Loving Eros

Chapter 2

 Story yawned, pouring herself some coffee. She was still exhausted after last night. Grey had walked her home, but he made sure there was never a silent moment, pointing out certain restaurants and other necessary places to know. It was actually pretty nice, from her perspective. She did enjoy her apartment. It was homey, calming, and had everything she needed. Araceli called her late last night and told her to take today off to get herself settled and comfortable with the town or city. At this time of day, she really just wanted to laze around. Story wasn't exactly the 'adventurous' type, but she would definitely poke around a little bit later. She sat down on her couch and sipped some of her coffee, letting out a content sigh. "Peace and quiet... Such a lovely sound."

 Of course, after she said that, there was a knock at her door. The only one who knew exactly where she lived was Grey, so she figured it might be him and got up to go answer the door. However, when she pulled the door open, she found herself looking at a man she'd never seen before.

Scruffy brown hair, blazing brown eyes- but the most noticeable thing Story noticed about this man was his attire. She didn't dare say anything, but if she didn't know better, she would've thought she was staring at a member of the mafia taken straight from a movie. Something about it seemed like he was really from the nineteen twenties. Of course, it was just old fashioned, but it had an eerie similarity. The grin on his face made him appear non-threatening, so she figured it was safe to keep the door open rather than close it on him. She smiled.

 "Ah, good morning. Can I help you, sir?"

 "Ya' can, actually." The man chuckled, lifting his fedora off his head, bowing it slightly. "The name's Benjamin, Benjamin Russo. I noticed you movin' in yesterday and thought I'd introduce myself."

 "Oh! Well, lovely to meet you. I'm Story, Story Henrick." She grinned. What a sociable man, she thought.

"Snazzy to meet you too!" He rested his fedora against his chest. "Say, I haven't actually seen you around here before. Pretty small town, so I've seen about everyone. You come outta hidin' or something?" He chuckled.

Story laughed. "No, no. I just moved here yesterday."

Benjamin leaned forward a little with a look of awe on his face. "Ah, really? You don't say! We don't really get many people movin' in. Not in a few years, actually! Well, welcome to Sheldon City. You need help with anythin', you let me know. I've been here since before I was born." He grinned.

"Ah, how kind of you." Story rubbed her neck. "I was actually gonna walk around a little bit later and just kinda get familiar with the area."

"Heh, not much area or attractions to explore. Tell ya' what, I'd be glad to be a tour guide for ya'! I know a real good cafe not too far down the street." Benjamin dusted off his fedora and placed it back on his head. "When's a good time?"

"Oh, I can go right now! Hold on." Story ran back inside and grabbed her purse and locking the door on her way out. Best to keep Araceli's advice in mind. She turned around and faced Benjamin with a smile. "Really, thank you. It's so nice to be so welcomed after a little bit of... A downer description I got yesterday. Not to mention you're a complete stranger!" She paused, shifting an eyebrow. "Well, you're not going to kidnap me, are you?" she asked suspiciously. This was in a joking manner.

Benjamin laughed heartily. "Oh yes, I've got the bag in my pocket just for such occasions." He elbowed her playfully. "Come on, let's go. You're gonna love that cafe, I'm tellin' ya. Not really all that busy, so it's kinda nice." He looped arms with her and casually strode with her down the hallway and into the elevator. "So, I take it you know about the kidnappings." Suddenly, Benjamin's bright demeanor drained, his arm dropping, followed by hers.