spot wishing that the cars were shielded from the elements as he turned off the engine.

[stormy]

"And don't forget to call when you get there..."
"Ok mom. We should be there soon.. And I'll call once everything is inside." Destiny replied as she held off a sigh.
"Ok.. But don't forget." her mom said back. Destiny could tell from the hesitant tone that her mom was considering arguing her waiting till after they unload the car before she called. But really! they were already almost there, and Destiny knew if she called before unloading she'd be of no help to Jenni. 'I'm not about to let it all be stuck on her' she thought to herself as she looked out the window. The storm blowing this way and that was just the kind of weather she enjoyed, but not when trying to carry boxes and bags inside. "I really need to go mom. We are almost there and we'll need to get everything in as quick as we can considering the rain. Jenni's going to need my help. But I love you and I promise to call soon." Destiny spoke into the phone, being sure to make her point clear and leave her mother no room to carry on further considering she would already be calling back later. A promise is a promise, and to Destiny those were meant to be kept.
"Ok baby. I love you too. Be safe."her mom answered. She held back a sigh as she hit end & slid her phone close.
"Soo.. We expecting any neighbors anytime soon??" Jenni's false curious tone reached her as Destiny was rolling her shoulders and pressing her back into the beige leather seat. The words made her freeze in mid action. "Don't even joke about stuff like that. It's just mean and you know it " Destiny replied. But Jenni got what she was after, a smirk spread across each of their faces. That was one thing she loved about her friend, she could ease her tension, but never required a play by play of the half of the conversation she'd just heard only half of. "I can't believe I'm really here." Destiny pointed out a tone that revealed her relief as she considered how possible Jenni's playful remark could be. 'I know right. I seriously expected her to hide you in some trunk or something when you got that acceptance letter' Jenni said with a smile & half laugh. It would have been funnier if it were something she actually "couldn't" picture Destiny's mom really doing. "Yeah" Destiny replied. "And if I hadn't tossed out the others there is no way she wouldn't have done something just like that " she added as they pulled into a parking lot.
'Ok, according to Grandma, this should be it..' Jenni said as she pulled into a parking spot and shifted into park.
"I can't believe you've never even seen your grandmother's apartment." Destiny said with a small laugh and a shake of her head. She was hoping for some reassurance that it wasn't going to be a nightmare once she at least saw the exterior, but honestly with the dark clouds from the storm and rain drops affecting the view she couldn't be sure of anything just yet.
'She's not had it long, and she usually came out to visit us.. So I hadn't really had a chance or reason to see it' Jenni replied. '... Till now.' she added with a small shrug.
Destiny and Jenni were going to be living in Jenni's Grandmother's apartment. It had recently been remodeled, causing grandma to move in with Jenni's parents, and was still currently empty since grandma seemed rather satisfied where she was. "So our lucky ace in the hole is an unseen grandma's place.." Destiny thought aloud. The moving there was the easy part, she had no trouble packing her bags and getting out.... But now they were here, on the verge of that unknown. She had to admit she was starting to feel a little nervous. 'At least it was recently redone right? So that means everything should be fresh and working, and hopefully no old smell.. I love grandma, but moth balls are not a scent I want to carry to campus.' Jenni pointed out, her nose crinkling with the end of her statement as she pictured the smell.
"Well lets grab a few things and go take a look, then we can come back and forth for the rest." Destiny said as she unhooked her seatbelt and threw her messenger bag strap over her head to rest on her shoulder. "If we don't decide to just try and leave it till tomorrow that is.." she added as she grabbed a few bags from the seat behind her and headed out into the rain. She had heard Jenni's agreement just as she was popping the door with her left hip to get it to swing shut. Then off they both went running for the entrance and cover it provided..

[Serena]

Andrew sighed as he unbuckled his seatbelt and pulled his key from the ignition. He wondered how long he could go without calling his sister before she called him, or worse, before she decide to storm into the city and visit him.
Probably not long. She'll expect me to call in a few hours. He thought as he noticed a car pull in a few spaces from him.
He watched two ladies get out and run towards the building entrance carrying bags. That was all he needed to see to know that he wasn't the only newbie in the building that day. The only question was were both of them moving in or just one?
Maybe the real question is do I care? He considered as he shoved his phone and keys into the pockets of his dark blue jeans and got out of his car. I'm not sure I should be making friends with my new neighbors. Maybe I'll be a recluse or just the creepy guy who wears dark clothes and doesn't like to talk. he thought with a small smile as he made sure his doors were locked before calmly walking through the thousands of raindrops pelting his cool skin and towards the entrance.
Nah. It's bad enough that what I am will make me come across as strange. I don't need to add to that. Maybe I'll just see where things take me and give it some time like with what I'm going to do in this city. He considered as he made his way to the stairs and began to climb to the top floor. Maybe getting my apartment set up will help me make some decisions. he thought as he continued up another flight of stairs.
He had simply had everything placed inside the living room since he wanted to have something to do when he finally moved in. There were a few things he needed to actually take out of boxes and put together, like his bed frame, the kitchen table and chairs, and a couple of bookcases. Then he would need to move things into place. It was tedious work but he didn't mind. It wouldn't take him long and it wasn't as if he needed to sleep.

[stormy]

As Destiny and Jenni made it to the cover of the building entrance they were both glad to be free of the falling rain. "Only a few bags down, and already drenched" Destiny said with a small laugh as she shook some of the rain drops from her & her the bags she was clenching. She looked up at Jenni's silence to see her staring off up the stairs they were about to climb. 'Is it really that bad?' she wondered as she turned around to follow her friends gaze. She caught the glimpse of someone making their was up the stairs. "Umm, Hellooo." Destiny said as she leaned into her friends line of sight. Hmm? Jenni asked with on a slight dazed note. You ok? Destiny asked as she looked from her friend to the stairway. The stranger, or who she expected to be a stranger, was already gone from her line of sight. Oh.. yeah. Here, lets go ahead and get the key. Jenni replied. Did you see him? Jenni asked as she nodded her head up the stairway, gesturing toward the "stranger". No.. Do you know themhim? Destiny asked as they started up the stairs and headed for the second floor.

This post has been edited by stormy on Jan 22 2012, 05:46 PM

[Serena]

"Only a few bags down, and already drenched" Andrew heard one of the two new girls in the building say as he reached the second floor. He paused on the landing and closed his eyes in dismay. Of all the sounds that he was picking up in this building, all the heartbeats, the footsteps, the shifting of various things, sniffling, coughing, dripping water, conversations, music, T.V.'s, the wind battering the building and finding cracks and drifting through the hallways. Of all these sounds her voice had to be the one that his sensitive ears seemed to home-in on.
The silver-eyed vampire opened his eyes and continued to the next set of stairs with a weary sigh. He had no idea what it meant that her voice seemed to come to him, and he wasn't sure what to do about it or if he should do anything.
Maybe I should stay away from this girl. he considered even as he ears picked up her voice yet again.
"Umm, Hellooo." he heard as she seemed to try and get the other girls attention.
Hmm? the other girls voice came on a slightly dazed tone and he knew that the girl must have seen him.
"You ok?" he heard the girl whose voice was starting to haunt him say.
Oh.. yeah. Here, lets go ahead and get the key he heard the other girl reply. Did you see him? she added and he found himself pausing on the stairs to hear the answer.
"No.. Do you know him?" the haunting voice answered and he continued on his path to his apartment, hurrying up the remaining flights to the fifth floor so that she wouldn't get the chance to see him that day. He also didn't want to see her. If her voice was enough to standout to him then he didn't want to imagine what seeing her face would do to him.
Just focus on getting into your apartment and getting it all set up. he told himself as he stepped in front of his door and pulled his keys from his pocket. Just focus on that and her voice should go away. he continued with his inner coaching as he unlocked his door and stepped inside the gloomy apartment.
Andrew stepped next to a side door as he entered the small hallway and closed the door. After walking down the hallway he flipped the light switch and was greeted by bright white walls and a dark wood floor covered in boxes and furniture. He tossed his keys on the kitchen counter and walked over to one of the two closed doors. He found his bathroom with white tile on the walls and creamy-tan tiles on the floor. The other door led to his bedroom which had the same white walls and dark wood floor as the living room and kitchen area. He slid open one side of the closet and found a nice sided space for his limited amount of clothing and shoes.
The remodeling looks good. I'm glad I chose white for the walls. It definitely makes it look bigger. he thought as he belatedly flipped on the overhead light.
He had only been inside the apartment twice before. The first time to actually see what it looked like and the second to look over the place after the remodeling. It had been hideous before then with tan colored carpet throughout the hallway, living area, and bedroom. It had stains in many areas and after focusing on it for a few moments he realized that it had been white at some point in the past. The kitchen area and bathroom floor had been covered in some white look-a-like tile that was peeling in places and told him that it had been stuck to the floor like a sticker and that its adhesive was wearing off. The walls were a dingy white with all kinds of markings and little holes and some big holes here and there. And the balcony, the balcony was gross. There were stains and sticky substances on the tile and the tiles themselves were chipped in many places. The glass doors looked as if a good wind would blow them in they were so loose.
The balcony looks good now. he thought as he stepped over to the doors and looked out at the view. Apartment buildings and houses met his gaze as he looked passed the rain and wind pelting the glass. Sadly, he knew that he wouldn't be able to enjoy the sun from inside his apartment or from the balcony. The tops of the buildings across from him would have a good view of the sparkling show he would be giving off.
"Note to self: get some curtains for the glass doors and windows." he said softly before turning away from the glass doors and making his way to the small hallway that led to the apartment door. He opened the side door and glanced around at the small storage closet and wondered what he would put in there.
Time will tell. he thought as he closed the door and walked back to the living room. He glanced around at the boxes and furniture and decided to move everything to the space they would eventually rest in, so he picked up a box full of his clothes and headed to the bedroom.

This post has been edited by Serena on Jan 22 2012, 08:41 PM

[stormy]

No... But wow.. He was.. I don't know. It was only a quick look, so maybe I'm wrong.. Jenni started her explanation but then seemed to have reconsidered her thoughts as they climbed one step after another. He's what?? Destiny's mind questioned, but Destiny wasn't sure if she should ask. It wasn't like her friend to be shifty with her own thoughts and words. That was one of Destiny's favorite things about her, they were both pretty straight forward kind of girl. Destiny looked over to her friends dark wet curls with a raised eyebrow as she considered the possibilities. Did he look creepy and scare her? Jenni wasn't easy to frighten.. Was he cute and droll worthy? Did he remind her of someone though she said she didn't know him.
Jenni looked her way with knowing eyes as she found Destiny watching her rather than her own steps. My half sentence is bugging you isn't it? Jenni asked with a laugh. I'll admit I was questioning if I should ask you about it or not, when usually I'd just ask.. Destiny answered as Jenni's eyes went back to watch her footing, Destiny's did the same. Their apartment was supposedly just redone, but Destiny had to wonder if they had forgotten about the steps. They were definitely usable, but did have a few spots that could easily catch the wrong footed type person. I just don't want to say he was drop dead gorgeous with a god model like look going on if I'm completely wrong.. I have been driving a while after all. Jenni said in a tone as if she was sure it was worth blowing off. Someone else might have bought it, but this was Destiny, and she knew her friend. Plus, she'd just seen her reaction to seeing the guy..
I don't buy it. Destiny simply said with an 'I know better than that' tone. Jenni shot her a side glance as she gave a slight blush He really did look.. hot.. Extra hot.. she said with a small laugh taking over the exasperated look she'd shot her less that 10 seconds ago.
Well, if he lives here and we see him again I'll give you my opinion as well. Destiny said with a wink. One of the ways these two friends were very different was in how Jenni could so easily get worked up and "into" a guy. Destiny kind of of worried she'd end up falling for the wrong guy before she even knew what she was in for.. Trust me, 'if' it wasn't just tired eyes dreaming, you'll see I definitely was not exaggerating. Jenni replied with a dreamish smile that caught Destiny's eye. Ok. Ok.. Destiny laughed. But for now how about we find our front door.. Where is it anyway?.. What floor? Destiny asked. Jenni kinda of glanced around and then back at a sheet of paper she'd been looking at on and off through out their trip. It had the address, some directions, a few things to look for and some contact numbers in case needed to help them reach their location. Well, she didn't mention the floor number.. Jenni said on a thoughtful note. But, she added as Destiny gave her a side glance verging on annoyance. It looks like from the apartment number we are on the 5th floor.. she continued, ending on a slightly apologetic and cringing note. Destiny sighed as she shook her head. The fifth floor.. she laughed on a half whisper. Begers can't be choosers right. she said with a smile to Jenni as she looked for the humor in having to climb all those steps daily.. Maybe there was an elevator they over looked in their rush from the rain??? No wonder your grandma was willing to let us stay here and her take over your house with your parent. Destiny added on a small laugh as they continued up the stairs. I think you are right. Jenni said as she leaned to her right to bump her shoulder against Destiny's in a playful manor.
The action caused Jenni to loose her footing. As her arms went up, her hands clutching at the air as if it could pull her back up, the bags she was carrying went flying and Destiny's heart leapt into her throat as adrenalin filled her veins in an instinctive reaction and her arms went out to catch and brace her friend. Destiny pushed against Jenni's back to right her, giving Jenni just enough leverage to brace herself with her left foot and barely having to put any pressure on her hands when they came in contact with the steps still beneath her. But the action that helped her friend caused Destiny to loose her own footing, and Jenni had no time to catch her. Destiny's back hit hard first and then came her head that Destiny tried bracing with her hands as she felt the pressure from one steps and then another as she slid down about five steps on her back. Destiny knew even though she hadn't really heard it that Jenni had cried out in scared surprise as she had first lost her footing, and she saw the action again rather than hearing it as Jenni saw Destiny now falling against the steps in her place. due to the sounds around her being muffled by the adrenaline rushing through her veins Destiny barely even heard her own screams. The first one when she lost her own balance escaped out of an instinct of fear for what was to come, and the second released as the pain of her body weight throwing her into the steps flowed through her nervous system.
Oh my gah Destiny! Jenni said as she tried rushing to her friend. Are you ok!??

[Serena]

As Andrew was carrying his second box of clothing to his bedroom he heard a scream which caused him to pause because he recognized the voice as the other girl who was with the girl with the haunting voice. As soon as that recognition came he heard another scream which was quickly followed by yet another scream, both from the girl with the haunting voice.
He stood as still as a statue as he wondered what happened and what to do. Were they attacked? He listened carefully for an added heartbeat to the area the two girls were in but found nothing. It was just the two of them. So was it an accident then? Could one or both of them have fallen in the hallway or down the stairs?
Andrew quickly debated his options. He could either go help or he could ignore it. He didn't like the fact that he felt compelled to help because one of the screaming voices had come from the one that was haunting him, but even so he didn't let the compulsion rule him. It was easy to ignore after years of struggling to resist human blood.
What would happen if I did go help? One girl would most likely realize that she hadn't imagined my attractiveness, and the other would be reacting to me for the first time. Perhaps it would distract her from the pain she must be in since her last scream sounded like she was in pain. But then my presence could also distract the other girl and prevent her from being able to think clearly to get help if it was needed. he considered quickly. Besides, would a human have heard their screams from this floor? Probably not, so my rushing down would only cause questions and give me unwanted attention. he concluded but sighed as he continued to act as a statue.
Even though his reasoning was sound he still wanted to go help. The girls haunting voice screaming in fright echoed through his mind making it all the more difficult to ignore what he had just heard, but he also wanted to make sure the girls were okay and not seriously hurt.
Seriously hurt....they might need to go to the hospital if their injuries are bad enough. the silver eyed statue frowned in worry, but then a disturbing and dangerous thought came to him. What if one or both of them are injured enough to be bleeding? One whiff and the scent might be enough to end their lives. he thought wearily. One of the girls voice was already haunting him. He had been concerned earlier about what seeing her face would do to him, now he could only imagine the horror of catching the scent of her blood.
Andrew grimaced as his mind supplied exactly what would happen. His eyes would turn pitch black and then he would latch on to her neck, his cold hands bringing her neck to his mouth where his teeth would sink into her thin skin, biting into a major artery and draining her of every drop of her life sustaining blood. Once her heart stopped he would turn his attention to the other girl since even if she was in a daze she wouldn't conveniently forget that she knew the now dead girl and that said dead girl had been very much alive the last time she checked. So he would grab her and drain her dry. All of this would happen in a matter of seconds. Once the predator part of his mind was sated he would come to his senses and realize what he had done and that he would have to get rid of the bodies and make sure that no one had seen him come to the girls. But then he was sure that he wasn't the only one to have heard their screams and come to see what happened and what could be done. More people would have to die and then he would be right back to where he started when he killed the men that had attacked him and his mother so many years ago. Images of that ill-fated night flashed through his mind, the sounds of their terrified screams, looking in the mirror and seeing his eyes red for months afterward.
Andrew shook his head as he set the box in his arms down and went to sit on his black couch. Only seconds had passed since he heard the first scream. Sometimes he hated how advanced his mind was, that it could picture scenarios in vivid detail, but the last part at least helped to ease his worry of the girls. Others had to have heard their screams and gone to see what the problem was, so there was no reason for him to rush down there and put himself into a position that he might end up regretting.
No need to see the face to go with the haunting voice, no need to possibly expose himself to the sight or smell of blood, no need to bring on unwanted attention.
No, he would just sit here and listen. That was all he could safely do.

[stormy]

'Are you ok?' the fear in her friends tone reached her through the haze of shock and pain as her hands first fumbled through her hair as if to be sure her head was still in one piece, and then went to the hard structure beneath her. Her hands confirmed she was on the cold hard steps they had been walking up only seconds ago.
'Everything ok?' Destiny heard the question from a new voice, but unwilling just yet to open her eyes she had squeezed tightly shut, she had no idea where he was as he voiced the concern. 'She fell.' Destiny heard Jenni state the obvious. Clearly her friend was not in her calm regular mind set, because any other time she would have been sure to add a sarcastic note to that 'as if it should need to be said' statement. 'I see.' she heard the voice reply as Destiny began to pry her eyes open. She could see Jenni knealing beside her with her hand reaching out to her but slightly away as though she were afraid to touch her in her current state.
"This is not the best start off ." Destiny pointed out on a strained note as she began bracing herself with her hands to move into a sitting posision. 'Maybe you shouldn't sit up just yet.' she heard the stranger point out as Jenni's eyes left him to look her way. Destiny found herself considering if this might be the stranger who caught Jenni's eye before. Perhaps he had just reached his floor when he heard the comotion and was kind enough to come and try help.. "If I wasn't practically upside down sprawled out on some rather uncomfortable stairs I might agree with you .." Destiny replied with a groan as her eyes cut his way and she sat up. It definitely did not cause the most pleasant feelings as her back muscles streatched and moved to put her in this new position as she went even further as to turn herself around so she was now facing down the steps and at least able to rest more comfortably.
Destiny's eyes had caught a glemps of the stranger with them, but with her determined actions she hadn't given herself a chance to actually look at him. Now her eyes were closed as she breathed in and out.. in and out.. Luckily she's always done pretty well with handling pain. Plus, she was the stubborn sort and a stranger was there, no way she would let herself break down in front of him..
Destiny felt a hand rest lightly on the small of her back.. She knew without checking it was Jenni, and though she wasn't much for coddling it gave her comfort to have the one person she really considered a friend with her. Destiny let out a long slow breath, and opened her eyes. 'Destiny.. I'm so so sorry 'Jenni said as she sat knealing beside her. "Dont worry, next time I'll just let you fall .. Destiny told her as she leaned slightly to her right to graze her friend with her shoulder. It was the same action Jenni had attempted that had gotten them into this current mess, and Destiny instanlt regreted it as pain shot through her and her body stiffined.
'Are you two new to the building, or just visiting?'Destiny was reminded by the voice that someone else was there and both her & jenn's eyes followed the sound to its owner. This time she was able to see that the guy had dark hair and eyes with a skin tone that looked slightly tanned without the leathery dry affect. She also noted that he seemed rather tall, but that fact could be largely due to their current possisioning. "hmm?" she questioned him as though she hadn't heard his question as she also noticed he was looking around at theit strewn bags. She wasn't sure whether or not she really wanted to answer. 'We are new to the building' Jenni asnswered, solving the internal should I shouldn't I questions running through Destiny's mind. 'Oh.. I didn't think I'd seen you around.' he replied as he looked from Destiny over to Jenni."You live here?". Destiny asked with a slight groan escaping as she stood up. 'Yeah.. Hear, let me help you.' he answered as he offered help and reached forward. As Destiny reach out her hand to hold him back she saw Jenni hold her hand out to block his way as well as she shook her head at him. Destiny saw the questioning gaze he gave Jenni as he pulled his hands back and decided to make himself useful by picking up their scattered bags. That's ok. Destiny told him, her words letting him know in her opinion he didn't need to pick up their things. 'Clearly I don't get to be the white knight that carries you away and makes you suddenly forget what just happened, so at least let me help with your things.' he told her as he picked up another bag and gave her a smile. 'She's just stubborn.' Jeni pointed out with a wink at Destiny as she picked up a few of the bags around her feet.
Destiny rolled her eyes at the comment.
'Yeah.. I can tell..' the stranger commented back to jenni with a smile as they began a slow precession up the stairs with Destiny leading the way as if they were afraid she might need to be caught any moment. "I wouldn't have fallen if I wasn't catching you Jenni, so I doubt I'm going to now.. How about you two take the bags on up and I'll meet you there when I can." Destiny told them as she made her way up one step at a time. 'Uhh.. Sure Des..' She said as she stepped around her and looked at her face. Destiny knew she was gaging if she meant it, but if she hadn't she wouldn't have said it. Jenni knew that.. So up they went.
"Hollar if you need me." Destiny told her with a nod towards the still nameless stranger. 'Sure thing.' Jenni replied with a half laugh and a shake of her head. She knew Destiny meant it. No matter what was going on, if her friend or family needed her she'd be there. 'We can head back down once we drop off the bags.' he offered with a glance her way. "No.. But thanks.." Destiny said. "what's your name by the way? she asked as they rounded a corner on the stairs. 'Josh ' he called back to her with a quick peak back around the corner to give her a smile before disapearing with her friend.
Destiny couldn't help but wonder if she should have just put up with them following behind her to keep Jenni close and not letting them dissapear together. But then she knew that everything would mostly be fine anyways. Plus, Jenni would never be an easy take down. Not even by big city crazies standards..

[Serena]

Oh my gah Destiny!...Are you ok!?? Those were the first words he heard after the screams and he hummed slightly as he was inadvertently given the name to the girl who owned the haunting voice. Destiny. He admitted that he liked it. It was unique and original and he wondered if there had been any specific reason for her parents to give her that particular name.
Everything ok? Andrew heard a male voice question Destiny.
She fell. he heard the second girl reply, and he was becoming uncomfortable with the fact that Destiny hadn't spoken yet. Was she unconscious? Was she too injured to speak? Was anything broken?!
I see. Again the male voice sounded and it was frustrating him. Was Destiny okay or not?!
"This is not the best start off." Finally the haunting voice rung through his sensitive ears and he nearly sighed. She didn't sound seriously injured so that was good.
Maybe you shouldn't sit up just yet. the male voice again. Andrew knew he was right. If something was broken it was possible that she just didn't know it yet, that her movement could make it known and shift it out of place at the same time. However, who did this guy think he was to be telling her what she can can't do. She should be able to tell what was wrong with her own body and decide if it was a good idea to move or not.
"If I wasn't practically upside down sprawled out on some rather uncomfortable stairs I might agree with you." Andrew heard Destiny say with a groan and he couldn't stop the small smile that curved his lips. He had a feeling that he would like her attitude, and then he frowned at himself. It didn't matter if he would like her attitude or not! He wasn't planning on meeting the girl whose voice was haunting him after only hearing it once. He was simply concerned if she was okay or not since he wasn't a complete monster. Once he knew for sure that she didn't need to be taken to the hospital then he would tune out their voices and get back to arranging his new home to his liking.
Destiny.. I'm so so sorry. Destiny's friend apologized and he gathered that the fall must have been her fault somehow.
"Dont worry, next time I'll just let you fall". he heard Destiny reply and he smiled unconsciously, realizing that she must have saved her friend from a bad fall and ended up taking one herself. That was nice of her. He couldn't remember the last time he had seen or heard of human friends doing such things for each other.
Well Andy, she sounds like she's fine. Maybe a bit bruised but fine none the less, so now you can stop listening and get back to your organizing and arranging. he told himself and immediately tuned them out and went back to the box of clothing he had placed on the floor, picked it up, and proceeded into his bedroom.

[stormy]

Destiny made her way up the stairs, consintrating on not holding her breath as she went. It's that bad.. she coached herself as she went. One, two, three, four.. she would count to ten and start back over to give herself something to focus on. The trick seemed to be working. But she still had a whole other flight of stairs to go. Destiny knew time most likely wasn't going as slow as it seemed to be to her, but that didn't make it any easier to put up with how it felt like it was dragging by. Each step seemed to take longer a longer to make. As she made it to the fifth floor she took a second to pause, leaning against the wall to catch her breath as she considered that even without having just fallen on some concrete steps making it up five flights of stairs can wear out any person..
Destiny sighed as she leaned her head back against the wall. She was almost at the apartment so catching her breath out in the hall where she was at least not being watched would be much easier. Destiny turned her head to the left as she continued leaning against the wall. Looking down the hallway she could see what looked like three door ways on each side. She wondered if each was an apartment or if some of the doors were a storage closet assigned to the ajoining apartments. Destiny couldn't be sure from this angle since she couldn't make out all the numbers and letters attached to each door, but she kind of hoped for the later posibillity for two reasons. 1- she didn't really prefer being around too many people so that would mean less apartments that could be ocupied, and 2- it always helped to have a little extra storage space.
One door in the hall was open, and considering she heard Jenni's voice floating from that area she was pretty sure without seeing the number that that was her current destination. "So lets get this part over with." she whispered to herself with a sigh as she pushed herself off the wall and made her way to the open door.

[Serena]

Andrew left his bedroom once more and grabbed the long box that held the pieces of his bedframe and proceeded back into the bedroom where he placed them standing up in the corner. He then went back into the living room and grabbed the box that held his headboard and endboard even though they weren't so much as boards but bars. He then grabbed his queen sized mattress and headed back to his room and placed it standing up againt the wall next to the boxes of the pieces of his bed, and moments later he added the boxspring to it.
Okay, bedroom is done. I'll have to wait to put my clothes up until I get some hangers, and I'll just put my bed together another time. he told himself, not really having a specific date for that since it wasn't like anyone would be seeing the inside of his bedroom.
Andrew headed back into the living room and easily began to move the heavy boxes containing his dinning room table and chairs over to the kitchen area. Once that was done he grabbed the box with his flat screen tv and sat on the couch as he opened the box and searched for the instructions for mounting it on the wall. After he found them he quickly read through them, memorizing them as he went and quickly mounted his tv on the wall between his balcony doors and his bedroom door. He plugged it in and fixed the settings to his liking before settling on a classical music channel to listen to as he worked.
Instructions were eventually read for his dinning room table and chairs and he began to put those together as he made a mental list of things he needed to get.
So I need hangers, towels, everything for my bed, a phone, curtains, a piano. Gotta have a piano to help pass the time. he thought, which reminded him that he needed to go grab his laptop from the trunk of his car. That also reminds me that I need to figure out what to do with my time here. I really don't want to go to school now that I really think about it. I'm just not up to dealing with teenage angst and crushes on me. The high school or college variety. As for working...I could do that, but I really don't see myself at a place with a fixed set of hours everyday. he thought as he considered his options, his eyes roaming his new home as his hands moved to put another chair together.
Andrew noticed how bare his walls were and thought they needed a little color to decorate them and suddenly he had his answer.
That's what I'll do. I'll be an artist...and maybe a writer as well. I can paint landscapes and maybe write a book. That's something I haven't done professionally before. It would also allow me to stay at home and work at my own pace. I've got plenty of inspiration for paintings as well, not so much for the writing but that could change. It might have already changed. he thought as he unwillingly remembered the haunting female voice. It reminded him of The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe.
Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing,
Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before;
But the silence was unbroken, and the darkness gave no token,
And the only word there spoken was the whispered word, `Lenore!'
This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word, `Lenore!'
Merely this and nothing more. he quoted easily using it as a metaphor for his dark mind and replacing the name 'Lenore' for 'Destiny'. He just hoped that he wouldn't be reminded of The Tell-Tale Heart. He could certainly do without being tormented by her beating heart.
Anyway, he thought, trying to get his mind off of beating hearts so he wouldn't have to suddenly go hunting in the current weather. I could start off with poems and short stories and work my way up to some grand idea for a novel. he thought with a nod as he moved on to the last of the four chairs. So I'll add writing and painting materials to my list. he thought as he finished the chair and began to put the table together.
"So lets get this part over with." he suddenly heard the haunting voice as if it was sounding right next to his ear just as he finished with the table.
Andrew froze and his eyes widened slightly as he heard the unmistakable sound of a single set of feet moving in the hallway outside his apartment door. The sound of a heartbeat immediately following and seemed to drown out all the rest in the building with its perfect rhythm.
"I jinxed myself." he whispered to himself as his sensative ears followed the footsteps and heartbeat of the human female called Destiny, owner of the haunting voice and unknowingly tormentor of her vampire neighbor.

This post has been edited by Serena on Feb 24 2012, 03:29 PM

[stormy]

'I've only visited a little, and nothing recently.' Jenni's voice was floating to her ears as Destiny made her way down the hall. 'Too bad, we might have met sooner .' she could hear the smile in his voice, and pictured the blush that could slightly redden her friend's cheeks. 'Should we check on your friend ?' his voice continued, the smile tone shifting to a slight concern. 'Only if you want to annoy her . Jenni answered with a small laugh. Destiny smiled, Her friend was right. "Oh... Well.. There isn't much up here. You guys need help carrying some stuff up ?' Josh continued. 'Well. It's raining . So we'll probably just wait till tomorrow .'
Destiny tried focusing on the voices, or counting the steps she took as she made her way down the hall. Jenni had grabbed her bag and Destiny couldn't wait to get to the bottle of Advil inside. She was sure after a couple of those and maybe some rest she'd be feeling a whole lot looser.
The building sure seems quite .. she thought to herself, noting that that in itself was a definite good thing, if it lasts.. She didn't prefer noisy neighbors.
As she reached the door, Destiny heard someone else approaching it also. 'There you are .' Josh greeted her at the doorway with a smile as Destiny made her way inside. Jenni was sitting on a slightly used brown and green couch with a wooden accents along the front arm rests, the feet, the base, and the top back portion. She assumed it was her grandmother's and hoped it didn't have the odd smell Jenni had mentioned of moth balls..
"Mmm, hmm .." Destiny answered as she gave them both a half smile.
Destiny chose to sit in the chair to the right of the couch that was a slightly different shade of solid brown from the couch. They were clearly not a matching set, but looked fine together none the less. Destiny preferred the soft, faux suede material of the chair over the regular upholstery of the couch, and a big plus was the fact that no one would sit beside her. Destiny glanced Josh's way who was now rocking back and forth between his heels to his toes as he seemed to be considering if he should take a seat on the couch.
So Jenni figures you'll wait till tomorrow to bring the rest of your things up .. the words were not presented as a question, but the tone was there, not that Destiny knew why it would matter. There are some people out there who actually like to help others on occasion Des. Hidden agendas not always required.. a reassuring voice whispered through her mind. "That would probably be best. Like she said, it's raining. I wouldn't be much help right now, and definitely don't want to sit around while she does it all and possibly catches a cold, and later we'd rather be sleeping. So yeah. Tomorrow sounds about right." Destiny replied as she slowly sat back against the chair. 'I don't mind to help .' Josh volunteered. Jenni smiled a little smile before she realized it and whipped the grin away. Destiny looked from Jenni to Josh.. She could tell Jenni was interested in getting to know him. Maybe because she thought he was cute or date worthy, or maybe just cause they were new and could use a friend or two familiar with the area. But Destiny would rather everyone not have to get acquainted on a wet night carrying things up and down the stairs while she sat on her backside, which she knew wouldn't last long. She'd never just sit around and let everyone else do all the work.
"I tell you what." both Josh and Jenni were watching her now. "If you really want to help, We might could use the extra hands tomorrow.. Rain or shine that stuff will need to come in. But for tonight, it should be fine." Destiny was glad to see Jenni liked her answer as she snuggled into the couch with a smile. 'How about a movie instead. It's no big screen but grandma's tv and dvd player should be working.' Jenni suggested as she pointed across the room. "Depends on what your grandmother's taste in movies are .." Destiny answered with a playfully worried note. Jenni got that look of understanding and tilted her head as she looked around, getting up to find the movie stash and see what their options were. 'I have some movies you might like.' Josh offered with a smile. 'Yeah, might be a good idea.' Jenni answered before Destiny could respond as she held up an old version of True Grit. 'She has original versions, but I'm not finding anything new like the remakes..' Jenni had a slightly worried tone to her voice as she was scanning through titles. "I like some of the old versions." Des teased with a small laugh. She knew Jenni didn't much prefer older movies like Breakfast at Tiffany's or anything like that. But that was her loss. Jenni cut her eyes at her. Or could she be more disliking the titles cause she wanted to run off and see what Josh had? A person's movie collection could tell you a thing or two about them. Plus she'd get to see his apartment. Destiny wasn't sure if running off alone was a good thing, but Jenni was a big girl and would do what she wanted if she saw nothing wrong with it. "Well, hurry back. " Destiny said with a sigh. Jenni smiled, threw her a wink and headed out the door to be followed by Josh. We'll be right back . Josh said with a smile as he threw her a wink as well.

[Serena]

"Don't listen Andrew! Don't listen!" he told himself frantically as he looked around for something to distract him. He saw that he still needed to put a few things together for his living room so he decided to get right on that.
He put his kitchen table in place and placed the chairs around it before moving over to the brown box that contained the pieces of his coffee table. He ripped the box open easily, ignoring all the tape, and began putting it together without even looking at the instructions as he was so intent on trying to ignore the haunting voice he could easily tell was now having a conversation with the other girl that was with her and the man that he heard offering help earlier. Still, he was beginning to realize that there was no ignoring her heartbeat and he wondered what he was going to do about that. Perhaps he needed to get away from it for a while, and hope that he couldn't hear it when he got back...or at least that it wouldn't single itself out to him again.
Andrew placed his coffee table in place in front of his couch and looked around once again. He still had his bookshelves to put together and the little end tables for his couch, but he was considering waiting until he got back to finish that. Especially since he wanted to make it to the stores before they closed for the day, he needed to account for the time that the storm would take up.
Alright Andrew. Go to the store and get your shopping done, that way you won't have to worry about it tomorrow and it will get you away from the haunting voice and heartbeat. he told himself as he turned his TV and lights off, and grabbed his keys off the kitchen counter before heading out the door and into the hallway.
"Well, hurry back." Andrew heard the haunting voice say just as he was closing his door, and he looked up to see a young girl come walking out of the doorway across the hall from his followed by a guy who looked to be around the same age as the girl.
The guy was tall with blond hair and blue eyes, he had an average athletic build with some muscle. It was clear that if he got into a one on one fight he could win....considering he wasn't fighting a vampire. The girl was shorter then the guy, with a petite figure with brown slightly wavy hair that fell pass her shoulders. She wore glasses over her brown eyes but they didn't hide her kind face, and she looked like she would be a fun interesting person. He wondered if the one with the haunting voice...Destiny...had a kind face, and then mentally scowled at himself. He didn't need to be wondering what her face looked like!
His inspection of the male and female was only a few seconds, a mere glance to them, but he saw every detail. He had no major opinions on them other then that he hoped they were quiet neighbors and weren't the type to throw parties. He also had an outrageous hope that the guy stayed away from the one whose voice was haunting him. It was outrageous because he had no reason to hope for such a thing. He didn't know her and he wasn't sure he wanted to know her after her voice and heartbeat had decided to torment him. Not to mention he still hadn't seen her yet, which was probably a good thing since he was still weary about how seeing her would effect him.
Besides, it looks like she just moved in with that girl I just saw, and I'll probably see her soon enough since she's going to be living right across the hall from me. he thought as he made his way as quickly as humanly possible down the stairs until he reached the exit to the parking lot.
Andrew walked out into the pelting rain and headed for his car ready to start his evening of heading from store to store. Once inside his car he started the engine and ran his fingers through his nearly soaked hair as he let out a sigh.
Hangers, towels, everything for my bed, a phone, curtains, a piano, radio, clock, dvd player, writing and painting materials, and anything else I can think of. he thought, going through his mental shopping list, as he put on his seatbelt and began to head for Bed, Bath & Beyond. He was sure he would be able to get most of his list at that place.

[stormy]

Destiny didn't know if she should laugh or scowl at his wink. Upon first meeting people she tended to try keeping a distance until she could form an opinion and get an idea of their personality. It made it easier in times like now to tell if he was trying to flirt, or was just being himself.
Destiny shrugged as the two stepped out the door. I guess it doesn't matter either way at the moment. she considered as she began to glance around the room. Destiny paused in her surveillance as she heard Jenni give a small gasp followed by Josh's voice reaching her. 'Whoa.. I.. He must be new..' Josh's voice had a slightly uncomfortable and confused note as it reached her ears. 'What's up?' Destiny asked. Jenni poked her head in the door, 'I think it was the guy we saw earlier..' Jenni's voice was almost at a whisper as he note of surprise reached Destiny. 'You think ?' Destiny asked, tilting her head slightly in a questioning manor as Josh followed Jenni back into the room. Well.. Yeah.. Jenni said, a little unsure at the moment. 'You've seen him before ?' Josh questioned. 'I've not seen him before..' he added as he glanced back to the door as though the person would materialize there. 'Well, He kind of ran up the stairs ahead of us earlier when we arrived.. He was there and gone in almost a flash.. Like just now..' Jenni explained. 'Maybe you are just tired from the long drive.' Destiny offered to her. 'I'll bet if you weren't so tired it wouldn't seem like he's avoiding you'
Jenni cut her eyes and stuck her tongue out at Destiny and her playful comment. At times you would think they were still in elementary school, but they enjoyed that together they could just be themselves. 'Well either he's new, or looking the place over for a friend, cause these apartments are the only two on this floor and have been empty a while.' Josh pointed out. 'Only two? But there were like six doors in the hall?' Destiny questioned. 'Yeah, an apartment on each side of the hall, a storage closest on each side for the maintenance man, and one next to each apartment for the tenants.. Mr. Mobly always complains that his storage room has to be on the top floor so he tries to use what's in them as little as possible.' Josh explained. 'Oh..' Destiny and Jenni both replied. 'So he might be our neighbor?.. Our only neighbor??' Jenni pointed out. 'Maybe,' Josh replied, clearly unsure how to react to Jenni's dreamy voice as she considered the possibility. 'So how bout that movie ?' Josh offered in an attempt to change the subject and get things going again.
Destiny saw Jenni look her way and gave her a shrug. She didn't really care either way. 'Ok.' Jenni said with a smile as she turned back to the door. 'Be back.' she offered again with a smile over her shoulder as they headed out the door.
Destiny stretched and gave a yawn as she held back a wince from her stretching. Advil she reminded herself as she looked for and spotted her bag on an in table by the door. Destiny made her way to the bag and then into an average to small sized kitchen to get a glass of water. 'Well, I've definitely seen smaller, and who can argue with a furnished apartment that's actually looking to be livable on our income?..' Destiny mumbled to herself as she ran water from the faucet into a glass. 'or lack there of..' her thoughts pointed out regarding the income status as she drank down the pill.
After sitting the glass on the counter Destiny pulled off her thin coat and set it aside as she made her way back to the chair. Sinking in she closed her eyes and leaned her head back thinking over the recent drive.
'Oh we love movies . Jenni's voice and laugh followed by a closing door woke Destiny up. She hadn't realized she was even falling asleep, but apparently she had passed right out. 'Don't we Des?' Jenni asked with a smile. 'Hmm?..' Destiny rubbed her eyes as she tried sitting up right. 'Love movies.. she answered with a 'duh aren't you listening' note. 'Yeah.' Destiny replied with a small laugh and a smile. 'Just a little.' Destiny added with a wink making Jenni laugh at her. 'Well great. Maybe we can watch more sometime.' josh offered with his own smile. Jenni smiled his way before looking back to Destiny. 'So that's why you weren't hunting us down after a little bit? You fell asleep??' Jenni asked with a teasing laugh. 'Hmm?.. How long were you gone??' Destiny asked as she rubbed her eyes slightly, already noticing that the Advil and maybe even her nap was helping with her pain and stiffness. Jenni glanced towards Josh, 'mm .. Two hours?' she answered with a tone of question his way. Josh shrugged as he made his way to the DVD player. 'Two hours ??' Destiny repeated. She cleared her throat and restraightened herself. 'What did you do, watch the movie first?' she asked, only half joking. 'Just got caught up talking.. Lost track of the time.' Jenni replied as Josh put a disk in the player, turned the TV on, and then made his way to sit on the floor in front of the couch. Destiny looked from Josh, who was watching the previews lighting the screen, to Jenni who was now settling into one of the corners of the couch.
In a motion of habit, Destiny felt her pockets, when no cell phone was recovered she felt the cushion of the chair she was sitting in. With no cell phone still, she got up, making her way to her bag near the door, glad for a distraction before she said something that might be taken wrong regarding their disappearance. 'Do you need something?' she heard Josh ask. Glancing his way, Destiny saw he was in the motion to get up and help if she gave him the word to do so. 'No. Just looking for my cell.' she answered as she continued her hunt. But as she search through her bag, she realized still no phone. Destiny's head fell back as she groaned internally, She hadn't called home like she said she would.. 'I'll be right back.' she sighed as she stood to walk out the door. She knew that if not where she'd already looked her cell phone would be in the car between the two front seats from when she was talking to her mother earlier. 'What's wrong?' Jenni asked. 'You didn't see my cell earlier did you?' Destiny asked with slight hope. 'Noooo.. Jenni answered with a shake of her head as she drew out the answer with a questioning tone. 'Not since the car.' she added, slight recognition dawning she saw the defeated look on Destiny's face. 'Yeah.. I'll be right back..' she sighed once more. 'I can get it if you tell me where to look.' Josh offered.
Destiny looked his way, 'No thanks. I need to make a call anyways, so y'all just get the movie started and I'll be back .' she answered looking from Josh to Jenni before she opened the door and stepped into the hall.

This post has been edited by stormy on Jun 16 2012, 11:51 PM

[Serena]

It took Andrew a while to get through the slow traffic due to the storm but he managed to finally make it there without a scratch, which is more then he could say for some people since he had passed up two accidents.
After parking he jogged to the main entrance, grabbed a cart, and began to roam Bed, Bath, & Beyond looking for colors that would go with what he already had in his new apartment.
As Andrew walked around the bath section he felt a little ridiculous pushing around a cart, but he told himself that he was suppose to be blending into humanity not standing out. It's bad enough I stand out among my kind, no need to do so with the humans.  At least no more then usual. he thought as he finally found the towels.
He grabbed two gray, black, white, sky blue, and navy blue towels of all sizes, bath rugs of the same colors, and a black hamper.  He then strolled to the bed section and began to fill the cart with packs of sheets, blankets, comforters, and pillows.
Should I get dishes for my little kitchen? he wondered as he found the section with curtains.  He definitely didn't want to wait on those with what he knew about San Francisco weather.  It would just be my luck for it to be sunny and blue skies tomorrow. he thought as he grabbed two sets of thick dark curtains that he knew would block out the sun.
I'll just see if there's room in my cart by the time I've gotten everything else. he decided as he stumbled onto an electronic section much to his surprise.  It's not like I'll need them tomorrow, and plus I could just buy what's in my cart and then come back in here and get them. he assured himself as he grabbed a clock for his bedroom and living room, and a cordless telephone.
Andrew roamed the store for a few more minutes, trying to ignore the few females who seemed to be following him, and finally found the closet hangers.  He wasn't exactly happy with the selection.  He certainly didn't need some fifty dollar set of hangers as if he was living in a mansion.  So he decided to just get them at the Container store along with whatever else caught his eye.  The only problem he saw with that was finding parking.
Finally the dishes came into view and he began to look for what would go with his little kitchen. I don't need many.  It's not like I'll have many humans over to eat. he thought and then grimaced as that reminded him that he might have to actually buy food.  Not until I actually need to. he thought firmly as he grabbed a simple set of solid white everyday plates, bowls, and tea cups.  He then found some plastic blue cups and grabbed a few of those and then made his way to the silverware or flatware as he saw it was labeled.  There were so many that he wasn't sure which one to pick at first, but then decided on a simple set that looked okay to his eyes.  Not like I'll ever be using them. he thought as he began to make his way to a checkout line.
Once he had paid for all his stuff and had it bagged and placed in his cart Andrew quickly made his way to his car.  He unlocked his trunk and began to neatly pack everything in so that he had room for what he needed to buy next.  After that was taken care of he stowed the cart away in one of those slots for carts and hurried back to his car and began his trip to Best Buy.
The trip was surprisingly short but he saw that there were a lot of cars in the parking lot, but luckily for him there was an Office Max across the street so he could get his art supplies.  After parking he once again jogged through the rain and entered the brightly lit store.  He grabbed a blue cart and quickly made his way to the radio section where he grabbed a CD, am/fm radio then over to the DVD section where he grabbed one that matched the color of his tv.
After checking out he stored those items in his trunk and then made his way over to Office Max where he once again grabbed a cart and began to grabbed what he needed.  Colored pencils, crayola markers, paint brushes, regular pencils, erasers, pencil sharpener, construction paper, sketch pad, different color pens, and notebooks all made their way into his cart.  They didn't have the kind of paint he wanted so he would have to go to an art store another day and get what he needed.
Okay, one last stop and then home it is. he thought as he paid for his materials.  He quickly made his way back to his car, not wanting his paper to get wet.  He tossed the bags onto the passenger seat and began to head for the nearest freeway entrance.  It took him nearly thirty minutes, through the storm traffic, to make his way to Serramonte shopping center out in Daly City.  He had only been there once since he didn't like the crowds since he drew too much attention, but he remembered seeing a music store that carried pianos.  So he quickly made his way to the store and sighed as the noise disappeared once the door closed behind him.  He browsed around but didn't see what he wanted, so he looked through a selection they had available for order and put in his order, giving his name and address.
With that done he thanked the man for his help and headed home.
Traffic seemed to be lighter heading back into the city so he got home fairly quickly, especially with his speed driving.  He was happy that his parking spot was still there and quickly pulled in so he could begin bringing in his things.
Andrew pulled his key from the ignition, grabbed his bags of art supplies and opened the door.  The rain seemed to have lightened a bit so he wouldn't have to worry too much about his paper.  He closed the door, locked it, and opened up his trunk.  He grabbed a bag of towels and his laptop, closed the trunk and headed inside.
Once inside he ran a hand through his wet hair to get it out of his eyes, and immediately began to try and tune out all the noise, conversations, and heartbeats assaulting his ears.  Unfortunately for him there seemed to be one heartbeat that refused to be ignored.
I've been standing here how many seconds and her heartbeat is already trying to drive me to distraction. he thought wearily as he began to make his way up the first flight of stairs.  Well I won't let it!  I'm going to have to learn to live with it since its owner lives right across the hall from me. Still, as long as I avoid the owner of the heartbeat and haunting voice then I should be okay.  There's still the chance of pulling off the mysterious creepy recluse artist who wears dark clothing persona. he thought with a mental smile.
However, his internal contentment faded away as he realized that the heartbeat was getting closer to him, and that's when he realized he had been tuning out the sound of footsteps.
"Uh oh..." he whispered as he realized he was about to see the one person in the building he had been hoping to avoid.