Broken Pieces: A Punisher Fanfiction

First Time Meeting

Chapter 1

"Alright, let me show you the inside," said the land lady as she proceeded to unlock the door.

The hallway looked a bit dingy but it was expected since this was the cheapest place I could find on Craigslist. Given how the hallway appeared, I hoped that the inside looked better than what was outside. As soon as the door was opened, I followed the lady inside my-would-be new home. For now, at least.

Much to my relief, the apartment was already pre-furnished so I wouldn't have to worry about buying a lot of furniture. There was already a sofa and wooden coffee table in the living room along with an old TV.

"There's no cable allowed in this building," the lady spoke suddenly when I glanced over at the TV. "Those cable dishes, not sure what you call them, you know what I mean," I nodded, "Well, they get in the way. Besides, it gets expensive and all the other tenants seem to be content with watching the basic channels. The only thing you need is the news."

"Okay," I nodded right away. "I don't really watch TV so you have nothing to worry about, ma'am."

"Good," she said, then decided to change the subject. "Feel free to look around some more."

I nodded and decided to look around some more. The kitchen was located to the right of the entrance next to the living room. It had a small stove and a counter for prepping right next to it. There was no room for a dining table so I would have to resort to eating in the living room or at the counter, possibly setting some bar stools nearby. But then, I doubt I would be using the kitchen all that much except to use the microwave or make some instant noodles.

Next, there was a bathroom located right next to the bedroom and inside the room was a full sized bed. I sighed in relief one again knowing that I wouldn't have to spend a lot on purchasing a new bed. I lucked out big time.

When I went back into the living room, I belatedly noticed a corner behind the sofa. Next to the window was a small desk with a lamp. It was the perfect spot to set up a work station. I could plug in my laptop and type away. And I liked that it was right next to the window. There was something about being near windows that helped me focused better when it came to writing.

Beaming, I turned back around and faced the land lady. "I'll take it," I said with a grin.

Her lips curled into a satisfied grin. "Alright," she nodded. "Let's head back down and get the paperwork going. I am going to need a deposit today."

"That's fine," I said, proceeding to follow her out the door.

As soon as we were out into the hallway, a man was out in the hallway opening the door to the apartment across the way. His back was turned so I was unable to get a look at his face. He was wearing a thick black jacket along with dark jeans, and black boots.

"Oh, hello, Frank," the land lady greeted him.

His head shot up and he glanced over his shoulder slightly. "Hey, Pam, how're you doing?" he responded.

"Fantastic," the land lady named Pam, replied. I wasn't quite sure if her tone was serious or if it was sarcasm. "I'm just showing this young lady around," she motioned towards me. "Meet your new neighbor, Frank. This is—I'm sorry, what was your name again, sweetie?"

When he finally turned around to face the both of us, I was taken by his appearance. He had short dark hair, sort of like a buzz cut. His eyes were dark and intense and he appeared as if he never smiled. He was well built, and seemed like the strong and protective type. But something about him was off-putting and from what I'm getting from him, he had a gruff demeanor. Clearly, the man standing before me was someone I would not want to upset or anger in any way.

I convinced myself that if I do not want to get on his bad side then I should be as friendly and neighborly as possible, especially since I will be residing across the hallway from this man. Realizing that the both of them were looking at me expectantly, I finally spoke up. "Hello," I said, clearing my throat then extending my hand. "My name is Lauren. Nice to meet you."

"Frank," he said, shaking my hand. His grip on my hand was firm.

"Alright, we gotta get Lauren's paperwork going before I can get her moved in," Pam said suddenly, breaking the loud silence in the empty hallway.

"I'll see you around, Frank," I said, proceeding to follow Pam down the hall.

He gave a nod and finally entered his apartment, shutting the door behind him.

Once inside the elevator at the end of the hall, Pam turned to me. "And that would be Frank," she said, pressing the button leading to the bottom floor. "He's the only other tenant on this floor." She continued. "He's a war veteran. Served in Afghanistan and Iraq as far as I know." That explains his haircut, I thought, nodding to ensure her that I was listening. "Anyways, he's a very quiet man. Doesn't smile and doesn't socialize with anyone, just the occasional hello every now and then. He rarely leaves the apartment unless it's to step out for a bit. Poor young man," she sighed, her tone grew solemn, "It must be very lonely for him."

I could only nod in return.