SELENE WOODS

Perfect... I clutched a silk velvet tie, smiling warmly. This would look perfect on him. I raised it, the silver brooch glistening in the light. It had cost me an arm and leg, but it was totally worth it. I tucked the expensive tie away in its gold - trimmed box. My gaze focusing at the mirror's reflection; long dark hair and dark eyes with dark circles underneath. I took two steps backwards, making sure i'd adjusted my dress properly. Then i gripped the bag, the ropes delicate against my rough, calloused hands. Earned through years of running the house chores. I stared up the stairwell, breathing heavily. The wooden boards felt cold, my soles tingling each time i took a step. Then another. Standing before the grand oakwood doors, i paused - my breath hitching. Probably i might have dressed up a tad bit too much. Jason wasn't the type to fancy sophisticated things; he often found them quite complicating to deal with. My chapped lips parted, a soft sigh escaping them. The

My footsteps sounded light against the marbled tiles as i walked into Jason's study, the strong musty scent of books filled my nostrils and i could also pick up the faint scent of his cologne lingering in the air. I turned around gently, scanning the area in search of something. A safe. I looked at the shelves, using my fingers to carefully trace each book before finding a gap in between two large ledgers. Taking the books apart, i pulled out a little safe box from within, it wasn't too heavy, just enough to be pulled with two hands alone. There definitely had to be something in here, i was certain of it. I punched in the passcode, something i knew by heart as my hands trembled from anxious anticipation. The digital lock made a small beep, the door opening slowly. Almost as if it seemed eager to reveal the secrets hidden inside. My hands skimmed through the neatly arranged pile of documents and files, picking one at a random and quickly reading through it before placing it a

The sharp shrill sound of porcelain hitting the floor rung heavily in my ears. I turned, my gaze centered on the porcelain kettle now lying on the floor and Irina standing next to the shards, nursing her hands that had turned red from the spilled hot water. Jason rushed in, deftly pushing my aside as he rushed to Irina's aid. I winced, letting out a sharp cry....... The edge of the tiled kitchen counter sinking into my side. "Are you okay, Irina?!. Where does it hurt?" - Jason spoke in a soft caring tone, his eyes filled with indulgence. Irina wailed pitifully, her eyes watery with unshed tears. "Selene, i can understand that you don't like me. But did you really have to go this far just to vent out at me?" - She wiped the corners of her eyes with her delicate fingers but her eyes shone with a calculative glint. I stood still, my body still trying to absorb the earlier pain. Moving my lips, i calmly tried to offer an explanation, but Jason's strode towards me, his hands faster

"Thanks!" I bowed slightly, gripping my luggage, as i bid the driver one final good-bye. My eyes lingered quietly at the fading, red, taxi tail lights as he sped out of the driveway. "Here's my long expected guest." I glanced over my shoulders, eyes settling on the professor as he walked towards me. His face beaming with a warm,hearty grin. "Professor ~" - I beamed softly, pulling my luggage towards him. "It's been a long time since i've last seen you. You've grown taller...... and more beautiful, Selene." - he flattered, adjusting his gold-rimmed glasses as he scrutinzed my frame. " You look so much like your Mom, but you still have your Father's eyes." - He stretched his hands,opting to take my bag. "I'm much flattered, Professor. But i can carry my load just fine on my own." - I spoke softly, politely declining his generous offer. He frowned,creases forming between his grey brows - Obviously displeased. He parted his lips, sighing with disappointment. "Ah.....gone are t

I trudged back to the hotel, clothes and hands soaked in thick,red liquid - looking like i'd walked out of bloody, horror show. A thin layer of sweat coated my paled skin, making a few strands of hair to stick to my face. Luckily, i reached out to the paramedics on time. I didn't dare think what could have happened if he'd died in my arms. I swiped my room card, stepping into the shower without a moments delay. Leaning against the tiles, i stared at the red liquid as it went down the drains,soft pants escaping my lips as i tried holding steady. I was never going on a night stroll ever again!! ******************************* I walked into the busy office, head bowed deeply while my right hand clutched a steaming cup of black coffee. "Selene,where have you been all morning?. Don't tell me.....are you just coming to work this late?!" I paused, an exasperated sigh escaping my lips as i turned to look at Rachel. "Don't you ever feel uncomfortable walking in those tight skirts?.