Chapter 1

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ERIS

Cadieux, I didn't choose to be born with such a complicated name. Let alone have a challenging life.
Funny right? The same people who brought you to this world, who planned out your life before you're even born, abandon you as if you are a waste. Story of my life.
Every day as I watch people go by through my window, I wonder how life has treated them. What events do they have going on? Are they as happy as they portray to be?
No one wants to be alone, and because of that, many of them pretend to be someone they aren't. To feel accepted in society. Out of everyone in the crowd, one stood out of the crowd like a sore thumb. I don't know his name, but he does the same routine every morning. He steps out, stretches, leaves for about half an hour, and returns to the building in front of mine. I'm not a stalker, just an observer.
As soon as I finished my coffee, I began my morning routine. The same tiresome thing I've done for years. I ensured all the lights were off and stepped out, joining the morning rush crowd.
I worked in a small coffee shop down the street. It wasn't the most promising job, but it was enough to pay my bills.
"I thought you weren't coming in today?" Stacy asked as I made my way around the counter.
"Greg asked me to come in," I shrugged, and she sighed.
"You know you don't have to listen to him all the time, right?"
"Actually, yes, I do; he is our boss,"
"The only reason he called you was because he was too lazy to call anyone else. He knew you would come in without hesitating."
"He's right. The more hours, the better,"
Our shifts were always the same. The regular customers were coming in. The rest of the day went by without problems. It was a busy coffee shop, but we knew how to keep it in control.
Closing time couldn't have come sooner. We were counting our tips when there was a knock on the door.
"Does this guy not see the closed sign? I'll tell him," She took off her apron and went to the door.
I can hear her discussing with the customer. When I finished counting the money, I separated it and turned around.
"You're lucky we have a little left. I'll have it ready for you in a minute," Stacy went behind the counter and made a face at me.
"Dude, did you not see the closed sign?" I asked. Stacy shot me a warning look, and I ignored her.
"Like I told your colleague, you were the only coffee shop close by with the lights still on. I didn't see the sign until I was at the door. I wanted to give it a try, and I even agreed to give you a generous tip,"
His voice was low. He was dressed from head to toe in dark clothes. I couldn't see his face very well because of the hoody he had on. I don't know how Stacy let this man in. He looked like a murderer. I finished cleaning up and let her give him his order. Before he stepped out, he turned to look at me and walked out. She quickly locked the door and squealed.
"Why are you so excited? I mean, did you see this guy? For all we know, he could've killed us."
She handed me a hundred-dollar bill and pointed at it.
"That's why. Where else could we have gotten that big of a tip?"
She walked away, and I scoffed.
"It could be dirty money,"
"Stop complaining and enjoy it,"
"Who the hell is crazy enough to pay two hundred dollars for coffee?" I mumbled to myself.
"Time to close up. Let's go!"
Once I got to my apartment, I took off my pants and bra and lay on the couch. Best feeling ever. I quickly got up to get a snack before turning on the t.v. As much as I love Stacy, I prefer being in my own space. I'm not going to lie; it does get lonely. With time I got used to coming home to a cold and empty apartment.
I don't go out, and I don't have many friends. One time Stacy invited me out with hers, and it was awkward. I've always told myself it was better to be alone than be friends with people who will let you down or abandon you.

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