Abandoned Tracks

Chapter Nine: The Stranger in Black

The morning sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow through the thin curtains of Alex's bedroom. Mark, who had slept on the makeshift bed, stirred first. He yawned and stretched, rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he sat up. The sight that greeted him made him pause. Alex was lying on the bed, facing Ethan, who was still wrapped snugly in a blanket with only his face visible.

Mark blinked, confused. "Morning, Alex," he said, his voice thick with sleep. "Why are you talking to yourself so early in the morning?"

Alex looked over at Mark, then back at Ethan. "Just getting my thoughts together for the day," he said, trying to sound nonchalant. He glanced back at Ethan, who remained still, his breathing soft and steady.

Mark shook his head, still puzzled but too tired to question further. "Whatever you say, man," he muttered as he got up and headed to the bathroom.

After washing up, the three of them-Alex, Mark, and the unseen Ethan-gathered in the kitchen. Alex prepared a hearty breakfast, making sure to include enough food for everyone. Ethan stayed out of Mark's sight, silently observing the interaction between the two friends.

Mark dug into his food with enthusiasm. "This is really good, Alex. You've become quite the cook."

"Thanks, Mark. Living alone has its perks. You learn to take care of yourself," Alex replied, a hint of pride in his voice. He glanced at Ethan, who was watching them with a soft smile.

They talked about their lives, sharing stories and reminiscing about their college days. Mark talked about his job, the challenges he faced, and his plans for the future. Alex listened intently, occasionally glancing at Ethan, who seemed content just being there, silently supporting him.

"So, what brought you to this place, Alex?" Mark asked, his curiosity evident. "It's pretty remote."

Alex paused, thinking carefully before answering. "I needed a change. After my grandmother passed, staying in the city felt... stifling. This place offers peace and quiet."

Mark nodded, understanding. "I get that. Sometimes a change of scenery is exactly what you need."

As breakfast came to an end, Mark stood up, stretching. "Well, I should get going. Thanks for the hospitality, Alex."

"Anytime, Mark. It was great seeing you," Alex said, walking him to the door. "Take care and keep in touch."

"You too," Mark replied, stepping outside. They exchanged a brief hug before Mark turned and headed to his car.

Alex closed the door and turned around, only to find Ethan standing directly behind him. Startled, he stumbled, losing his balance. Ethan's reflexes were quick; he reached out, grabbing Alex by the waist to steady him. Their faces were inches apart, and Alex could feel the warmth of Ethan's breath on his skin.

"Careful," Ethan murmured, his voice low and gentle. His hands lingered on Alex's waist, creating a tingling sensation that sent a shiver down Alex's spine.

Alex's ears turned a deep shade of red, and he felt a blush creeping up his cheeks. "Th-thanks," he stammered, his eyes locking with Ethan's. For a moment, the world seemed to shrink, and it was just the two of them, lost in each other's gaze.

Ethan's face flushed slightly, a soft smile playing on his lips. "No problem," he said, slowly releasing his grip on Alex.

Alex took a step back, trying to compose himself. "You should wash up first," he said, his voice a little shaky.

Ethan nodded and headed to the bathroom. As Alex started tidying up the kitchen, he heard a knock at the door. Thinking Mark had forgotten something, he went to answer it.

To his surprise, a man he had never seen before stood there. He was dressed entirely in black, with a well-built frame and tanned skin. His eyes were a piercing blue, and there was an aura about him that seemed almost otherworldly.

"Hello," the man said, his voice deep and resonant. "I was wondering if you could help me. I'm looking for an address."

Alex blinked, momentarily disoriented. When their eyes met, he felt a strange sensation, as if he had been transported back in time to the 1970s. The man's presence was both intriguing and unsettling.

"Uh, sure," Alex replied, trying to shake off the feeling. "What address are you looking for?"

The man handed Alex a piece of paper with an address written on it. "Do you know where this is?"

Alex looked at the paper, trying to focus. The address seemed familiar, but he couldn't quite place it. "I think it's somewhere nearby. Let me check."

As Alex turned to look for a map, he made eye contact with the man again. The sensation intensified, and the world around him seemed to blur and shift. The modern-day surroundings faded away, replaced by an older, vintage atmosphere. He felt a dizzying sensation as if he was being pulled back in time, to a different era.