Protecting What's Mine

g with laughter, chatter, and music. My cheeks hurt from smiling so much. Everyone was so warm and welcoming. No

had been consumed, someone cranked up the

from the

eople of a certain age

aying? It w

ist, Chloe had dragged me out onto the makeshift dance floor as

ed to have a

incl

moves through the city. I can't help but be enthralled by the

the edges with sadness. It's difficult to think about them without feeling sorrow. I enjoyed hearing every single m

re when I started college, but they didn't get to see me walk across the stage and gra

here will always b

ns the door and head toward the building. George works the day shift. Someone else mans the door during the evenings. He's tall and gaunt-looking. With a smile in place, he tips hi

eminder that I'm on my own. No longer do I live with my parents. Nor do I share a dorm with a roommate.

uch and two tufted chairs, along with a stylish glass coffee table, rest on a plush area rug. The long expanse of floor to ceiling window

lions for this

t kitchen with white cabinets and gray marble, a formal dining room with pillars and a coffered ceiling, and a living room with a

ove

yself being hap

to say after touring this building. I think the heated swimming pool on the rooftop and gym

the windows. The view, even at night, is completely breathtaking. Every evening, arou

stle of the city below. It never seems to sleep, no matter what time it is. I may be alone, but when I'm out there, wa

ld be exhausted, I

hair is still piled on my head. The sapphire and diamond necklace shimmers against the paleness of my collarbone. Going to the butler's

like a turning

es me feel like I really am moving on with my life. I think my parents would be proud of me. For gr

Although I'm right across from the lake, a long stretch of greenery separates me from Lakeshore Driv

thing soothi

ere were times, especially during the first six months, when I didn't think I would make it

ew life in a city that I've always considered to be my hom

matter how horrific the aftermath, it continues to unfold

portunities that suddenly feel exciting and possible, I hear the French

t or so, my ears ar

s come out to enjoy the balmy evening as well. Summer will soon be over. Within a matter of w

ful scarfs. Believe it or not, I've missed Midwestern winters. Seattle is more temperate. It ha

the lookout. I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I've loitered in the lobby. Naturally I couldn't just come out and ask George about my sexy new neighb

it was a fruit

sightings of

the sound of the lake and the traffic continue wash