He Stalks at Night

Ch.4 "Mystery behind the smile"

It's been 3 days and I'm finally settled in said Ashley to her self. No more unpacking, no more decorating so what to do Now? Well Ashley said looking at Smokey, it is a beautiful day I think I'll go for a jog. She went into the kitchen to pour Smokey some cat food, opened all the curtains to let the sun light in then went to change into some work out clothes Now you be a good boy she said to Smokey as she patted his head, I'll be back in a bit. Here said Ashley I'll turn on the tv so you don't get Lonely Ashley smiled then made her way out the door. Ashley looked around at the beautiful scenery and began doing some stretches to get the most out of her morning run. About a half mile into her run Ashley spotted a park. This looks like a good safe place to jog she thought to herself, then she entered the arch entrance of the park. Wow! thought Ashley this is a nicer park then anything I've seen back in Kansas. Ashley took in all the sights, the ponds with geese, abundance of rose bushes it felt like something in a fairy tale. Ashley heard loud thuds coming up from behind her, I'm sorry If I startled you said the man. It was another jogger. May I join you? We seem to be going the same place he said with a grin. Um sure Replied Ashley. She couldn't help but notice how handsome he was. His sandy blond hair, bright blue eyes and handsome smile. I'm Brandon said the handsome man, Ashley!, replied Ashley in between breathes. I've never seen you before said Brandon, I just moved here this week replied Ashley. Well you want to get some coffee and get to know each other? Asked Brandon, I know a great place! Well replied Ashley maybe some other time, I just need more me time she explained. Sure no pressure said Brandon, I'll be around! He waved goodbye as he parted off a trail to the right. Ashley thought the man was very handsome but couldn't help but feel like there was something strange about him. He seemed too perfect, too good to be true and his smile Ashley thought was too charming! Hmm I wonder what he's hiding Ashley thought to herself. Ashley stopped to look at her phone, well it's time to be heading back. smokey was anxiously waiting and meowing when Ashley came through the door. I'm going to shower smokes, she told smokey then I'll be back to show you some attention. As the shower was running, Ashley stared at herself in the mirror. Brandon came to mind. What would a handsome guy like that see in me? Ashley said out loud while observing herself. Ashley had Brown hair that reached the middle of her back, Brown eyes which she thought were basic, and a decent smile but not as nice as his. If he knew what I had been through, he would find me disgusting she thought. Who would want someone as broken as me? she asked herself out loud. For the rest of the day all she can think of was meeting Brandon earlier that morning. Her thoughts were broken into by a knock at the door. Ashley proceeded to open it. Oh hi Margaret! replied Ashley, hey girl said Margaret I was coming over to let you know we are having a town festival this afternoon at 4:00 in case you hadn't heard yet, if you'd like to go your welcome to join me! Ok I'll think about it and let you know. Margaret left. What do you think Smokey? He purred, I know said Ashley I need to stop being so secluded and mingle with people but it's a huge step for me she said while petting Smokey. I'll do it! She said. As they were heading into the crowed of people at the festival Ashleys eyes lit up! Never seen such a sight have you? asked Margaret cheerfully smiling at Ashley. I sure haven't replied Ashley. Ashley was having a wonderful evening but still couldnt help but to think about Brandon and the mystery behind his smile.