⚠️ Violence, blood, sexual harrassment
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The Dove
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I walk over to my tallboy drawers. Pulling out items of clothing in search for something nice to wear. I glance at the mirror above the dresser, scrutinising my reflection. Dark circles underscore my eyes, telling tales of late nights and early mornings spent poring over legal documents, learning about tax regulations and financial reports, preparing to assist Zeke in managing his businesses. These tasks felt tedious at times, my lack of experience sometimes causing missteps.
However, Zeke had ensured that I received thorough training. And despite the stress of adjusting to life in New Orleans, he continually assured me that everything would become second nature soon enough. His confidence bolstered mine, giving me the courage to tackle every challenge head on. But it was still fucking exhausting. My attire ready, sporting a short lilac dress, I step out into the warm, inviting embrace of the Louisiana night. Miniature lights illuminate the charming, quaint buildings surrounding me, creating a vibrant atmosphere full of promise. As I'm shutting the gate to the condos courtyard, movement in my peripheral vision catches my glance. I look over. And there, just out of the streetlights warm glow, the shadowed outline of a man stands. Staring in my direction.
He doesn't move closer, nor does he attempt to hide himself deeper within the darkness. Instead, he simply observes me with a piercing intensity. His presence fills me with an odd mixture of fascination and dread. He's dressed in all black, a hoodie with a jacket overtop casts a shadow over his features. I can't make any out, but I can tell he's a male. His figure stands tall, broad shoulders and his muscular arms are visible under the shined fabric. Indicating his jacket is made of black leather.
I stare back. My hand still holding the black metal gate into its hitch. The beep of the security pin machine pings as it waits for me to set it's lock. I look away, making a point to set the lock, my actions slightly exaderated in hopes of him seeing what I was doing. 6969. Typical Zeke. Always making prudent male jokes. I hear one final beep, signalling the lock was set until I re entered the pin whenever I come back home. I'm not sure how long I plan on spending out tonight.
I turn around in the direction I saw the man. Nothing. As if he just vanished in the cool autumn air. I looked to my left and then my right. Nothing. There's no way he could have ran up either end out of sight in that short amount of time. My condo was in the middle of the long mainstreets stretch. I stood there in silence. The twinkling of water fountains only heightened the strange sensation running down my spine. Something seemed off, yet I couldn't put my finger on it. I shook off the paranoid feelings, telling myself that there was probably some harmless explanation for the mysterious man's disappearance. Nevertheless, a sense of nauseous anxiety continued to simmer within me as I started to walk, venturing further into the heart of the city.
It didn't take me long, but I made it to town. Bars and restaurants filled with lively patrons were scattered across the street. Smells wafted from different eateries-fried fish, burgers smothered in sauce, steaks grilled to perfection. Music blared from various establishments, adding to the festive ambiance. Couples walked hand in hand, laughter echoing against the brick facades. People milling about in their diverse array of styles and colors, contributing to the multicultural essence of the French Quarter.
Street performers showcased their talents alongside locals and tourists alike, painting the landscape with music and laughter. Without hesitation, I stepped into a crowded bar, absorbing the energetic atmosphere. Southern rock played softly in the background, while raucous cheers reverberated throughout the establishment. Laughter and the buzz of excited conversations added to the electrifying environment. Tables were adorned with colorful glasses, candles casting a warm golden glow upon the crowd. Men wore casual button-down shirts, jeans, and boots. Women sported stylish tank tops paired with flowing skirts, bohemian earrings, and bright lipstick.
A few hours had past. And I managed to visit most of the bars on the streets lively strip. The night sky was clear now, only stars and moon light illuminating the narrow passageways and alleys where people milled around. The aroma of hot food and spices coming from small kiosks and stands intermingled with the rich scent of alcohol wafting from the numerous bars and clubs. It didn't matter how late it had gotten, loud music reverberated, bass lines still thudding against the buildings as people danced together, their feet rhythmically striking the floorboards beneath them. As I sipped my colourful drink from a bubble tea cart, I heard a groggy voice behind me.
"Excuse me miss," I turned to see a gentleman approached me, his friends following suit. Looking like he had one too many drinks already. The man appeared to be older than me, mid to late thirties maybe. The smell of alcohol reached my face, I swallowed down my gag in response. Fucking foul. "You look a little lonely" he started "mind if we join you" he raises his brow and shines his teeth, yellowed from cigarette usage.
I hesistate a reply just as a strange movement plays in my peripheral. "Um-" I begin, glancing over instinctively. What I see strikes even more anxiety into me. Through the crowd, off into the distance, that same dark shadowed man stood further down the street. Watching me yet again. My heart drops. This time the light shines over his features. But only just. He looks pissed, staring at the men. Once he notices me staring back, our eyes lock together. Did he fucking follow me? No he couldn't have, he disappeared after I locked my gate. It was probably just a coincidence. But the fact remained. There he was, standing in the distance once again, watching me. Once his gaze directly met with mine it sent chills rippling through my body. My thoughts raced wildly.
The drunk man glanced over towards the crowd of people, as if to see what I was staring at. After seemingly seeing nothing out of the ordinary, he glances back to me. "Er-hem" his murmer breaks my thought. I stare back to him "sorry- I'm alright thank you". His eyes dropped at my reply, obviously agitated. Yet he forces a smile anyway "another time". His smile doesn't meet his eyes, giving him a sinister look. I nod, drink in hand I turn to walk away, I feel the drunk mans eyes feast on my ass. I sigh, digusted by the encounter. But not before giving the street another glance, seeing that he's dissapeard again.
Just like he did earlier outside my building. I glance around frantically, hoping he hasn't gotten closer to me in some way. I feel like prey being stalked by a primal hunter. The thought sickens me and twists my insides with anxiety. Despite being surrounded by people. I couldn't help feeling isolated amidst the revelry. Intrigued and frightened by the peculiar stranger that followed me. Who could possibly want to watch someone they don't know? With such unnerving intent?
Shaking these doubts aside, I tried focusing on enjoying my first weekend in New Orleans. Embracing the city's charm and culture, indulging in its unique flavours and experiences. Drowning my unease in the excitement and liveliness around me. But despite that, an eerie feeling still loomed over me. And so, I continue walking along the boulevards. Each step taken, the weight of those haunting eyes becomes heavier. The faint sound of saxophones lingers in the air, filling spaces in between conversation.
Intoxicated men and women share stories of love lost and found, their voices rising above the melody, mixing with it seamlessly. Street artists paint pictures of jazz musicians, brush strokes quickening with each beat. Bands of all sizes play songs dedicated to New Orleans' legendary history. All the while, the persistent whispers of uncertainty fill my ears.
Those eyes flashing continuously in my mind. The image of his figure standing there haunting my thoughts. His features hidden under the darkness of the night, I've only seen his eyes, yet somehow they left a lasting impression. I wondered why would he persistently trail me. It felt personal, almost predatory. Was he just some random creeper? Or something else entirely? Regardless, the situation gave me chills. Maybe he knew something about me...or perhaps he believed there was something valuable in my possession, though, considering my limited belongings, it wasn't likely.
Then I remembered the strange events in my apartment earlier. The photo, the difuser turning on by itself. No that's a step too far, my security systems have been in place since before I moved in. He couldn't have broken in. Especially without setting off the alarms. So much for feeling safe in my own home. The prospect of living alone in an unfamiliar city grew increasingly terrifying. On top of that, the notion of being tailed became harder to ignore. I just can't get the image of him out of my head.
Every part of my body feels hyperaware, my skin crawls, every breath comes heavy with apprehension. Why does he want to follow me? Why do I fear him? Could I simply be imagining things due to stress and exhaustion after moving cities? But no, the memory of his intense gaze keeps flashing up. His eyes were ice blue, deep set, dark, piercing, full of an enigmatic intensity. Like they could see straight through me, understand everything about me. That eratic thought sends a shiver down my spine. Even though he hadn't approached me himself, the mere idea of him stalking me felt invasive and disturbing. Unsettling.
A little while of walking passed once more, an older woman called out to me from her small food truck. Nestled quietly by the trees "New here?" she asked sweetly as I approached. I nodded, trying to hide my worries and maintain composure. She offered a bowl of what looked like a stew. It smelled heavenly. "My special gumbo" she smiled sweetly at me. Her weathered hands held the steamy gumbo carefully, transferring it to me delicately. "This'll help warm you up dear" She laughed cheerfully, a hint of Southern drawl accentuating her words. I took it thankfully, reaching into my purse for my wallet, her soft hand held mine. "Oh don't you worry about that" I returned her kindness with a grateful smile.
"We ladies need to stick together!" We shared a brief laughter. "So, tell me, whats your name? where are you from?" She asked, looking to strike up a friendly connection. "My name's Lyla, and I'm from virginia." I replied sheepishly, "It's nice here, different from home." I said halfheartedly, remembering my old life and how quickly it slipped away. "I used to come here as a child, so it's nice to be back, though I dont remember much" I admitted, sipping my steaming gumbo appreciatively. It was warm, comforting, and bursting with flavour. Sweet, tangy, savoury.
She grinned approvingly, nodding slowly. Just as I swallowed the last bite of my gumbo, the energy changed slightly. She glanced behind me her expression changing momentarily. She then nodded at me "You're a special girl Lyla" she stated cryptically, causing confusion to rise inside me. What does she mean by 'special'? Before I could question her, she began closing up her small food truck for the night. A small rush in her mannerisms. "He wants you to stay aware. Keep your guard up." These words echoed in her tone. Confusion spread across my face, wondering why she decided to offer this advice.
Her worn hands folded neatly in front of her, eyes fixated on mine. "Your safety should always be priority number one. Trust your gut." These simple yet profound statements left me speechless. Perhaps she sensed my discomfort. Maybe it's because I am vulnerable right now. And who is 'he'. God? Is this lady insanely religious or just plain old insane. Throughout my confusion I could only muster two words "I'm sorry?". The elderly lady shook her head slightly, a saddened smile playing upon her lips. "There's much going on, darlin', beyond what meets the eye. It ain't natural. You take care of yourself now, you hear?" She spoke kindly, waving goodbye as she entered her food truck and pulled it closed.
As I stood there, now alone still holding onto my now empty bowl, the world seemed to move slower around me. A loud whistling stung my ears, I looked to my side to see the men from earlier drinking outside a bar, "fancy seeing you again baby". My expression stiffened as they wooed and cat called me. They were obviously more drunk now. Their laughter rang louder, making me cringe involuntarily. Unable to avoid their advancements, I started toward a side street. The alcohol had clearly made them less inhibited as they stumbled up and walked in my direction, emboldened by the bravado of their numbers. One guy grabbed my arm, forcing me to stop. They giggled among themselves, their hands roaming dangerously close to sensitive areas. Panicked, I fought against them desperately, pushing against their grasp. Their laughter intensified.
I jolted my arm away, kicking the mans shin harshly. A pained groan escaped him as he retreated a few paces backward. Surprised by my swift retaliation, his friends hesitated briefly. This unexpected resistance seemed to fuel their bloodlust even further. Feeling trapped, adrenaline coursed through my veins, my heart raced faster than ever. A cold wave of terror consumed me. Frantic, I ran for the side street I had seen earlier. I ran through, venues buzzing around me as I made my way through the crowds. This was not how I fucking planned my evening would go.
I should have just fucking stayed home tonight. But then again, I don't even know if I'd feel safe at home. Even with the security system in place. Now I'm kind of wishing that dark man was watching, maybe he had good intentions, maybe he would protect me from harm. No don't be insane Lyla, panic has me thinking irrationaly. Adrenaline fueled my strides as I bolted down the streets, weaving through busy pedestrians, seeking refuge amongst the chaos. People passing by appeared oblivious to my predicament, absorbed in their own lives. How easy it was for others to live in ignorance. My thoughts kept racing back to the mysterious stranger, his intentions uncertain. Did he truly want to cause harm? Had he seen my struggle? If so, why did he remain silent, letting me fight my battles alone?
I spot another bar, this one slightly hidden by the corner of a building. Desperate for any form of relief, I dash towards it. I took a sharp deep breath, clutching my purse with my shaking hands as I stepped into the dimly lit underground bar, my feet aching from hours spent walking around town trying to lose the unwanted attention from low life thugs on the streets.
As soon as I entered, I could feel the oppressive weight of the place pressing down on me, only adding to my unease. It felt like everyone was fucking watching me whether they actually were or not didn't matter; it felt real enough to see. Each shadow seemed to house a different sinister secret waiting to be revealed. Just the thought alone sent a shiver down my spine. To distract myself from these imaginings, I ordered a strong drink, something that would help me forget about all the stress of moving along with all the other shit I've had to deal with tonight, even if just for a moment. Hoping they wouldn't come looking for me in here.
As I leaned against the dark wooden counter, sipping my drink and mentally steeling myself, a gentle melody filled the air. The sound coming from a piano located near the entrance, accompanied by the occasional humming voice. Musician sat silhouetted against the faint light emitted from candlelight, fingers dancing effortlessly over the keys creating a mesmerizing symphony. Inhaling deeply, the scents of whiskey, cigarette smoke, and fresh food permeate the space, adding to its alluring charm. Inside the dim lit room, the faces illuminated by the soft glow of fireplace cast eerie reflections onto the walls.
I sighed deeply. Sitting myself down at a small bar table near the back. Still shaken from my encounter, I tried to regain control of my nerves. I run my hand through my long silver hair, feeling calmer with the warm brush against my scalp. Sipping the remainder of my cocktail, I listened intently to the haunting music played. The tender melodies seemingly soothing my soul. My mind couldn't resist wandering off to the shadowed Was he really hiding something beneath those piercing blue eyes? Or perhaps he was merely observing, waiting for the opportune time to intervene.
Even amidst the lingering tensions, the music continued to fill the air, providing solace amidst the unfamiliar surroundings. Strangers became acquaintances in the shared rhythm, their voices carried along the waves of melody. I was somwhat at peace until I glanced up. My eyes caught sight of him. The man I had seen stalking me.
His stoney gaze swept the room, unaware of my presence, unaware that I was now the one watching him. Waves of anxiety rolling throughout me. Despite feeling unnerved, I noticed how immaculately dressed he was now that he was in the light, his jacket showing off his toned physique beneath it. His thick, luxuriously dark hair framed his handsome face under his hood, with ice blue eyes that seemed to penetrate right through everyone. The warm lighting seemed to hit his features at their best angles. His aura striking the room on its own, paired with everything else made his presence daunting at best.
I looked away as his gaze met my direction, hoping to fuck he wouldn't see me. Focusing instead on finishing my shitty drink. I hated the taste of alcohol, I only drank it for the feeling. The buzz that helped soothe me. But as I did so, the image of his powerful frame loomed larger than life in my mind. With each sip of my now half empty glass, a part of me wished I had just gone straight home to the apartment. "Well we meet again" a sickeningly familiar voice called out from behind, startling me from my reverie. Turning around, I came face to face with the group of menacing men harrassing me earlier, led by the bulky individual. Fuck, how did I not see them come in? It seemed they were eager to finish what they started. I sucked up trying to deter them "well I'm saying bye again." I gulped the last of my drink, holding back a retch and placed it on the table I was sat at with a loud clank, collecting my things getting ready to leave I lowered my foot from my barstool readying myself to dash off.
The man grabs my shoulder stopping me, "aw but we just wanna hangout with you dollface, don't be so rude to some guys willing to spend their time with you" My stomach churned at his misogynist words. I glared up at him slapping his hand away as I stood up "fuck off, I'm too tired for this" I really was, today was exhausting. And I wanted nothing more than to just go back to bed at this point. The mans expression then turned from lustful to one of anger and fucking hatred "you'll regret that you filthy slut". Feeling trapped, I scanned the room desperately seeking help, when suddenly, the dark man emerged from the crowd, placing himself between me and the threatening men with a calm confidence that instilled relief along with some nervousness within me. What the hell. "What do you think you're doing?" he spoke, his tone commanding immediate obedience. The men shifted nervously, clearly surprised by the authority coming in at such an unexpected time. I was to if I'm honest. Lets just say he wasn't exactly unattractive.
"We just wanted to hangout with her," the leader mumbled, his words barely audible amidst the loud hum of conversation surrounding us. The corner of his mouth curled into a subtle smirk. "Well, you got your chance, but it seems she's heading off now so leave her be" He gestured dismissively toward me, keeping his eye on the men. The security guard looked in our direction, causing the group to retreat slowly yet more hurried than it had been upon their arrival. Watching them leave, I let out a shaky breath, my body still trembling from adrenaline.
"Thank you," I whispered gratefully to him, my eyes darting nervously away, still afraid. How could I not be, he's a creep. He arched an eyebrow, curious about my nervousness. Enough for me to notice in the corner of my eye as I stared hard at the wooden floor. Before I could embarrass myself further however, the bartender approached us, seemingly knowing him quite well. "Eden," he began, greeting him with respect. "I heard some commotion. Everything alright now?"
He nodded reassuringly, acknowledging the concern. "Don't worry about it, its nothing serious" he replied smoothly, maintaining his confident stance. He then turned to me, his piercing blue eyes searching mine intensely. It felt odd having someone look at me with such raw intensity, almost as though he could see straight through my soul. What's with this guy and staring. My insides squirmed slightly under the scrutiny. The bartender nodded in understanding, looking between Eden and myself with concern. After a few moments, he excused himself to attend to other matters, leaving me alone with him once more. I hesitated, unsure of what to say or do next. Feeling vulnerable and exposed, I found myself drawn to him despite my better judgment.
"Are you alright?" he asked gently, his voice resonating with genuine care. Torn between fear and fascination, I managed a weak nod, unable to meet his gaze. Clutching my purse I had set down on the table, I looked down at my watch noticing the late time. "I should probably head home now," I said softly, my voice breaking the silence between us. He studied me for a moment, his expression unreadable eventually giving me a nod. "Stay safe," he said, I found it strange he could say such a soft phrase with such commanded, his voice low and authoritative. Surely he'd try following me again.
Swallowing hard, I nodded in agreement "I will", I felt as though he might fucking kill me if I didn't. He was probably going to follow me just to make sure I obeyed him. I wouldn't doubt it. Without further delay, I made my way through the crowd, weaving past tables and patrons until I reached the exit. Outside, the cool night air greeted me, offering a brief respite from the suffocating atmosphere of the bar. Taking a deep breath, I started walking briskly down the street towards my condo, determined to put distance between myself and the bar. As I walked, I couldn't help but think about him, by him I mean Eden. So the creep has a name, there was something undeniably magnetic about him, and I couldn't quite understand why. Maybe it was the overwhelming air of confidence he carried, or perhaps it was the darkness hiding behind his intense gaze. Whatever it was, I found myself intrigued and in deep thought.
Just as I rounded the corner onto a deserted side street, I saw them. The same group of men from earlier, lurking ominously in the shadows, their conversation and laughs echoed through the alleyway. Their eyes locked onto me, and I knew instantly that they recognized me. Shit. God fucking why do I keep getting involved with these assholes. Panic surged through my veins as I realized there was no escaping them this time. I was on my own with no defenses, just the spiking anxiety in my stomach reaching up to leave a bitter taste in my mouth. Before I could turn away, one of the men stepped forward, his menacing smile revealing crooked teeth. "So, little lady, you decided to run away from your friend, huh? Well, guess what? We've been waiting for you, and we haven't stopped thinking about you."
My heart pounded in my chest as I struggled to find my voice, that spike now on the tip of my tongue. "Please, I just want to go home, I've had a hard day". The man laughed cruelly, reaching out to grab my arm. "Baby your day isn't the only thing hard right now, I bet I can make it better" He clenches my arm hard, pulling me up against his stiffened groin, causing me to cry out. The sound of my sobs echoed in the eery alleyway. Without warning, Eden appeared before us, his eyes blazing with anger. God, so he did follow me. Though I'm kind of greatful this time. "What did I say," he commanded firmly, his voice ringing through the empty air. The rasp in his tone was unmistakable. The group leader, emboldened by his companions, refused to comply. "This isn't any of your business" he sneered, attempting to assert dominance. Undeterred, Eden took a step closer, his presence towering over them. "You misunderstood, this is most certainly my fucking business." The tension in the air grew heavier with each passing second. Seeing the flame in his eyes, the others slowly backed away, sensing the danger they were in.
The 'leader', however, remained defiant. Taking an aggressive step forward lunging towards Eden with intent to harm, while doing so he threw me hard against the brick wall behind him, standing inbetween me and Eden. I dramatically exhaled as the wind was knocked out of me. Falling to the pavement I held myself into a ball. Pain sweeping my body making me seethe. In a swift motion, Eden grabbed the man by his neck, lifting him effortlessly off the ground. His feet dangled helplessly above the pavement, his now purple face contorted with rage and fear. "You will never touch her again," he seethed, his voice laced with venomous fury. The man's eyes widened in terror as he grunted trying to inhale, realizing the gravity of the situation. As his windpipe was crushed, the sounds of cracking cartilage echoed against the brick walls within the alley, the rest of the group scattered, fleeing into the night like rats abandoning a sinking ship. He released the man just as he began to fade, letting him crash painfully onto the concrete below. Holy shit. My expression remained in one of fear. Speechless.
The man coughed violently, blood trickling from his trembling lips as he clutched his throbbing neck. Glancing upwards, the defeated man groaned, his hollowing gasps echoing from his now collapsed windpipe. Eden withdrawed a loaded pistol from his jacket pocket. I sat up, trembling in fear, both from the man laying on the ground and my stalker.. now 'saviour' with a fucking gun. About to murder somebody right in front of me. The man stumbled backwards trying to escape his impending death. His fellow men, disappeared into the shadows, abandoning him as if he was nothing to them. Valuing their lives over their so called leader. Once they were gone, Eden lowered his weapon "Follow them". I leaned against the wall, unsure if my relief was from Eden lowering his weapon or my attackers running away. The man got up running to follow his friends. Leaving us standing in the alley alone.
Once they were gone, he turned to me, his eyes filled with concern. Reaching out, he knelt on to the dirty ground, offering me a reassuring grasp on my shoulder. "It's okay," he murmured, his voice conveying a mix of comfort and protection. Embarrassment and gratitude warred within me, my skin crawling under his gentle touch. Unable to verbalize my thanks or confusion, I simply nodded. He stood vigilantly helping me up, being careful not to injure me further, ensuring our safety from any potential threats lingering nearby.
I found myself wondering how such a supposedly dangerous man could also be so gallant and protective. His actions tonight spoke volumes about his character, proving that appearances can be deceiving. "Thank you," I finally managed to express my gratitude. Though I wanted to say 'what's with you and following me?' 'why do you have a gun?' I feel like I've said my thanks a thousand times today. He nodded, his expression remaining impenetrable. There was a certain edge to his demeanor, one that conveyed control and power, he lowered his head down to meet me. His frame enormous compared to my 5 foot nothing ass. "Whats your name love?". I glanced up at him trying not to be rude "Delilah, but everyone calls me L- Lyla for short". I stumbled on my words out of nerves, idiot, shutup.
"Well Lyla, I dont think you should be wandering around this part of town on your own, especially this late". I noticed a gentleness beneath his exterior. An intriguing dichotomy existed within him that evoked both curiosity and fear. How could someone who possessed such an imposing presence also possess such compassion and kindness? "I dont exactly have a car, I usually walk this late, back at home anyway" I muttered. He glanced down at me "Allow me to take you home, it's not safe for you out here". Despite my bewilderment, I soon became aware of a strange longing growing within me. There was something enthralling about him, an irresistible pull that drew me deeper into his world. Perhaps it was his mysterious nature, or maybe it was the thrill of being protected by someone so powerful. Whatever it was, it had a cryptic unease alongside it.
I found myself agreeing to his suggestion without much thought. "Okay, I guess it is really late" I uttered quietly, my voice betraying a mixture of apprehension and.. trust? The fucker already knew where I lived, and no doubt he wouldnt just follow me back anyway if I declined. He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Good," he responded, his voice full of assurance. "Come, I'll take you back to my place."
I paused for a moment. "Oh, I was thinking mine". He glanced at me knowingly "Do you really want to be alone right now?". He was right, I was definitely afraid to be alone right now. What if the men knew where I lived? I shook my head agreeing with him silently. My heart racing with a firey trepidation. I couldn't deny the allure and protection of spending time with him, but I also couldn't ignore the risks involved. What if his offer wasn't purely altruistic? Would I be putting myself in danger by accepting his invitation? What are you doing Lyla. You don't even know this man. And he has a fucking gun. Yes I was afraid to be alone right now, but especially with Eden. I need to go home.