Spiderman From the Ashes : Volume One

Chapter Two - Do You Live Nearby?

Just then, Vicky, with her headphones in her ears, walks past Arisu. "Hey," she says, "are you the new occupant in the apartment next door?" 
"Um, just passing through." she gasped, avoiding eye contact. "Are you that chick from the pizzeria?"

"Sure." Vicky replied, her smile widening. "I'm heading back now. Would you like to come up for a coffee?" She felt a flutter of nervousness herself; after all, this girl had been the only one who had spoken to her during the day, even if it was just a brief encounter at work.

"But I have to... okay, fine." she stammered, feeling awkward. She stepped into Vicky's apartment, hoping for a chance to talk. No one had been kind to her in a while, especially after the incident that had occurred. People carried a bitter stigma.

They both ascended to the 4th floor, and when Vicky opened the door, she gestured for Arisu to enter. Arisu stepped inside and placed her belongings in the room.

"Please, have a seat," Vicky said with a warm smile. "I'll...prepare some coffee...for you. Make yourself at home."

Arisu stepped into the apartment and carefully placed her backpack on an armchair. She then sat down, crossing her legs. Taking her time, she meticulously observed every detail of the house, a habit she had developed to be efficient.

Vicky prepared the coffee and some cookies, arranging them neatly on a tray. She added a cup of tea for herself and carried the tray over to the table. Setting it down gently, she picked up her own tea.

"Sorry about the mess," Vicky said, gesturing around the apartment. "We're moving out."

Arisu accepted the iced coffee no hesitation nonetheless. "No problem," Vicky replied. "By the way, welcome to fucking Detroit." She took another sip of her own beverage.

"Thanks," Arisu replied, her voice tinged with disappointment. "I never imagined that the people in this town would be so... I don't know... self-centered." Her gaze locked onto Vicky's crimson eyes, revealing a mix of emotions—disappointment, sadness, and perhaps a touch of surprise.

It's not easy when expectations clash with reality, especially in a new city. Arisu's observation highlights the challenge of adjusting to a different environment. Perhaps she'll find unexpected connections or moments like this as she settles into Detroit.

"There are good people too—individuals who... really want to help and ensure safety for everyone. Take my aunt, for instance. She actively assists people in need through a group called F.E.A.S.T."

Vicky smiled at the comment and finished her beverage, then carried the empty cup back to the kitchen sink.

After finishing the dishes, Vicky retrieved her notebook to tackle her homework. As she switched on a small speaker, old rock music filled the room, providing a backdrop to keep her mind engaged.

As the music played on, the woman sat in silence, her gaze sweeping across the room. Vicky's house was cluttered with cardboard boxes labeled 'Vicky's Stuff.' The kitchen bore signs of recent activity, and narrow, empty corridors led to rooms devoid of beds. Still, she remained quiet, fixated on the small birds alighting outside the window.

"Is everything okay?" A sweet voice snapped Arisu out of looking at the window.She turns her head to stutter her words.

"Yes, yes it is."

"Got it" the younger woman replied, as she hears a creak on the door that opens, revealing a tall short-bearded man with a officer uniform. The man enters the apartment feeling content.

"Vicky, I'm home," says the man, looking around. "Who is your friend?"

"Uhhh, nobody. Sorry I was already leaving." she said, forcing a short smile as she sullenly left the apartment without finishing her tea.

Arisu closed the door and got back at the apartament.