Blissful Ignorance

Prologue:

It has never been easy for me to say what I feel. For some reason, my tongue would fail to pronounce what I wanted to say. Even when confronted, I could never properly convey my emotions, I would just swallow my pride and quickly resolve the matter. However, when I would write, it was like magic. I could make up the best scenarios, say all the right things, and always touch the readers’ hearts. A lot of people would always comment on how I was different through text as well, because at least then I could convey what my intentions and heart were at. Every single thing I have said or done was intentional, with purpose, with calculation. My mind and feelings were always silenced and bottled away.

Now, staring at the body in front of me, it was nothing like I had ever felt before. It was like everything in me was screaming, almost twisting in agony, but my body couldn’t move. The adrenaline from before had faded, resulting in a numbing sensation all around that made me wanna throw up. Their blood was matted into their hair, their bodies were now limp and pale. Their eyes... Cold. Lifeless.

The only coherent thought was of what had gotten me here, how I could’ve avoided everything with a miniscule action. Perhaps I could’ve even prevented this life from being lost, and that realization made the guilt start to consume me. My knees hit the hardwood floor harshly, but I couldn’t even notice.

What now? Twenty-five and kneeling by a dead body. No doubt my parents would be proud.

Chapter One - The Coffee Shop:

The cold morning air brazed my cheeks intensely as soon as I opened the door. My coat did nothing to help with the slight chill, but it was my favorite part of the day so I didn’t mind. My heels clicked down the apartment steps, and I frowned as the concrete slightly scraped against their bottoms. Usually, I would’ve dressed casually with white sneakers, but the boss enjoyed formally dressed employees. The thought of my uncle made me nauseous, he was always leering and staring at me with a disappointed attitude when he showed up to inspect the office, as if I wasn’t doing my best. Which I wasn’t, but that wasn’t the point. My father had implored my very distant uncle to hire me last week, because writing wasn’t a real career, and I could never make a living out of a pen. My parents wanted me to do better than them, to be financially stable like my uncle, but I didn’t want that. I had never really intended for them to know what I aspired to be, but my nosy parents had snooped through my mail, and found out about the publishing agent I was trying to get in contact with. Not that I had any luck, but still, I had hoped to finally strike gold as a thriller/novel creator. The agent said the plot and content was good, but that it lacked a certain gusto and authenticity to the crimes and kills, that maybe with a whole new editing and proofread, that they would seriously consider publishing it. I cursed myself, regretting ever sending that draft. Because then maybe I wouldn’t be here in New Jersey, mindlessly working and writing commercials for some marketing company about dumb electronic products.

I huffed, the black pencil skirt seemed to make my thighs inseparable, which bugged me to no end. I wasn’t used to expensive or formal clothes, nevertheless living on my own, but my uncle insisted on it. And I quote, ‘She’ll focus on her work without distractions’. I wanted to quit, to get out from the hand of my overbearing parents, yet I couldn’t stop myself from wanting to please them. However, the nylon stockings did help with the chafing as I walked quickly down the pavement, so that was a good thing from the formal outfit. The long sleeve and garnet blouse also looked good, but showed too much cleavage for my liking when tucked into the skirt and belt, which was annoying when working around a lot of men who were mostly twice my age. I smirked, thinking of how they would cringe when I practically sneered at them when looking my way.

The streets were slightly abuzz, everyone on their way to work, but still missing it’s usual packed charm that New York’s sibling state had, which made sense because it was just before six. Waking up an hour early for work, although it would show incentive for my uncle, had taken its toll on me. I wasn’t exactly awake yet, and normally I would just get some coffee from the breakroom, but even now as I briskly walked down the street, my mind was too numb and my eyes were too heavy for me to function properly. This was a problem for many reasons, and I couldn’t take another glare from my ‘boss’, so I walked towards the first coffee shop I saw. ‘Kawaii Palace’, read at the top of the building in cursive. The outside had been plastered with dark green and pastel pink balloons, and had a chalkboard sign that was written with beautiful cursive, and enticed me with it’s delicious coffee names. The terrace just outside the front door was beautifully decorated with flowers, and was filled with people here and there drinking their lattes in their seats. The bricks on the small building looked worn, but still inviting and complimented the small and cute cafe.

I checked my phone, and hurriedly slipped it back in my satchel after seeing it had taken me ten minutes alone to walk here. I walked in, breathing in the smell of coffee with a pleased hum, and making my way to the line. As I waited, I quickly realized how adorable the coffee shop looked on the inside just as it did on the outside. The thin white tiles were decorated with pink diamonds every other tile, and the walls were dark green with a single white line all across. The counter was simple and plain, painted beige of all colors. It was so open inside, not much besides tables and a small rope for the line. Unlike Starbucks which always bombarded the public with their merchandise by the line, giving me claustrophobia with it’s large scene. I inhaled again slowly, relishing in the smell of baked goods once again and the promise of a good coffee. Before I knew it, it was my turn to go up to the cashier. I approached, not really paying attention until I looked up, and did a double take. The cashier was about my age, with porcelain skin, pitch black hair, and bright turquoise eyes. His ears were pierced with studs, and he had chipping black nail polish which allured me even more. It hadn’t surprised me to see such an alpha male was at a cute establishment like this, I mean, why would it matter? But what surprised me was their eyes, because even though they wore a smile and had a relaxed demeanor, their eyes told me it was the opposite. There was an inexplicable fire in them that shook my core, and I purposely did a small nervous chuckle to make up for the brief silence, which always worked when words failed me. He chuckled too, but I sensed he was still annoyed with my obvious staring, and I did my best smile. Luckily, there was nobody behind me, so it wasn’t like I was pressured to rush, though I did need to go soon. Maybe I didn’t need coffee anymore. Their negative vibes were enough to wake me up, so I should probably go.

“So what can I get you?” His voice was smooth, with a slight edge of rasp to it. For some reason, it was a pleasing voice, and it made me want to hear more.

“This is my first time here. What would you recommend exactly?” I was always one to make sure I knew exactly what I was getting into. From the menu, I could see some familiar sounding mochas, but still I wanted to hear him speak to me. About the coffee, of course.

He raised an eyebrow with a small smirk, and the fire in his eyes seemed to get worse. “I personally think the double chocolate mocha has its appeal, but if you’re more into the sweet stuff...” He gripped onto the counter, leaning onto it which flexed his arms. I tried not to show my reaction, but I obviously drew too much attention to them with my eyes because his smirk seemed to grow. “I would go with a strawberry frap.”

I couldn’t ignore the fact that what he was saying had a double meaning; an innuendo, if you will. That’s what it seemed like, at least. His voice was really layered on in a coy manner, so it was hard to tell. But I assumed he was the double chocolate, and he thought I couldn’t handle him? That I needed Ken the barbie as my perfect husband? Like I said before, I hate confrontation and absolutely never show what I’m really thinking. The one thing I hated more than confrontation, though, were assumptions.

“I think I can handle some double chocolate.” I scoffed, squaring my shoulders instinctively, but to no use. From his 5’10” stature, I was a mere troll standing at 5’4” with heels, so you can see why me trying to be taller was to no avail.

His mouth fell into an amused grin, “What size?”

I resisted looking at his grin, thinking of all the cliche situations that have inspired his innuendo about size, and shook my head amusedly. “Medium is fine.”

He grabbed a cup from the side, biting the cap off a sharpie even though it wasn’t that sanitary, and took it in his hand. He had sharp canines, and for some reason it made a chill go up my spine. He looked at me expectedly, making a serious expression. “And who is it for?”

I glanced at his nametag, just observing it for the first time. Spencer, it fit him so well that it almost made me smile. I grabbed my wallet out of my purse, preparing to pay as I got my debit card out. “Mallory, or just Mal. Either is fine.”

Spencer nodded, “Your order will be ready soon.”

He waved the next customer over, and I went to take a seat by the window. I couldn’t think much yet, but maybe I should’ve ordered a pastry as well. I’ll remember that for next time…

I pulled out my phone, bored, and looking through Instafam. I kept in touch with a couple friends here and there, but it was really hard with long distance. There was always one friend I kept in contact with, though. Nora, who I thought was amazing for various reasons. For one, they always supported me and encouraged me to speak out about what I really wanted. Two, they were the craziest person I know, and when I say crazy, I mean crazy. She made everything fun and spontaneous. Needless to say, Nora was my best friend. She wouldn’t have woken up yet, since she was definitely not a morning person, but I sent a ‘Good morning’ text anyways.

My name rang out from the counter, and it sounded smooth and alluring from Spencer’s lips, I was almost proud to have my name said by him, even though he probably read other’s names all the time. I walked over to the counter, reaching out for my frap. His arm extended, handing it to me like any other employee would. I grabbed the cup from him, our fingers slightly grazing each other’s. My eyes slightly widened, looking up at him in surprise with a sharp inhale. He gave me a once over with a stone cold expression, clenching and unclenching his jaw as he turned to go back to the cashier.

I lightly shook my head, scolding myself for reacting so dramatically. He was obviously indifferent to me, and here I was overthinking things. However, as I sat, I could feel someone’s stare, and I surveyed the store to find Spencer quickly turning around. I felt my cheeks go hot, and I slowly sipped at my frap, I wanted to revel in this before a mind-numbing day at work would begin. I pulled out my favorite literature app, reading fantasy romance and other interesting genres. It felt like he was staring for hours as I pretended to be oblivious to it, but as my alarm went off, it felt like seconds had passed. Now, I would only be ten minutes early, taking into account the walk of course. I grumbled under my breath, standing up and placing my phone back into my purse, and placing the empty plastic cup into the recycling bin. I glanced back, seeing the mesmerizing cashier gazing at me, but not looking away this time. I smiled and waved, before turning without another glance to see if he’d do it back. I was scared he wouldn’t.

I got to work just on time, yet not good enough for my boss, because he just raised an eyebrow then turned away to continue talking to a coworker. I sat at my desk, trying to dig myself into work as deep as I could so I wouldn’t focus on my disappointing existence. It worked, and as soon as I logged off at three pm, I was eager to buy a pastry at the coffee shop. He probably had switched shifts by now, but I didn’t care. The thought of that cute guy being there fueled my walking speed, and I opened the door to the cafe a little too hasty for my taste. I frowned, not seeing him among the cafe’s employees. Nonetheless, I was going to get a pastry. I stood in line just like this morning, my eyes wandering the cafe’s pastel decorations, and my thoughts wandering my day so far. I was about to be next, and I rested my hand on my purse to be able to pay without a struggle to get my wallet out quickly. From the corner of my eye, I saw a man with a leather jacket, black T-shirt, and skinny jeans come out of the back door by the counter. He looked punkish, looking down with his shaggy and curly black hair, his pierced black ears, and his nail polish. He looked up, and I swallowed. It was Spencer, but I just couldn’t tell because earlier he had been wearing a cap which covered his hair. He looked even better in his regular clothes, but why wouldn’t he? I saw his eyes meet mine, and I quickly averted them towards the floor, trying to act inconspicuous. I heard the cashier call out for the next person, so I walked up quickly. Looking up, I wasn’t expecting him to be my cashier again. The cashier next to him opened the other register, and it quickly divided into two lines. Well, everyone else recognized he was most likely toying with me, and went to the other line. At least I didn’t have to rush this encounter. He gave me a smirk, seeing my surprised expression, but I rolled my eyes and took on a stern face.

“Didn’t expect to see you again so soon.” He leaned against the small computer, looking up at me with a smug face. I resisted glaring, not to much avail, and scanned the pastry section of the menu.

I shrugged, “What can I say? I like double chocolate.” He nodded, pressing a couple buttons on the small register. “Weren’t you about to leave?” I felt bad for a second, thinking I used too much edge in my voice that it would drive him off.

He shrugged, “What can I say? I like people who like double chocolate.” I felt reassured, knowing it wasn’t just me, and that I wasn’t driving him off.

“Great minds think alike.” He raised an eyebrow, almost looking bored now at my use of the phrase.

“Though fools seldom differ.” He looked up, wanting to read my reaction at his somewhat insult.

“Fools have the funnest time.” I smirked in a petty manner, feeling particularly snarky now. “Also, a cream cheese croissant please?”

“‘Funnest’ isn’t a word. Like I said, fool.” He shook his head with a small smile, “And good choice.”

Me, a fool? Who did this man think he was? I huffed, crossing my arms, “All words are made up. And that’s my new made up word now. So-”

“But grammar dictates that ‘funnest’ isn’t a word because-”

“Yeah, okay, sure. But that’s in the english language. I have taken it upon myself to adopt it, and make it new.”

He finished inputting the items, “Your total’s ten bucks.” I grabbed my card, swiping and typing my pin in. “So what’s the name of this new language?” Spencer had a full blown grin now, almost happy at the banter we had. I, however, was annoyed now.

“That’s classified. You have to know how to speak the language, before you can know the name.” I raised an eyebrow, putting my wallet back in my purse. He handed me the receipt, taking a good couple of seconds to graze the back of my hand with his thumb. His turquoise eyes looked up at me from under his lashes, almost innocently. I felt myself blush, and quickly snatched the receipt from him. For a moment, I imagined holding his hand again, his gaze transfixed on me.

“Sorry, I don’t think I understood. It’s hard to decipher dumbasses, but I’ll try next time.” Moment over... I gave him a quick once-over, feeling angrier than ever. I glared and flipped him off, before turning and walking to the other side, just waiting for my order. I averted my eyes when I walked up to get it, I had grabbed my drink and was just going to grab my pastry when he grabbed my hand tight. I looked up at him with a glare, and he just cocked his head in a challenging manner.

I scoffed, rolling my eyes as I pulled my hand from his with haste. It wasn’t a long way from home, but I was still drained from work, so I sat down at the table from before and ate my pastry. I tried not to glance at him, but it was hard to resist when I could feel his stare on me. Whenever our eyes met, I tried not to feel embarrassed and just raised an eyebrow. He smirked at me. Ugh, the audacity this man had was insane. I wanted to strangle him and kiss him at the same time.

Nevertheless, I returned everyday before work and after work. After the third day, I started ordering different things on the menu, just to be able to try it all. Every time I was there, he stared. I tried to look at him, but when I did, it was just a glare. It was a week later, full of snarky banter and pensive stares, yet it was one of the only things that excited me about my boring routine. It was a Friday, and I had walked in for my usual morning coffee, ordering from Spencer and walking to my spot by the window. I brought my laptop today, knowing I’d need it for work. I heard someone approach, and I smirked without looking away from my screen.

“Thanks, Spencer.” My voice dripped with sarcasm, “It took you long enough-” I stopped mid-sentence seeing one of my coworkers. His name was Hal, a tall and stocky man who was bent on flirting with me every chance he got, which wasn’t much since we both worked in different departments. He was around his early thirties, which creeped me out because he was at least ten years older than me, and absolutely couldn’t take a hint. He placed his cup on the table, sitting across from me with almost a smug expression. I withheld my sigh, “Good morning, Hal. What brings you to this coffee shop?”

I leaned back, trying to remain stoic and calm through this conversation, no matter how annoyed I was that he just invited himself to sit down with me without asking how I felt, just like everybody else. His freckles and ginger hair seemed too cheery to be on someone so obnoxious.

“Well, I saw my cute friend who works with me come in here while I was driving, so I thought, ‘Why not see how she is?’” He chuckled to himself, almost trying to look cute. He wasn’t cute at all, at least not to me. “I mean, do you come here often?”

I scoffed, “Really? That’s the line you’re going with?” At least something original would’ve been nice…

Hal grinned, “I was hoping I’d go with you tonight, but-”

“Dude, seriously. Not even a date first?” I shook my head, feeling repulsed. This man was clinically insane…

He shrugged, pointing to his coffee on the table. “We’re getting coffee together. This could be a date.”

“Not very likely.” I glanced over to the counter, impatient to get my frap and leave. But then Hal would just follow me to the office, and I’d be stuck there. If he tried to walk me home that could be dangerous…

“Now why not?” He placed his hand under his chin, almost in a pose for cuteness. I raised an eyebrow, feeling more aggravated.

“I’m pretty sure my uncle, the ‘boss’, doesn’t allow romance in the workplace. And even if he did, you’re the last person I’d go out with.” Usually, I would’ve politely declined, but men like this truly antagonized me to no end. Being assertive wasn’t a choice with someone like him.

“Not even as friends?”

I smirked, “Especially as friends.”

He nodded, his smug expression not failing, “We’ll see about that. I’ll walk you to work.”

Hal stood, waiting for me to join him. I turned towards the window, blatantly ignoring him. There were still thirty minutes before work started, I wanted to get my drink and take my time enjoying what was left of the morning, which involved glaring and snarky banter with Spencer. His smirk turned into a frown, and his expecting eyes turned into a glare. He suddenly reached over and gripped my wrist harshly, “You’re coming with me. Now.”

He tried to get me to stand, and I huffed in protest. “No, I’m not.” I tried to twist my arm out of his reach, but it only got worse. I winced, his grip starting to really hurt now. I could feel people’s stares, no one even saying a word in protest at the scene, and I started to panic. “Let go! Ow, that hurts- Hal!”

I sharply inhaled in relief when I felt his grip loosen all at once, and I looked up in surprise to see Spencer in between us. His hand was on Hal’s chest, and his tall stature loomed over him in dominance. Utter relief flooded over me, and I felt so grateful for this annoyance in my life to suddenly go away with a small wave of my savior’s hand. It made him all the more attractive to me, which was a curse in disguise. It would make me stay up all night, thinking of endless fantasies that might never come true.

“Sir, I think I’m going to have to ask you to leave now.” His voice, although smooth, held a sharp edge and the way my body reacted was unholy.

Hal clenched his jaw, “So what? Is this the reason you said no?”

I scoffed as Spencer suddenly looked to me in confusion. I ignored his questioning state, “I said no because you’re a piece of shit.” I smirked at Hal’s shocked expression, “I was being nice at first but-“

He practically snarled, and Spencer’s arm reflexively placed himself in front of me. I swallowed, anxious as he spoke.

“No. You didn’t even try to be nice. You were rude, disrespectful… I tried to be civil. But if this is the way things are going to be, so be it.” Hal’s dark green eyes gave me a cynical once over, and I felt my mouth instinctively form into a hint of a snarl.

He left, and I swore I could feel all the hatred in my body drift away. I turned towards Spencer, “Thanks for the help, but-“

He scoffed, “Let me guess. You had it covered?”

I raised an eyebrow, crossing my arms, “Yeah, and what about it?”

He shook his head, his pink lips forming an amused smile. “Nothing. Just thinking about how I should have left you, to you know, handle it. You probably would’ve ended up on the news tomorrow, or maybe his wife forever. Either way, I wouldn't have to deal-.”

“Why do you have to be such an ass? The snarky banter was cute, and for a second- just a second I thought maybe you’re a decent guy when you helped me. Instead of pushing someone you might like away, why don’t just try to be honest?” I felt my body seethe, his face taken aback with my sudden and brazen truth. “Maybe you’d have more friends that way.” I grabbed my purse from the chair, snatching my drink and pastry from his hand, and shoving past him and out the cafe. Men in general were so infuriating, maybe I should just get a girlfriend.

When I showed up to work, I was relieved to be able to make it to my desk without any conflict. Today was a casual day, so I just had a baggy knit sweater and some leggings, with some combat boots. I was about to get to writing immediately, but noticed I didn’t have my laptop. I cursed, I wasn’t going to be able to write today and turn it in on time, unless I left to get it from the cafe. I would have to notify our manager, who would notify the boss. I looked around, trying to analyze who had the warmest expression. Most of them were focused on work, understandably. There was a guy in the back, looking down directly at something else, and he wouldn’t seem to need his laptop. I hated having to get up in front of everyone, which gave me hard nostalgia from public school, and I tried to ignore the nerve-wracking feeling it gave me as I walked over to his cubicle.

I walked up to him, and he looked stunned to see me in front of him. “Hi, sorry. My name’s Mal, I work a couple cubicles away, but I forgot to bring my laptop in today. And I looked back here, and noticed, ‘Hey, he isn’t using the laptop, so maybe he’ll lend me his-’”

“They.”

“Sorry, what?”

“My pronouns are they, and them.”

I gasped, “Oh my god. I’m so, so sorry. I didn’t mean to offend you or assume your pronouns-”

“It’s okay. You’re not the first, so-”

“But I should be the last. I’m really sorry.” I turned, feeling utter embarrassment for being the one to assume someone’s gender. Not to mention how it must’ve made them feel.

“Hey, didn’t you need the laptop?” I looked at them in confusion, feeling ever more grateful as I hesitantly took the laptop they held out.

“I’ll give it back in thirty minutes top. Swear.” They smiled, and I grinned back before walking back to my cubicle.

It wasn’t that hard to work fast, considering I love to write, but what really drained me was having someone’s pitched idea for the commercial come to life, especially since some would be so fickle about it. It was annoying really. I had wanted to spend my life casual, at home rewatching my favorite movies and reading, not spending my life at a job I loathed. Like I said, I wanted to quit- but being away from my parents, and my pride was a better contrast to having to go back. Not to mention the grief I’d get about it for years, and this job was better than ever living off my parents again as a twenty-five year old. It was more like two hours, but I quickly submitted the script, and got up to give it back to them.

“Hey! Thanks for letting me use the laptop, sorry I took longer than I thought.”

They smiled and nodded, grabbing it back and opening it to work. I wanted to walk away, but the promise of a new friend kept me from walking away.

“I never got your name, by the way.” I felt awkward, as one always does when trying to make a new friend.

They grinned, “My name’s Alex.” They held their hand out, and I shook it eagerly.

“Yeah. It’s nice having someone to talk to at work. I’ve only been working here for a couple months, I wish I would’ve lost my laptop sooner.”

We chuckled, and I saw the manager out of the corner of my eye. I cringed, knowing they might spot me ‘slacking’ off.

“I’m gonna go back to my desk before I get written up, but I’ll talk to you later?”

They nodded, “Sure.”

I quickly walked to my cubicle before my manager could notice, not really knowing what to do. I looked through the recent file for pitched ideas, discarding the bad ones and leaving the decent ones. I put the decent ones in my bag, saving them for when I would go home and actually work on them. I looked back to my desk, unsatisfied how it was messy and disorganized. Every other week it would end up like this without my noticing. I started cleaning, putting the papers into their chosen files, and discarding trash here and there. I put the available actors for the commercials into my bag as well, along with the budgets for each project. I didn’t have much to do on the weekends anyway, and not having my laptop handy right now had me held up a little. I looked underneath, finding some pencils and pens and putting them in the pencil holder. I looked around, not really finding a janitor nearby, so I quickly went into the restroom. I grabbed a paper towel, wetting it a little, and going back to wipe down the desk, PC monitor, and anything else a little dusty.

I frowned at my desk as I threw away the paper towel, feeling it was a little bland. I should decorate more. Gotta put that on a reminder for this weekend…

I sat back down, not being able to do much besides write ideas on my notepad, and doodle here and there. I was bored, and wishing I had work to do for once. The time passed by agonizingly, but it eventually passed, and work was over. I tucked my notepad into my bag as well, and waited for Alex by the elevator. They smiled when seeing me by the door.

“Hey, Mal.”

“Hey.” We caught the second ride down together, and it relieved me that today wasn’t a complete waste of my life. “So, which way do you go home?”

“When I exit the building, I usually go right.” They looked at me with a hopeful smile, their platinum blonde hair framing their tan face with elegance.

“Ah, well I usually go left. Plus, I had actually left my laptop at this cafe, not really at home, so I gotta go pick it up. If you want, you can totally come with-”

The elevator rang as it descended on the first floor, opening as my coworkers and I left it eagerly.

“Actually, I have something planned today. But if you want, we can totally hang out tomorrow?”

“Yeah, that sounds cool. Wanna exchange numbers?”

They nodded as we walked out the doors to the building, pulling out our phones and exchanging numbers. I called their number, smiling when their phone rang. “I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

They smiled, waving and turning away. I felt glad, until I turned around. Hal stood a couple feet away with a smirk, as people walked between our view, and I tried to blend in with them, walking amidst them. I bumped into something, and I froze when I realized it was a man’s chest. I looked up quickly, almost afraid to see Hal there, but it was just Spencer. He had on a baggy black sweater and blue skinny jeans, almost matching except for his converse.

I blushed, pulling away from his chest, and trying not to smile. “What are you doing here?”

“I figured I’d take your advice, and be honest.” He looked down, motioning to my laptop in his hand. I couldn’t help but really grin, both relieved and grateful.

“You have no idea how happy I am that you’re here.” I took the laptop and placed it in my bag, feeling awkward as we just stood there for a second. I bit my lip, rocking on my heels and looking around. I saw Hal in the same spot, glaring, and I frowned.

“Mal.”

I looked up with a sheepish smile, embarrassed for not hearing what he was saying, “Sorry. You were saying…?”

“I was saying, if you’d like me to give you a ride home?” His slightly pleading expression made me melt, and I couldn’t say no to him. That, and Hal was obviously more bent on being with me than I originally thought, so him being with me would be safer.

I nodded, “I would love that.”

Spencer bit his lip with a hint of a smile, and moved to motion to his car parked a couple feet away. It was a black Jeep, and practically identical to its owner. I didn’t think there was much wisdom in having a car in this city, but it was better than not having a car. He opened the passenger door for me, looking away with a light blush. I smiled, thanking him as I sat on the passenger seat, and in awe of how clean and new the car felt. The leather was black, as most of the car was, and was held in almost new condition. I put my seatbelt on as Spencer opened the door and sat in the driver’s seat, putting his on as well. He looked over, almost taking in the fact I was in his car now, and having an expression of awe.

“Ready?”

“Yeah.” He started the car, and started driving. I suddenly grinned, remembering I never told him my address, and maybe it’d be a good opportunity to spend some more time together.

“So how was work today? After I left, I mean.” This was my idea for distraction; talking and getting his mind out in the open.

“It was calm, but my manager gave me a hard time for spending so much time around you whenever you’re there.”

“Sorry, I didn’t know I was so distracting.” I giggled, almost wanting to blush at the fact.

He shook his head with a grin, “Maybe instead of distracting me at work, you can distract me outside of it.”

I lightly scoffed, “Is that an invitation?”

“Only if you want it to be.”

I shook my head. Another minute passed as he drove aimlessly, and I smirked when we reached a red light a couple blocks from my house, “So how did you know where I worked?”

He sheepishly smiled, his pink lips distracting me as he glanced over to my side for a second, “I saw the company logo sticker on your laptop, looked up the office in the city… then I calculated the time you usually come into the cafe for the second time… and yeah. I figured you need it.”

I raised my eyebrows in surprise, feeling heat in my cheeks. He did all that just to give me my laptop back, when he could’ve just waited for me to come get it.

“Oh, fuck. Sorry, I totally forgot.” He looked to me, turning his body as his arm held the back of my seat. “Where do you live?”

I couldn’t help smiling again, “Two blocks down from the cafe, and opposite of the park.”

He nodded, repeating the directions under his breath. “So, how do you know the douche?”

I chuckled, “His name is Hal-”

“I heard you say his name. I just don’t give a fuck.” He shrugged as he made a U-Turn, giving me a small smirk.

“Well, we work together. Not in the same department, so I don’t see him everyday. Thank God, but he’s been really determined to get me to go out with him. Today was one of the many times he tried to force me to go to work with him, and he never really got physical until today.” I shrugged, looking out the window. “I guess I need to be more on guard now.”

He huffed, “You shouldn’t have to be. He should just take the hint and fuck off.”

I laughed, “I wish it was that simple with psychos like him. He’s probably a serial killer or something.”

He let out a small chuckle, “Serial rapist, probaby. Serial killer? Not likely.”

I frowned, thinking about the women he’s tormented besides me. The car pulled to a stop in front of my apartment complex, I twiddled my fingers as I looked up to him. “Well, this is the place.”

I didn’t wanna leave the car just yet, feeling as if something else was left to say. Spencer held out his hand for a handshake, and I looked at him confused.

“Friends?” He gave me a lopsided smile, and a small blush formed around his cheeks.

I felt stunned. No one had ever asked me what I wanted, what I needed. Some people would just assume what was best for me, and make decisions for me. My parents, my uncle, some of my coworkers, and some of my so-called friends. He was one of the few people who asked me what I wanted. Spencer, Alex, and Nora were the only ones I could talk to so far.

I smiled, “Friends.” I opened the door, grabbing my things before leaning in again, “See you tomorrow at the cafe?”

“See you tomorrow.” He smiled with a wink before I closed the door. I waved as he drove off, and I sighed in bliss at the promise of seeing him again.

I dug my keys out of my purse, unlocking the gate to the complex before closing it behind me. I walked up the stairs to the right, walking into my apartment in earnest. My apartment was very simplistic, the hardwood floor decorated with white rugs in each room, and some posters of things I adored here and there on the walls. The kitchen was to my right, the bedroom and bathroom to my left, and the living room in front of me. I locked my front door immediately, placed my things on the table, and laid down on the couch with a relaxed sigh. Before I knew it, I woke up to a dark and quiet living room. I groaned, sitting up and turning on the television just for some background noise. I got up and stretched, another loud groan escaping me as I felt my muscles contract for a second. I checked the watch on my wrist, seeing it was already eleven at night. I slipped off my shoes, grabbing them and going to my room. I placed the shoes into the closet, before changing into some shorts and a long Tee. I took off my watch and jewelry and placed them on my nightstand, then ruffling my hair out of my bun.

“The police have just stated the man who was found mutilated an hour ago in Elmoy alley has now been identified as Hal Mullard. Witnesses say…”

The words didn’t register at first since I was distracted, but as the gears in my head turned, I let out a loud gasp as I ran to the living room. I placed my hand over my mouth in disbelief, seeing Hal’s picture on the news program on the television was almost scarring. That alley was right next to my house, and the thought gave me chills.

“A video that went viral for a heroic man’s interference earlier today, resurfaced moments ago of an encounter the victim had been involved in that could be linked to his death.” My body struggled against his, shouting before Spencer quickly walked in between us. Hal’s low and menacing voice spoke those same words again, this time for the whole city to hear before he walked out of the cafe. Did that mean I was a suspect? Did we really go viral? “Faces have been blurred due to privacy laws, but the police are taking action to question the people involved, and possibly solve this brutal murder.”

I swallowed, grasping my neck in anxiousness as the newswoman spoke more facts about the ‘victim’. Hal was dead, and I was a suspect. I don’t even have an alibi, either. They couldn’t do anything besides hold me for a bit, but otherwise I was in the clear. My phone rang, and I answered the call quickly when I saw it was Alex.

“Are you watching this?”

I nodded, but remembered they couldn’t see me and huffed, “Yeah, I am. This is crazy.”

“That was you in the cafe, right? The one Hal was harassing?”

“Is it really that easy to tell?”

“Yeah, I mean, you’re wearing the exact same outfit. I heard they’re gonna question the whole company in case he harassed other women as well.”

I sighed, “Yeah, he was super creepy towards me today. I guess he got what was coming to him.”

“Yeah, but mutilation? That is intense…”

“Yeah, super excessive.” I muted the television, leaning back with another sigh, “He almost followed me home, but that same guy from the cafe gave me a ride and saved me again.”

“Is he your boyfriend?”

I chuckled, “Nope. Just a friend.”

“Ah, I see. Well, when you get the chance, you should totally introduce us.” I smiled at the way they would meet up with someone they barely knew.

“You can’t even his body, though.”

“Doesn’t make him any less attractive, though.”

I shook my head, “Yeah, well, he can still be an ass. A nice one, but an ass.”

“An ass is just what I need to get my mind off things.” I could practically hear their coy smile from the other end of the phone, and I just laughed.

“So what time are we on for tomorrow?”

“Um, honestly, I don’t know. I wake up pretty late on the weekends, but I’ll let you know?”

“Yeah, no it’s fine. I’m pretty much free all day tomorrow, so whenever is fine to me. What do you wanna do?”

“Hmm. Well, I haven’t been out much, but maybe wanna go to a club at night instead?”

I thought about it, not really seeing the appeal, but I was willing to try new things. “Why not?”

“Nice!” They lightly gasped, “Oh! And make sure if you see the cafe-man again, that you invite him!”

“I’ll try. But if he can’t make it, don’t hold it against me.”

Alex chuckled, “I won’t. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, Alex.”

They hung up on that note, and I bit my lip in concentration as I turned off the television. Would Hal have been alive if I agreed to go on a date with him? No, it’s not okay to let him treat you like that. His death had nothing to do with you. My stomach growled, interrupting my inner turmoil.

I walked to the kitchen, fixing myself two peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and a cup of milk. I drank and ate quietly, thinking about the whole situation in depth. Hal being gone wasn’t sad to me, but just weird. It was troubling that there was a murderer in the area, but also a relief he was gone from my life permanently. I finished my small meal, putting my dishes in the sink, and then grabbing my phone as I walked to bed. I texted Nora, even though she was already asleep, about the crazy things going on over here. I settled into the covers, succumbing to sleep.

I stirred awake to a knock on my door, and I shook my head as I snuggled more with the pillows. The knocking came again, louder and more fierce. I groaned, stomping towards the door half asleep. I looked through the peephole, my eyes widening as my sleepy haze quickly disappeared.

I unlocked the door hesitantly, opening it a little, “Yes?” My voice was still hoarse, and I felt embarrassed.

A man stood there with his short, dark brown hair framing his face, a black trench coat and slacks. The woman next to him wore slacks and a blazer, her ponytail was slicked back in contrast to the rest that was curled. Something tells me they’re detectives…

The man spoke curtly, “This is Detective Montgomery and I’m Detective Juliard. We’re here to ask you a few questions, is that okay?”

“Yeah, sure. Come in.” I opened the door wide, allowing them to walk in past me. The door closed with a quiet, yet firm thud. I locked it.