The Stare
Linda could feel it.
An cold icy stare!
Like eyes were peering down on her.
She looked around in the dim light to see where it was coming from, but saw nothing. As Linda then went back to her reading, the feeling was gone as fast as it had come. This gave Linda a sense of relief.
The book she was reading surely wasn't helping. But Linda loved these kinds of books, Anne Rice, was the famous writer about Vampires. Her books seemed to pull you in, as if you were one of the characters. It was so exciting to read what was going to happen next. Linda couldn't help but turn each page, diving into the book more and more. Reading was a nightly ritual for Linda.
Just then she heard a noise, that made her jump.
“Oh s**t, what was that?” Linda said nervously.
Looking around she saw nothing. Then said while shaking her head, “ It must be my imagination!” Linda glanced at the clock, and saw it was 10:00 pm. so she decided it was time she got to bed.
During the night she had strange nightmares. All night she was tossing and turning, like she was fighting off someone. When it was finally morning,Linda did not want to get up. But it was another work day, so she dragged her tired body out of bed. Then walked into the bathroom, and turned the water on in the shower.
After climbing into the shower she let the water fall over her. It was so refreshing feeling the hot water stream over her naked body. While shampooing her hair......... she felt it again!
That icy cold stare! There was that feeling again!
She felt shivers go up her spine, Linda looked around the bathroom; again there was nothing.
So she finished showering, grabbed a towel, and wrapped it around her body. Then stepped out of the shower, and went to dry off.
As Linda stood in front of the mirror, she began combing out her hair. Then went to put her make-up on. While she was putting the face cream on, she noticed a red mark on her neck. She couldn't figure out how it got there, but grabbed the concealer and applied some to the spot. Then finished applying the rest of her make-up, and went to get dressed. After eating some breakfast, Linda left for work..
The rest of the morning seemed to go fine for Linda. But her mind wasn't occupied with work, but the date she was going to have with George. It had been some time since she had been on one, so she was nervous and excited. Linda liked George, he was a nice guy, and had a great sense of humor.
Just then George walked by her desk, and said, “ Hi Linda, ready for tonight?”
Linda looked up and smiled, and said, “Yeah!”
George blushed, and said, “ See you later, Linda.”
Linda began humming as George walked away. Then went back to her filing with a big smile on her face. The rest of the day seemed to fly by for Linda, she was just to happy. Nothing could spoil the way she was feeling, it was like she was on cloud nine.
On her way home, she stopped by a floral shop. Treating herself to a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Linda loved flowers, but had no place to plant any where she lived. This was her small indulgence, each payday she would buy a large bouquet for herself.
As Linda arrived home, she put the flowers in a vase, and set them on the table. She smiled, and thought how beautiful they were. Then went to get a glass, and the cold water out of the refrigerator. Linda took the glass, and walked into the living room. She opened the French doors, and walked out on the balcony. As she looked out over the railing, she thought to herself, “ this is why I moved here, the view is absolutely gorgeous!
There was a birds-eye view of the park from her balcony. She had walked through it during the day, but was warned to stay out at night. They even had signs posted at the entrance, saying “ Park closed at 9:00 pm.” That never bothered her, because she was curled up on the couch reading at that time. Time passed as Linda watched people walking around in the park, and the ducks floating in the pond. It was so serene, and gave Linda a sense of calmness. She loved living in this apartment too.
Just then she felt it again............. that icy cold stare!
Linda turned around quickly to where she felt it was coming from, still she saw nothing. She shook her head, and thought “ how weird!” She wasn't sure what was going on, or why. She would worry about that later, and decided to go get ready for her date. “ Her date,”she thought to herself. She wanted this relationship to work out. Her track record hadn't been to great lately. Her last one was wrong on all accounts, but Linda didn't care that he was a married man. She liked Andrew, and he made her feel real good. And he seemed to really care for her too.
But George was single, that was something she made sure of. She would rather stay single, than break up another family. It wasn't something Linda wanted to get in the habit of doing. She wanted a nice guy, and get to know him as time went by.
Linda walked back in the apartment, and into the kitchen to put the glass in the sink. Again her thoughts went back in time- she wondered how Andrew was doing. He ended up with nothing, his wife left him and Linda broke it off. Being with him was just to toxic, nothing went right. It seemed her life was going down hill after she finally gave into her feelings for him.
She shook her head, and said, “ I have got to stop thinking about him, nothing ever goes right.”
Then Linda began smiling as she thought about George. He was always trying to make her laugh with his jokes. This time she didn't want to move to fast, first she wanted to get to know him better. Then if things worked out she would get serious.
Part two- The Date
She was going to wear a simple white cotton dress, nothing to flashy for her first date. Just as she finished dressing, she heard a knock on the door. Her heart leaped, and she knew it was George, sweet George. She walked into the living room and opened the door, there he was.
Linda smiled, and said, “ Hi George.”
George said “ Hi Linda,” then he gave her a sweet kiss on the cheek.
He was a perfect gentleman around her, which impressed her. He planned on taking her to dinner at the new Italian restaurant- “Bello Giordino!” Then take in a movie or go see a play. George was out to please Linda in any way he could. He liked Linda, and he felt she was the one. He too hoped things would work out between them.
They entered the restaurant, and were immediately seated in a cozy nook. The place was dimly lit, giving it a romantic feel. George had pre-ordered their meals to save time. He hoped she wouldn't mind that he did that either. They sat down, and George looked at her like he wanted to say something.
She smiled, and to break the ice, then said ,“ This is a nice place, George.”
He grinned back at her, then said, “ Yes it is, Linda.”
There was that awkward silence again.
As George cleared his throat, and said “Um, Linda.”
She looked at him, and said, “Yes.”
“Um..... Linda, do you want some wine with dinner?” George asked shyly.
Linda smiled sweetly, and replied, “ No thank you, George, just some ice tea will do.”
George nervously squeaked out, “ Okay, Linda!”
George was always nervous around girls. Seeing Linda next to him was no exception. And when she smiled, it just made his body feel like it was melting. To him she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen, and he was with her tonight! He did not want to mess things up. Most of the times his fumbling scared women off.
Thankfully dinner went on without a hitch. They both had a good time, and decided to forget going to the movies. Linda invited him back to her place instead. She thought they could sit on her balcony, take in the view and just talk.
Upon arriving at her place, George politely took the keys from Linda. After asking which key it was, he unlocked the door and opened it. He handed her the keys back and let his hand linger on hers. He looked at her and smiled nervously. Linda just smiled back, and George began to melt again.
“Go in, George, “ Linda said.
He hesitated, then heard her say, “It's alright, come on in George!”
He walked in and bumped his foot on a table, just before Linda turned on a light. Linda giggled, and she saw George's cheeks were red from embarrassment.
Linda walked over to him, and said “ I'm sorry, George,” as she looked into his eyes. She grabbed his hand leading him toward the balcony, saying “ Come!”
He stood watching her unlatch the French doors, then open them. Linda motioned for George to go through, and onto the balcony.
As he stepped out, he exclaimed, “ Wow, what a view!”
Linda smiled, and replied happily, “ Yes George, this is why I moved here!
George stood looking out, the view was spectacular. He couldn't believe how beautiful the city looked from here. Everything sparkled as the lights shone all over the city.
As he was looking out Linda moved in closer to George, making him jump slightly. She shot her sparkling smile at him, and he began to be at ease. He moved in closer to Linda, while looking at her.
Just then -Linda felt it again........... that icy cold stare!
She shivered, and George looked at her, then asked “ You alright Linda?”
She replied “ I'm fine, it's nothing.”
He took off his jacket and put it around Linda's shoulders. He thought her shivering was from getting cold. She began feeling a little better, and they started talking.
“I still can't believe the view you get from here Linda, it's amazing,” George exclaimed.
“ Well, it took me awhile to find some place where it had not just a good view, but where I could feel safe,” Linda said quietly.
“It seems like the perfect place, too,” George said, as he looked around.
As he said that Linda stared out at the moon, she began wondering just how safe things were. Especially since she had strange things happening lately. Would she be safe here, even though she was on the second floor?
George leaned toward Linda, and said “ You sure something isn't wrong- do you want me to go?”
“ Oh sorry, George I have a problem with letting my mind wander, it has nothing to do with you,” Linda said apologetically.
“ Ha ha, oh yeah I do that sometimes, its ok, Linda,” George said laughingly.
“ So you do that too, I thought I was the only one that did it,” Linda said relieved.
“ Oh I remember this one time in a business meeting I did that. My boss kept asking me something, and my mind was off on other things!”
Linda's eyes got big, and she gasped. Then asked “You didn't lose your job over that, did you ?”
George laughed, saying “ Nah, I just told him that I have problems concentrating. So he told me, he does that sometimes, too. I was relieved when he told me that.”
“Wow, so we aren't alone,” Linda laughed.
George then looked at his watch, and said, “ Well, I think it's time I head home, I got an early day tomorrow.” George and Linda headed into her apartment then toward the front door. As they got there she removed his coat, and handed it back to him.
She looked at him, and said sweetly, “ Thank you George, I had a lovely time tonight.”
George blushed, and said ,“ I had a good time too, maybe we could have lunch tomorrow? Thats if you would like to Linda?”
Linda smiled, and said, “ I would like that George, maybe we could eat in the park?”
George shyly leaned forward, and kissed Linda. He hoped she wouldn't mind him doing that so soon. After he pulled away she smiled, letting him know she liked the kiss. They said goodnight, and Linda shut the door and locked the deadbolts.
As Linda turned to go shut the French doors, just then she saw a flash or a dark shadow off the balcony. At first, it spooked her, but then she thought it was her imagination running away with her again. She hurriedly walked to shut and lock the French doors.
Lately she felt as if someone was watching her. Linda wondered if she should say anything to George? She started yawning, and decided to just go to bed. Tonight she would forgo her ritual of reading before going to sleep. She also decided to leave the bathroom light on, making her feel somewhat safer. Hoping to get a good night's sleep. No tossing and turning, or the feeling like she was fighting off someone during the night.
Chapter 2
The Lunch Date
Linda felt good waking up, after the alarm beeped. She smiled as she thought about George, and the kiss! It wasn't too much, just a very sweet delicate one. As Linda stared at the ceiling, she took her fingers and ran them over her lips. Remembering how his lips felt against hers. It was something she missed feeling, the touch of a man's lips! And to have George give her a sweet kiss was just enough to fuel her emotions. She longed to see him again.
Glancing over at the clock, she moaned. It was time to get up so she threw the covers back. She wanted to lay there all morning dreaming about George, but couldn't. Today was laundry day, and she needed to call her mother. But then she smiled and happily said, “Lunch with George, I can't wait!” Even though the other things needed to be done, she dreaded having to do them.
Linda finally got up and went to the bathroom to wash her face. She noticed the mark on her neck was still there. So she retrieved some medicine and dabbed some on, still wondering how she got it? She brushed her hair into a ponytail, then left the bathroom to get dressed. As she was getting her laundry together, she debated on when to call her mom. Just as she decided to get her laundry started, she heard her stomach growling, so Linda decided to eat first.
She walked into the kitchen to eat a quick bowl of cereal. When she was done Linda grabbed her laundry and soap, and headed for the laundry room. Linda figured if she got it done fast, she could spend more time getting ready for her lunch date. Just then she remembered the call to check on her mom. She wasn't going to mention anything about George. It was to soon, and she wanted to make sure it was going to work first. After getting back to her apartment, she phoned her mom. Gladys had been busy planting a new garden. Linda promised to come by in a few days to help. Today was her laundry day, and she had shopping to do later.
Linda's mom, Gladys had a way of dragging the conversations out. Mainly to find out what man if any, Linda had in her life now. As she talked, she replied,
“ No mom, I don't need anything.”
Gladys then asked, “How do you like your new place?
Linda continued, “ Oh mom, this place really nice, and no I don't have anyone living with me. My neighbors are all nice, and yes there are guys around here.”
Gladys always took the conversations onto personal stuff, whether Linda wanted it to or not. So to get all the pertinent items of conversations out of the way, she told her all the stuff she needed to hear. But Linda was having a hard time keeping her excitement about George a secret.
Gladys asked, “why do you seem to be so happy Linda? Are you seeing someone new?”
Linda replied, “ oh mom, a man....... no mom. I'm just happy, can't a person be happy. I mean I'm healthy, I have a great place to live, and a gorgeous view to look at every morning!”
Her mom said, ' You sure, Linda. I'm glad your happy, but don't you want a man in your life again? '
Linda sighed, “ Oh mom, don't start that again. Besides........ oh never mind, I got to go check my laundry. I'll come by next week to see your garden and help out if I can. Bye mom.”
Gladys started to say more, but was cut off as she heard the phone being hung up. Her mom said bye as she set the receiver down.
Linda didn't want to think about the past. She was moving forward with her life, hoping that this relationship would work out with George. He was a nice guy, and different from the others she was attracted to. Even though most people considered his type geeky- looking, she liked him. He was just under 6', had brown hair and brown eyes. Linda thought he looked really intelligent with his glasses too. He was sort of on the chubby side, but not to bad. And he had a great personality, which is what she was attracted to- not his looks.
Linda was going to for a guy with a good intellect than just looks. She wanted to have someone with a good heart and mind. Linda was a striking redhead, making her green eyes stand out. She was only 5'4”, so she felt like a shrimp next to everyone she met, including George. But he liked her, and told her she was the prettiest woman he'd ever met. That made her very happy, and like him even more.
It was nearing 10:00 o'clock, so she went to check on her laundry. On walking out she saw her neighbor, Randolf duck into his apartment. He was such a squirrelly looking dude, and always seemed to be sneaking about the apartment complex. One time she caught him lurking near the mailbox area. No one liked him, but she still hadn't made up her mind on whether she liked or disliked him.
' I'm going to find out what he is up to.' she thought, then turned toward the laundry room. She gathered her clothes, and took them back to her apartment. Randolf wasn't around, so Linda felt relieved.
While in her bedroom she began sorting through her clothes, putting her underwear into a pile, then hanging up her tops and pants. As she gathered her panties up, she noticed her favorite red pair were missing. Quickly she grabbed her keys, and ran down to the laundry room. She looked in the washer she used- nothing, then went to the dryer. There they were stuck to the top of the dryer, Linda was so relieved. She scrunched them into her hand, and headed back to her place.
She was ready to accuse Randolf of taking them, if she hadn't found them. He seemed to be the sort to get into a person's laundry and steal something. But her favorite pair were safe and sound. Linda planned on wearing them on her date with George! Not that she expected anything would happen, but maybe they would be a good luck charm.
By the time Linda was done putting away her clothes, it was time to get ready for her date. So she showered, quickly dried off and put on a sundress.
While fixing her hair, there it was again.....
that icy cold stare!
Linda shuddered, and looked around- but there was nothing.
She hurriedly finished getting ready, grabbed her purse and left. Linda needed to get out of her apartment. On walking out, there he was- creepy Randolf. She locked her door, then walked by him.
He grinned as she walked by and said, “ Hi, Miss Turner.”
Linda replied, “ Randolf.”
She had insisted he call her by her last name, and to keep his distance or else. She didn't trust him, and the other women in the complex warned her that he was weird. Linda was beginning to see what they meant too.
As Linda began walking toward the park, she saw George. He didn't notice her coming, but she began to smile as soon as she saw him. It wasn't until she was almost to him, that he saw her. To George, she was a vision of loveliness, he started to smile when he saw her. George saw this perfect beauty walking towards him with a lavender sundress on. As she walked closer he smiled real big, and said '” Wow, Linda you look lovely!”
Linda's cheeks turned red, as she said “ Thank you George!” Her cheeks kept turning different shades of red as he kept staring at her. Linda looked down slightly, like she was embarrassed at what he was doing. Then he asked, “ Well Linda what are you in the mood to eat today?” George acted like this wasn't the first time they had been together. Linda looked around at the different restaurants, trying to decide what sounded good. She said “hmmmm” as she saw the fish and chips place, a hotdog stand, and several gourmet establishments.
George patiently waited for Linda to make up her mind. He liked looking at her, she was so beautiful. When she realized he was looking at her, she smiled. Then said, “ Let's go for some fish and chips- we can pretend we are in London eating our lunch. Have you ever been to London, George?”
George replied using an English accent, “ No I dare say that I have, but jolly good show Linda. My tummy is in the mood for some good fish and chips.” He turned toward the Fish Shack, and said “ Shall we saunter off?”
Linda laughed, and smiled at how George seemed so at ease with her, and how he used a funny accent. As they headed for the fish and chips place she wanted to put her arm around his, but was afraid to. When they got to the counter, they ordered 2 fish and chip meals, with raspberry ice tea's. Then went to sit down and eat their lunch. After awhile Linda began to seem jumpy, so George leaned forward and asked , “ Are you alright, Linda?”
Linda replied, “ Oh yeah, it's nothing George really. Don't worry about it.”
George leaned back, and said, “Okay, Linda if you're sure.”
Then went back to eating his meal. Linda smiled to reassure him nothing was wrong, and it made him smile back. He then asked, “ So how long have you been living in that place?'
She wiped her hands and mouth, then replied, “Oh, only a few weeks.”
“Like I told you last night, it's a really nice place Linda,” George said happily.
“ Yeah, it's great- almost perfect,” Linda sighed.
“ Looks good to me, why do you say almost perfect?” George asked her.
“ Well, I hate to drag you into my problems George, but I have this neighbor that's weird. He creeps he out sometimes,” Linda began explaining.
George reached over grabbed her hand, saying, “He hasn't touched you any, has he?” He seemed to be genuinely worried about her safety.
Linda was pleasantly surprised by his gallantry. She quickly answered, “ewwww no not yet!”
“ Oh that's good,” George said with relief.
Linda looked at him and smiled brightly.
George smiled back and said, “ Let me know if he tries anything. I will have a word with him, Linda.”
She said happily, “ Oh thank you George, I surely will. Let's just finish eating our lunch.”
When they were almost done, George looked up at Linda for a moment. She could feel him doing that, but it wasn't the eerie kind of look she had been feeling. She glanced up from her drink and smiled at George.
George wanted to kiss her so badly right then. Just reach over the table to touch her sweet lips with his, he felt that would make his day! He smiled back, then asked, “ Do you have some place to be after lunch Linda?”
She answered, “No why, George. What did you have in mind?”
“Oh..... I thought we could take a leisurely stroll around the park. That's if you would like to, Linda,” George replied shyly.
Linda looked towards the park and said, “ Sounds lovely, it is a beautiful day too!”
So they got up and walked out, heading for the park. For awhile they stayed silent, just enjoying the scenery. Watching other people doing the same thing as them. Just then George mustered up the courage to take her hand, and as he did that she felt it again..............
there it was.....
... that icy cold stare!
Linda's body shivered when she felt it. George leaned over, and asked “ Are you cold, Linda?”
No, it's nothing don't worry George, really I'm fine.”
George replied, “okay if you're sure.”
Linda was trying her best to hide her awful fear of someone or something watching her. She grasped George's hand tighter trying to relieve his worry. But in the back of her mind, it was there- the dark hidden dread she kept feeling over and over.
They finished walking around the park, then headed back to her place. He wanted to make sure she got into her apartment safely. And that creepy Randolf wasn't lurking about the place.
Linda replied, “ Good Randolf isn't lurking about!”
Still Linda shivered when she thought of creepy Randolf. George looked down at Linda and said, “ It's alright, I wont let anyone hurt you!” while putting his arm around her. That made her feel good and she leaned into George, saying “ Oh Thank you George!”
Linda took her keys out, and looked at George. He looked at her and smiled, then said “ Here let me open your door for you, Linda.” She held her hand out so he could take the keys. He put his hand slowly on top of hers to take them, but let his hand linger. As his hand touched hers, she sighed. They could feel the energy surge between them, she wanted to be in George's arms. But just as he was about to hug her she caught a glimpse of a shadowy figure watching them. Once again she felt it.......
..... that icy cold stare!
Quickly she turned to George and asked, “ Did you see that..... him... or whatever it was?
George looked around and said “ No..... why, what did you see?”
Linda shook her head, while saying “ I don't know.... oh maybe it's just my imagination. Seems every time I see that creepy Randolf something strange happens.”
George excitedly said, “ I'll go have a word with him if you'd like. It's no problem to make sure the girl I like is safe!”
When George said that Linda's eyes sparkled, and she said “ Oh George thank you, you're so sweet. I'm sure it's nothing..... I get spooked real easy. Would you like to come in for a cold drink?”
George beamed, and said “ I sure do!”
He unlocked the door and let Linda go in, and he followed. After shutting the door he wrapped his arms around Linda, and said “Linda don't be afraid, I'm here for you. And if anyone or anything tries to get you let me know!”
She sighed as George held her. Linda felt so at ease, like they had known each other for a long time. She didn't want to move from his arms, and he wasn't about to let her go. He began to run his hand on her hair and down her back. She let out a sigh, as his hands moved over her. Linda wanted him to kiss her so badly. Just then George pulled away from her, looked into her eyes then slowly bent down to kiss her.
They began to kiss passionately, with a hunger for each other. He kissed all over her face and neck. Just as George moved to slide his hand under her blouse, and again she felt it.......
that icy cold stare!
Quickly Linda jerked away from George, and looked around. This made George confused, so he grabbed Linda's arm and asked “ What is it, Linda? Did I do something, what has you spooked?”
She had a terrified look on her face, so George pulled her close to him and hugged her tightly. Then he said, “ Linda I'm here and I will keep you safe!” She did feel safe in his arms. He could feel her trembling as they stood so George held her tighter. After awhile she calmed down some, so he slowly let go of her. He looked down at her, then said, “ Better?”
Linda answered sweetly, “ Oh yes George very much. You make me feels so good, I like you to George!”
George looked at Linda, and said “ I like you to, and I will be your knight in shining armor. I will protect you from any harm!”
Linda smiled and giggled at what George said. At first he got a weird look on his face, but the more he thought about it he laughed too. Linda's eyes sparkled as she asked, “ How about that cold drink?” then continued, “ I was going to go shopping, but I am not so much in the mood now. We could stay here and watch a movie if you'd like?” Linda looked at George with a hopeful look, hoping he would want to stay.
George smiled and happily said, “ Are you.......I mean, yes I would love to stay- bring on the popcorn!”
Linda said, “ Oh George I'm happy because I really didn't want to be alone right now.”
Oh Linda, there's nothing to worry about, you're safe with me” George said while he put his arms around her.
Linda rested her head on George's chest, and began to calm down. She let him hold her for a long time. Then after a few minutes she raised her head, looked up at George and asked “ Would you like that cold drink now?”
George laughed, then said “ Sure I guess.... you just feel so good in my arms.”
As she smiled, he kissed her and she began to kiss him back. Again he began moving his hands over her body, and went to reach under her blouse to put his hands on her breasts. Just as he reached to feel her left breast, she felt it again.....
............. that icy cold stare!
Linda jerked away from George and looked around, then yelled, “ Who's there? Why are you watching me?”
Linda looked at George with a terrified look, so George pulled her close and held her saying “ I've got you Linda, you'll be safe with me!
George looked around while he held Linda. He knew she wasn't faking this, he vowed to find out what was happening. Just who was doing this to her, and more importantly why! For now he would just hold her, comfort and try to keep her feeling safe.
George eventually moved her to the couch where he held her in his arms. Linda's body shook for a long time. He grabbed the blanket off the back of the couch and wrapped it around her. It wasn't that she was cold, but it was her nerves that caused her to shake uncontrollably. George held Linda until she finally dozed off, and slept from exhaustion.
As she sat there sleeping in his arms, he began to survey the room. He was looking to see if there was a place for someone to hide. When he knew she was good and fast asleep, he got up and looked over the room very carefully. All the while he wondered who would be so cruel to such a beautiful person like Linda?
George glanced over where Linda was sleeping and smiled. He thought ' she is such a delicate flower, I think I am falling in love with her!'
He quietly went to her kitchen, opened the refrigerator to get a ice cold beer out. As he walked back, he sat in an arm chair across from Linda. As he took slow drinks, he sat pondering over what was going on and how long this has been happening. He decided that he should talk to her neighbor, that squirrelly guy Randolf to see if he knew anything. Then he would do some investigating into the history of the building.
George looked around Linda's apartment and quietly said, “ It sure is a nice place.... but if Linda isn't feeling safe, her well being is more important.”
For now he would let her stay with him, if she couldn't find another place. That's if she wanted to move away from here. It would be her decision in the long run.
George watched her as she laid there quietly sleeping. He smiled at how beautiful she was, and how much he liked her. He never thought she would go form him though. Not to many women cared for the geeky types. He wondered what is was about him that she liked. He got up and walked across the living room, and opened the sliding glass door to go out on the balcony. It was an absolutely fabulous view, and knew she wouldn't move from here. So he decided it was time to do some investigating.
“ I'm going to find out who is doing this to Linda!” he said out loud.
“Find out what George?” Linda said as she walked onto the balcony.
George whipped around to see Linda standing in the doorway smiling.
George smiled back and said, “Hi there sleepyhead.”
She still had the blanket around her, but looked well rested after her nice nap.
“How are you feeling now Linda?” George asked meekly.
“Oh much better George, I think I may have been a tad over zealous. I was just freaking out over nothing. It's a new place and I am not used to all the quirks it seems to have, I guess.” Linda replied trying to convey some confidence.
“I'm sure that it was nothing.” George said while reaching out to pull her close to him.
“Uh huh” Linda sad while feeling his warm body next to hers.
He held her for about ten minutes. Linda felt safe in his arms, and was happy by how he made her feel. She didn't want him to leave, but knew he had to go home eventually. Finally he pulled away, and said “Well I hate to say this Linda, but it's late and I think I should go home. I have some things to do before I go to bed. But if you want I'll stay, and sleep on your couch.
“Oh I guess I should let you go home. I'm sure I'll be safe tonight” Linda replied happily.
George asked with a questioning look, “ You'll be alright by yourself then?”
“ Oh sure George, I will be fine. I'm just going to have a light dinner, do some reading then go to bed” Linda said .
Again George looked and asked, “Are you sure, Linda?”
Yeah George, I'm a big girl- I'll be fine” Linda said with a big smile.
“Okay, I will go, but don't hesitate to call me if something happens” George sad as he put his arms around her to give her a big hug. She then walked him toward the front door, then he turned to kiss her goodnight.
George opened the door, and again said “I'll see you at work in the morning. Now remember if anything unusual happens don't hesitate to call me Linda!” George said as he looked over the room once again.
While leaning on the doorway, she looked at him and said “ I will promise George. But don't worry I think it will be alright now. Whatever it was has been scared off by your presence!”
George kissed her on the cheek and again said “Lock up everything as soon as I leave, alright Linda.”
Linda shook her head saying, “I will George, believe me I will.”
George walked out so she could close the door, paused and stood quietly to hear that she was locking the door... then the click of the deadbolt. After smiling, he turned to walk to go down the stairs to his car and drive home. All the while he hoped she would have a peaceful night tonight.
Linda wasn't in the mood to eat a lot, so she just had a light snack. Then went to bed and tried reading, but she was soon dozing off to sleep.
chapter 4-
George's Quest
After George left Linda's place, he drove home and sat down on his easy chair thinking about the scare Linda had. He had never seen any woman get the way Linda was tonight. He vowed to make it his quest to find out what or better yet -who was behind all this. He had a nagging suspicion Linda's neighbor could shed some light on things. Maybe he seemed creepy, because she didn't know
him very well.
George blurted out “ Well, I can't do anything about it tonight, I might as well get some work done .”
He went to the kitchen to grab a snack and a cold drink, then over to his computer. It was his job to record the financial dealings for the company. This he did on a monthly basis, and was allowed to work at home. He told them that he could concentrate much better in a quieter environment. But tonight with what was going on with Linda, his mind kept wandering. Shaking his head, he muttered to himself “strange, very strange.”
After about two hours, George was finally done. He pushed his chair back, stretched, then got up. He picked up the bowl and empty cup and took them to the kitchen. As he walked out he stopped at the phone, put his hand on the receiver and debated on whether to call Linda. He looked at the clock and noticed it was 10:00 pm, so he decided against it. George hoped that she was fast asleep and resting peacefully.
Not knowing that although she was sleeping, “he “ was going into her room. Like always he waited until he was sure she was fast asleep. As he quietly moved closer to Linda again, he took the back of his hand and gently brushed her cheek. 'So delicate' he thought to himself, then gently kissed her lips, and slowly moved his head down to her neck. As he feed off her once again, this creature was planning to implant her with his seed. He hoped she would be the one who was pure enough to carry a child for him.
Normally Linda was easily awakened, but this night as “he” feed off her, it put her into a real deep sleep. His touch was like a warm breeze blowing over her. And as he climbed on top of her to impregnate her, the feeling she got was like a gentle wave of the ocean while he quietly rode her body. It was over to quickly for him, yet he lingered laying next to her until the break of dawn.
The next day, Linda woke up feeling very refreshed and energetic. She had no idea what happened during the wee hours of the morning. As Linda got up she stretched while walking to the bathroom to wash her face. As she looked in the mirror she again noticed two small red marks on her neck, still wondering how she got them.
She said loudly “ Wow, we must have big mosquito's around here.” Figuring that was the cause of the red marks she had been getting lately.
Linda headed for the kitchen to get some juice, and saw the empty beer bottle and remembered George being over last night. She smiled as she thought ' He was my knight in shining armor!” Remembering how he made her feel safe after her terrifying scare. Then how he helped calm her down, until she fell asleep.
Linda grabbed the juice from the refrigerator, while wishing George was still here. She found him unlike any man she had been attracted to before. After pouring a small glass of the juice, she went over, unlocked the French doors and went out onto the balcony.
Linda stood looking over the railing, and said “ Nothing could make me leave this place, and give up having this gorgeous view!”
Linda looked out at the park and down over to the lake, it was so peaceful in the morning. Only a few people were meandering about as she could see some shop owners heading to open there small shops. As Linda stood scanning the view, she spotted Randolf. He was leaning up against a light pole directly across from her apartment.
Shivering at the sight of him, she thought to herself ' I wonder what that creep is up to, and why is he watching my place?'
Just as she saw Randolf look up, he noticed she was staring down at him. He quickly diverted his gaze and headed for the taco stand. This time she didn't feel a cold sensation like before, for once Linda felt safe. Thinking it was just her imagination going wild. Maybe he was out for a morning stroll, like all the other people down below.
She was in to good of a mood to worry about what he or anybody else was doing. Off in the distance the church bells clanged- it was 8 o'clock. Taking a last glimpse around the lake, she turned and headed back inside. Linda set her glass on the table, then walked over to the radio to turn it on. The music resonating out was soothing. Her favorite had always been Jazz, so Linda started humming to it as she walked to her bedroom.
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw caught a glimpse shadow or what seemed to be one. But Linda shook her head, said “ Nope, not today, nothing is going to bother me!”
As she said that “he” retreated into the shadows, just out of her sight and watched. As she hummed, she pulled a skirt and top out of her closet. She felt like getting extra pretty for George, hoping they could have lunch again today. But if she didn't hurry and finish getting ready she would end up having to work through her lunch hour. Although she would get to see George it would be terrible if they couldn't spend time together.
Linda arrived at work a little earlier than normal. And when she arrived at her desk, she found a note folded up very neatly. She was very curious as to who left it, because nobody ever left her notes. As Linda sat down in her chair, she took the note and opened it. She immediately began smiling, when she noticed it was from George
.
She read the note quietly to herself:
“ Linda, I do hope you slept well.....
I have some things to work on,
so I will be gone most of the day.
I'll either call you or come over
after you are home tonight.”
love, George
Linda sat and stared at the note, wondering just what he could be doing. He never had to work outside the office, but then she'd only known him for a short time. So it could be a number of things, maybe even personal. She folded up the note, stuffed it into her purse and put it in the bottom drawer of her desk. As she looked up, René was laying a stack of files on her desk, smiled smugly, then replied “ Time for work Linda!”
Linda smiled back, saying “ Yes it is René!”
While Linda worked, George was off doing some research. He was determined to find out what was going on at Linda's place. Linda continued to work happily as she thought about George. Even humming to herself, as she began sorting through the many files that were piled on her desk.
While George was driving he wasn't sure just where to start, but he had a nagging feeling that her neighbor Randolf knew something. Linda was happy, so he didn't want to get her worried by mentioning anything yet. For now her happiness was foremost on his mind, and keeping her safe even if he had to bring her to his place to live.
Right now while she was at work , he would take the opportunity to go over and speak to her creepy neighbor. He was going to get to the bottom of the strange things that had been going on. To find out who or what was behind the terrifying scare she had been feeling! And maybe one day when he knew she was over at her mother's gardening, he would take the time to fully check out her apartment.
Chapter 5
Shadow in the Dark
A vague silhouette could barely be seen as “he” hid in the shadows. Rarely did he venture out during the day. Yet since she moved in he became more and more intrigued by her. He couldn't pinpoint just what it was about her that got to him. But he new that he had to try with this one, this wonderfully intriguing woman.
Although he had been with many women throughout the centuries, far more beautiful than she was. He even took it upon himself to take a few Princess's to try and mate with- but they proved by their actions they weren't worthy to bear his offspring. Still, he searched high and low through many countries for just the right one.
And since landing on the shores of America there was fresh blood to be had. Yet none could compare with this beauty, this intriguing woman who happened to practically fall in his lap. He wanted to come out in the open and have her as his own, yet he knew the time wasn't right. He needed to be more careful since she had that guy around now. Then the neighbor Randolf was always creeping around, trying to find out what happened to the former tenant.
Erik wasn't always this way, he was normal at one time. But as he stood deep in the shadows, he tried to remember that fateful day when he came to be one of the “immortals”. It had been so long ago that he had finally resigned himself to forever be this way. Having to be someone who hide in the shadows, only going out into the darkness of night. And having a dark complexion helped when he needed to blend in with the shadows of darkness.
Even though he was well over 100 years old, he still looked very handsome and dashing. One day he would show himself, and undoubtedly she would fall for him too. The women always did, even though he didn't want many of them. It was something that came with the territory- a curse from being immortal.
Erik was a tall, dark European, who had always been very charming. He tried being normal, but when he smelled the slightest hint of blood his appetite was sparked. He didn't want to transform Linda into the creature he'd become. He just wanted to have her bear his child, an heir to his legacy.
She would hopefully carry his child full term, so he would be able to watch it grow up. He even hoped the child would be a girl, then more of his kind would populate America. As far as he knew most of the others were gone, killed by the vampire hunters. That is why he became cautious, never letting anyone know about his true identity.
Not long after he moved into this apartment he disappeared, vanished from sight. Many who lived in the complex assumed he had moved or was killed. Only the creepy guy next door got the feeling he was still around. Erik thought about killing him..... but then it would be a waste of his time. And there were those who would leave a bad taste in his mouth, namely Randolf.
Erik quietly moved around what was once his home. The couch, lamps, and, tables were just a few of the items he brought over from his home in London. Slowly he began picking up her possessions, and held them to his nose inhaling the scent that was there. He found it intoxicating, feeling the urge to be near her again. But Linda wasn't home at the present time.
As he traveled to the bedroom, Erik stopped briefly to glance in the mirror- no reflection. How he missed being able to look at himself, to check and see if his hair was in place. Walking on he knew that his looks never changed. From the days of his youth it was the same, he was handsome as ever.
Slowly he traveled around the bedroom, looking at every little trinket. He smiled and thought 'she instinctively puts them in the same places that I would.' Turning and almost gliding across the floor, he went to her bed and laid back. Erik began picturing how it would feel having Linda resting next to him right now. He knew she had felt his presence, but he never meant to scare her. So he thought it would be best to stay hidden for now, just until she felt safe again.
As Erik rested on the bed he breathed in her perfume that seemed to linger on the covers. God he loved how she smelled and looked. This was his home once again, although he was residing up in the attic now. One day wishing he could live out in the open, never having to hide again. He also was hoping that through this woman he would have many offspring. Erik began to smile, bearing his sharp fangs while they glistened from the slight sun coming in from an eastern window.
Erik just began to get comfortable when he heard the sound of keys jingling. As he opened his eyes he thought to himself 'surely she is not home at this time of day?' Quickly he jumped up from the bed and went to one of the many hiding places that he created for himself. As he stood in the shadows he waited and listened... but nothing. It must have been one of the other tenants leaving.
So he came back out and slowly went back to her bedroom. He would just take another quick glance at the bed where she slept every night.
Tonight he would again come in when she was fast asleep. He would feed off her, just enough to put her into a trance like state. Then possibly he would have his way with her once again. Erik was hoping this would be the right time to impregnate Linda, but he would wait and see if she was going to be alone tonight.
He glanced up at the window, and noticed the sun was going down meaning she would be home soon. He took and breathed in once again capturing her smell, then went back up into the attic and waited. He would rest while he waited for her to arrive home.
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