Elske - Intro, Chapters 1,2,3
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writers_loftLydia again. This is the start of my longest ongoing novel so far and I want to know what everybody thinks. If you enjoy it I will be posting more on my journal (http://lydsyko.livejournal.com/), so you can visit there to read more. Chapters 4 and 5 will be posted there hopefully sometime today. Any feedback would be helpful. Thank you.
Elske
Introduction
You know someone once told me love is a mysterious thing.
And I stand by that. You see I believe in those words.
In my quest to find the meaning of love, I discovered myself.
I should probably introduce myself. I suppose that would be the proper way to start off a book; if you know who you're listening to and reading about. Well, it's complicated, really. I've gone by many different names. So many, in fact, that at times I couldn't even remember my birth name. But never mind that, that'll come later. My given name is Elske which I believe is Danish for, you guessed it, Love. I haven't learned much Danish, but I know some of my Grandparents were from Denmark. So this is what I think I know in Danish: 'I love coffee' is 'Jeg elsker kaffe'
'I love shoes' is 'Jeg elsker sko'
And 'I love you' is 'Jeg elsker dig,'
Naturally everything I know how to say in Danish contains the word elsker meaning love. Of course, someone did recently teach me how to say 'I miss you' in Danish, 'Jeg savner dig.' Or at least, I'm pretty sure that's how you say all those things. But, hey, how would I know? I'm not a language professional, right?
I don't know much because I didn't really care to learn Danish. It was bad enough I had to learn a foreign language in school, and then one or two others when I got into my profession. But I'll go more into that later.
What I discovered, well, the meaning of love isn't all hearts and flowers, it's… wait a second I can't tell you what I discovered, it would spoil the ending. And besides, if you've never been in love then you won't understand what I'm talking about until the end, anyhow. Now for those of you who picked up this book and are now thinking to yourselves 'Ugh, did I just pick up a cheesy romance book? I thought this was supposed to be about some sort of exciting adventure.' I'm telling you, no, Ordering you, "Do not put this book down. I guarantee to all of my readers that this will not be a cheesy romance novel. In fact, it's hardly a romance novel at all. I am ensuring plenty of action and adventure into this story, and a fairly puny amount of all that soul mate crap.
And for all of you out there reading this novel who are into the romance stories (and were surely about to return this book), I will explain to you why this is not a romance book and why I'm calling it all that soul mate crap, so that you are not offended. Number one, I'm not writing it because it's not my cup of tea, or bowl of soup, or spoon of cheerios, or whatever the expression is these days. I'm just not into that sort of thing. Number two, anyone who has ever written about anything extremely complicated as their subject of an entire book, has to have had experienced it for it to even be remotely close to a good book. And I'm not just speaking about love, I was just referring to anything as complicated or puzzlistic that can wrap the whole world in a knot of confusion. For example, the meaning of life. Yeah, that's a big one. It has puzzled plenty of scientists, or even other ordinary people who know nothing about science. My point is, it is a very controversial subject that no one knows about for positive so all the books written about the meaning of existence and what not are just books filled to the brim with ridiculous theories. Theories aren't accurate until they can be proven, then they become postulates or the truth, in other more simple words. Theories make for crappy books. Love however is not a theory because plenty of people experience it in many different forms. Now I could write about the love that is shared between family members, or the love that is shared in friendship, and come out with an amazing book. But I could not, however, write about the romantic genre of love because I myself have not experienced it, so that would make for a horrible book, one which no one would want to read. Not even myself.
Of course, after all that ranting, I very much doubt that you want to continue reading this story anyway, but hey, I'm taking a chance here. Besides, I don't think you would be reading this anyway if A) you didn't like to read, B) You're a family member or friend of the author and you have to read it because it's polite, or you just pretend to read when they're watching, Or C) You don't have a choice; it's school work, in which case I would feel very sorry for you, but I'll try to make this story as interesting as possible. If I succeed in making it as interesting as I would hope it would be to readers, then hopefully you wouldn't have to read it for school anyway, because I don't intend on it being very informational. (I would like it to be somewhat interesting and perhaps a little funny. If you're reading this because of school, then I have probably failed, unless of course they told you that you could choose whichever book you'd like to read out of all the books in the universe. In that case, I'd be very honored you chose this one.)
Anyhow, by this point I'm sure you're very confused about the meaning behind this story. But just hang in there, you'll see.
Sincerely,
Elske
Chapter One
Well, let me just say that I appreciate your audience in the continuation of this story because if you read ALL of the above spewing of words then you have the patience of the Gods because you are still reading it. So I shall now show you all my appreciation and hopefully some entertainment as we go. Okay? Alright let's get started. Actually I'm not sure where to start. I suppose I should really start the day I was given a job. Yes, that's really where the story began. So here we go, my first job interview…
Dear Ms. Elske Lassen,
We understand that you have applied for a job opening in our department. We are sorry to tell you that the position for which you sent the application about was filled this passing Friday. However, we do have another position that will be opening within our department with the coming two weeks, due to a member of our staff retiring.
We have looked over your resume and letters of recommendation and were pleased with what we found. It seems you come highly recommended and with some necessary qualifications for the position that will shortly need to be filled. Having said this, we would like to meet with you for an interview this coming Tuesday at 1 PM.
If you are interested in joining this unit and becoming part of this company we would like for you to show up. This envelope should also contain another letter providing directions on how to get there. If you are not interested in our request to meet you please write back stating so as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Edward B. Hutchkins
Manager.
"Wow," I had said to myself. "Pretty formal for a supermarket." Unfortunately William heard my remark and burst out in a fit of laughter. "And just what is so funny?" I ask seriously.
"That's all you can say to that?" he asks, still smiling. "'Pretty formal for a supermarket.' Just cracks me up," he finished, chuckling lightly at me.
"Well, it's not the position I applied for," I started. "They mention that. But they don't mention what position's up for grabs." I looked over at him from across the café table. He had stopped laughing now, but still had a small smile on his face. He lifted his mug up to his mouth and began sipping his hot tea. He shrugs.
"What's your point?" he asks.
"Well, my point is that if I don't know what position I'm being offered, it makes me not want to go," I stated simply, looking at him. He placed his mug back on the table and looked back at me.
"Why does it make you not want to go?" he inquired, genuinely curious.
"I may not like the job position. What if it's, like, trash lady or something?"
"You'll never know unless you go," he states honestly. "I still think you should go. Because no matter what position you applied for you still need a job." After seeing I was about to argue with him about it, he cut me off. "If they're offering you a job as a trash lady, no matter how disgusting it may be, you have to take it. You need the money. I can't help you pay for your rent forever you know." William shot me a smirk.
"I suppose you're right," I sigh.
"What placement did you apply for anyhow?" He puzzled.
"Cashier."
"Who'd you get to right you recommendations for that?" He blew out in hysterics. "'Oh, Ms. Lassen, you come so highly recommended,'" Will mocked in a girlish voice.
"Oh, shut up, Will," I said, playfully smacking his arm, and then beginning to laugh about it myself. Once we had finally calmed down, I went up to the counter to get refills of our drinks. I came back with more hot tea with honey and lemon for William, and a cup of black coffee with cream and sugar for myself. I sat back down across from William again and took a sip of my coffee.
"I don't know how you can stand to drink that stuff. It's disgusting," William said. I glanced down at my coffee.
"Me neither," I say with a shrug, and Will starts laughing again. "Will, what is wrong with you today? You crack up at everything. Do you think maybe they spiked the honey in your tea?" I asked him and he laughed even louder at that. "Or did you drink that silly juice I bought for myself?" He laughs harder. "You did, didn't you? How many times have I warned you not to touch my orange juice? It's spiked, remember?" I say jokingly. By this point he's almost on the floor, he's laughing so much. I began to snicker at how ridiculous he looks, when I notice that everyone in the café is staring at us. This doesn't bother me, because I've made a fool out of my self plenty of times in public so after a while, you tend not to be embarrassed about things such as this. But Will on the other hand is a very high society person, so if I had told him that the entirety of the café's occupants were staring at us right now, he'd shut right up, try to get out of there as quick as possible, and then never want to come back again. Good thing I didn't mention it, and lucky for me he never noticed, because this café is one of my favorite places to hang out.
When he had finally calmed down, I glanced at his face, noticing its color. I started snickering again, and covered my mouth.
"What?" Will asks.
"You're face. It's the color of a cherry."
"It's probably from all the laughing. Although, your face is kinda tinted too. Are you blushing, Red?" he asks lightheartedly.
"You know, I do not blush, Will," I defended.
"Whatever you say, Red," he smiled at me.
"God," I sigh suddenly being taken back to older memories.
"What?"
"Nobody's called me Red in years," I say, referring to the nickname given to me because of my hair color.
"Is that a bad thing?" he asks.
"No. Just I wasn't expecting you to call me by it," I stated, smiling at him. He smiled back. Suddenly the entrance door behind Will's seat swung open, and in strolled Nick. I looked down instantly.
"What's wrong, Elske?" Will asked me.
"Hide me," I whisper still staring down and trying to cover my face so that Nick wouldn't recognize me. Will looked at me puzzled, then following my anxious glances over at the counter, he saw Nick ordering lunch. I saw the fury rise up in Will almost immediately.
"Come on, Red. Let's go," he said grabbing my hand and helping me up. He began pulling me out the door before Nick could turn around and notice us. As we swiftly walked down the street trying to get away from the café, I took a single glance back, and saw him seating himself at the table we were just at. A girl began to approach the table, and I tugged Will to a sudden stop, still turned around. He stopped and followed my glance back just in time to see Nick stand up and kiss the anonymous girls lips. And not just a quick peck either. Tears began to run down my cheek but I was unconscious to them until Will looked at me and saw them, quickly brushing one away.
"Come on, let's get out of here," he said sympathetically. "I will not let you wallow in pity any longer." And with that we turned from the café and left.
Chapter Two
Will and I were walking along the streets of Manhattan with no particular destination in mind. I still couldn't get the image of Nick kissing that girl out of my head. How could he do that? I asked my self. And after Will glanced over at me with a concerned look for the fifteenth million time, I voiced it.
"How could he?" I whine out.
"He's a prick, don't worry about him." William said.
"Why are you so good to me?" I asked him. He didn't answer me just shrugged.
"You act just like my big brother would if I had one," I say and smile over at him. I look back ahead and sigh. "Unfortunately, I have two younger brothers, who drive me crazy sometimes, and need my protection."
"Come on, Red," he said grabbing my hand again and leading me in the direction of a line of stores. I took notice to the fact that he kept calling me Red today, as if he was trying to get used to the name again.
"Where are we going?" I ask curiously.
"To make you feel better," he stated simply, but would reveal no more, no matter how much I persisted. All he would say was, "It's a surprise." Or "You'll see." Or "Don't worry about it. Just trust me." So I did.
He dragged me into a store that I didn't catch the name of as we passed by the sign. Once inside, Will walked with me around to the back of the store.
"Where are we?" I asked. All I received for an answer was a smile. Behind a rack of clothes there was a door. Will moved the rack aside, opening the door.
"Come on," he said.
"What's with the mysteriousness?" I questioned.
"No reason," he answered. "Just want to show you something." He kept a hold of my hand as we walked along to another door which opened to reveal a large staircase. We climbed the stairs together, and at last came to a final door. Will stopped to look back at me and grin before opening it. Will stepped through, with me right behind him.
"What are we here for?" I ask noticing he had led me to the roof of the store building. He walked me over to the ledge.
"Look down," he told me once we were there. I did. The sight before me was splendorous. It was truly a magical sight.
"It's magnificent, Will," I breathed out. I couldn't believe how wonderful a view of the city this was. Manhattan had never seemed so appealing to me in my life from such heights. Now looking back on it, I think it was because Will had shared it with me, so that had made it all the more special. Especially now, I treasure it more than ever considering all the things Will had gone through for me some time after that. But I'll explain that when we come to it. For now, back to the story.
"I knew you'd like it," Will commented, looking over and beaming at me. "A magnificent view, for a magnificent girl."
"Thank you so much," I say hugging him, and receiving one back. "So what is this place anyway?" I ask breaking away from the hug.
"It's the rooftop of my favorite store building. You know, the one I'm always going shopping in. I'm really good friends with the owners as well." He sighed and after a moment continued with, "I used to come up here a lot by myself to help me clear my head. It was my special place," he looked down at me. "And now it can be ours."
"You're going to share your special place with me? Of all people?" I asked in shock.
"Anything for you, Freckles," he said using another old nickname, and cracked a smile. I chortled.
"What is it with you and using all my embarrassing nicknames today?" I say.
"I don't understand why they're embarrassing. I think they help to better define you," he explained.
"Meaning?" I quizzed.
"Well, they point out some of your features. Besides, I like them."
"You always have," I respond, looking back at the streets of the Big Apple in a peaceful serenity, and contented silence. A gust of wind whipped my hair around my head, causing me to forget all about my upcoming job interview, and Nick. Which reminds me, I never really did explain about Nick, Will, or even myself for that matter. I'm sure many of you are curious about a few select things right about now.
Well, let's see. What do you know about me so far? My name is Elske, you knew that. I'm part Danish, you knew that. I'm female, just kidding, but you knew that, and if you didn't now you do. I have red hair, and freckles, which you can deduct from the fact that my nicknames are 'Red' and 'Freckles.' But what don't you know about me? I'm about 5'5. Will is probably 5'6.5, 5'7, something like that. I have fair, creamy skin. Will's skin is a darker, tanish color and he has black messy hair. I'm twenty three years old. Of course, that's now. In this story I am about eighteen maybe nineteen, and Will, of course is twenty one, twenty two, somewhere around there, seeing as today he would be about twenty seven. I come from a fairly poor background. Meaning my family scraped by on just enough to survive, basically.
Will, on the other hand, comes from a wealthy family. That's why I mentioned earlier that he's high society. Real classy and all. But he's actually pretty pleasant for an upscale person. We met when we were younger. I'd say I was probably about eleven and he was about fourteen, fifteen. We became friends instantly. It was a much unexpected pairing.
Our lives collided together by a total accident, or so I thought at the time. What happened was this. One night I was walking down the street to the local grocery store on my own headed to get a small jug of milk, seeing as we could barely afford anything more than that.
Dirt covered my face as I walked along the street. Scared to death about being out on my own at such a late hour, but I told my parents I wanted to take on more responsibility and be treated more as a grown up should. Me being eleven I want as much respect as any other adult would. So they send me out at nine o clock just to get a jug of milk.
All of a sudden a big limousine flew past, splashing me with filthy water from this morning's heavy showers. It soaked through my light layer of clothing touching my skin and making it damp. A light breeze blew, giving me a chill, but I continued walking. What could I possibly do about it? Nothing, so I kept going. The thought didn't even cross my mind that a limousine would be cruising around this portion of town, that is until I arrived at the supermarket a few blocks later and noticed it sitting in the parking lot of the store building. A soon as I saw it, I began fuming, but kept to myself none the less.
I walk into the store and head over to the dairy isle. I walk over to the section containing the milk cartons and jugs, and located the cheapest of the bunch. Choosing the one that was marked as the freshest of them, I lifted it with only slight difficulty and turned around to head to the register. When I swerved around, however, I ran into somebody, and the milk jug goes soaring through the air, landing upon the floor with a huge spill splashing my legs.
"You little wench!" the owner of the voice said with feeling, and a strong emphasis on the word 'wench.' "Look at what you've done!" he fumed, and I glanced up at his face in embarrassment and shame. I notice he is pointing down at what he wants to show me below. I follow the direction of his finger and spot that he is wearing a very nice, expensive pair of shoes, one of which was splashed with a bit of milk. "You've ruined my shoes! Do you realize how much this is gonna cost me?!" he continued, fuming. "I demand you pay me for this."
All at the same time, my legs were dripping with the spilt substance. Looking down at the money in my hand, which was just enough to pay for the milk, I stare back up at the male, who clearly towered over me, and am terrified.
"I'm sorry, sir. All I have is enough to pay for a jug of milk," I stutter frightened.
"What is going on back here?" says a man wearing a red apron worn by all the workers at the store. The older man took in the sight of the spilt milk on the ground, and then looked up at the faces of the bully and myself. He looked directly at the bully and stated, "I hope you intend to pay for this young man."
"I'm not paying for a damn thing. In fact, I intend to be paid."
"For what?" inquired the cashier, angrily.
"For my shoes. This little bitch here has destroyed them!"
"Cut it with the language," he yelled, then looking over at me, says "Well then you did this did you?" I shook my head ashamed. "Well, somebody had better pay for it, I don't care who."
"What happened?" asked a young man rounding the corner on the scene. "Rick, what have you done?" he demanded, taking in all the sights. Then, reaching into his pockets he pulled out some cash and paid the man for the milk. The cashier took the money and walked away agitatedly. I began crying. "Rick, find your own way home, you jerk," the other man said, and the bully ran off. "I'll pay for your milk, don't worry about it," he told me, and I stopped crying, and shook my head.
"Okay," I squeaked, and he smiled at me.
"My name's Will," he said holding out his hand for me to shake.
"Elske," I say and take his hand to shake.
Ever since then we've been like two peas in a pod, Will and I.
Now Nick is a whole different story.
He is my ex boyfriend. But he played me. He was the most intimate I had ever gotten with in any of my past relationships. I had trusted him, but I shouldn't have. After he had gotten what he wanted from me, he tossed me to the side like an old piece of garbage. Anyway, that's the deal. I guess since that has taken up a good portion of this chapter I should probably get back to the story.
Chapter Three
Will and I stayed on the rooftop for a while. We left when the owners came up and told us they were closing down. So we ended up leaving after dark.
We headed back to my apartment. Will and I were walking there, when Will suddenly grabbed my hand. At first I didn't realize we were holding hands. That is until he gave it a comforting squeeze. I looked over at him, and smiled mildly.
"What's the matter?" Will asked sensing something was wrong.
"Nothing," I sigh. "Just a little tired."
"Are you sure?" he persisted.
"Yeah, just a long day."
"I'm kind of tired myself, actually." Will told me.
"Do you want to crash at my place tonight?" I asked him.
"Sure," he said. "I'd like that."
We walked the rest of the way in silence, just enjoying each others company. When we reached the building, and walked inside, the man behind the counter gave us a look, but didn't say anything. He was used to Will by now.
We entered the flat.
"I'll take the couch. You can have the bed," I said. I knew he was about to argue with me, so I cut him off before he started. "I don't feel like bickering about right now, Will. I put a fresh sheet on this morning."
"Okay," he agreed, knowing he wouldn't win anyhow. "I'll see you in the morning," he said.
"You too," I said. "Good night."
"'Night."
As soon as my head hit the pillow that night, I was out. About twelve thirty A.M., I began having a nightmare. I tossed and turned, sweat beading itself on my forehead.
I was walking, and walking and walking. Through a pit of nothingness. All of a sudden, a surrounding presented itself around me. And with that surrounding, Nick appeared.
"Nick! What are you doing here," I screamed, recognizing the surroundings as an alleyway.
"I'm here for you," he said simply.
"What do you mean? We're over."
"I'm not here to win your heart again. I'm here to get what I want from you."
"You never won my heart," I spat. "I never loved you. And I never should have trusted you."
"Too bad for you, you did," he sneered.
"What do you want from me?" I whimpered. "Why can't you just leave me alone?"
"I'm here to relieve some sexual tension between us," he replied huskily.
"So you're here to rape me?" I said with more confidence then I had.
"Only if you refuse to cooperate," he said. "I'd rather not rape you, but if that's what it comes down to then that's what it'll have to be."
"Well, I'd never have sex with you. You hear me? Never!"
"Wrong answer." He began shredding my clothing and for some reason I couldn't fight him. I was crying. Tear stained cheeks, continually being stained. I struggled for control and screamed for him to stop. Somewhere along the line, he had shed his clothes and was positioning himself painfully at my entrance.
"Please, Nick! Please Don't," but he wouldn't listen to me. "Please! Stop!" But he wouldn't. He shoved himself dangerously and painfully inside of me and didn't stop when I screamed in pain. He began shaking me all of a sudden, and started screaming my name. Only it didn't sound like him. The voice sounded distant.
"Elske!" it said. "Elske!"
"Elske!" Will said. "Come on, wake up!" I started to stir, still screaming. Yelling for help. "ELSKE!" Will screamed, even more worriedly, still shaking me. I suddenly sat up, scared to death. Will went to hug me and comfort me but I cowered away and curled into a ball, whimpering. Not realizing that it was Will. After that, Will backed off until I took in my surroundings. Once I realized where I was and who was in front of me, I began crying again even harder, and wrapped my arms around Will's neck, pulling him into a hug. He wrapped his arms around me too, and neither of us would let go. He picked me up and carried me into the bedroom, laying me on the bed. He tried to pull away to go sleep on the couch, but I apparently wouldn't have any of that. I let go of him and as he started to walk away I grabbed his hand and held it with all the strength I had. I pulled him back to me and continued crying.
"Will," I cry out. He waits a moment, to see if I'll say more. When I don't he sits down on the bed with me, and squeezes my hand back to let me know he was still there.
"What is it? What happened?" he asked. I began crying again.
"Will," I began. "Will, can you promise me something?"
"Anything, Elske. Anything at all," he said to me.
"Never leave me," I said. "Never leave me alone."
"Never. I won't. Not ever," he agreed. "I'm just going to go sleep on the couch, okay?"
"No. Stay," I said, desperate. "Don't leave me alone," I cry again. He walks over to the other side of the bed and lies down beside me.
"I promise," he held me until I fell back to sleep. And for once in a long time I fell asleep feeling safe, in the arms of my best friend.
In the morning, I woke up in my bed. At first I wondered how I got there. My thoughts wandered to last night. I suddenly remembered how I got there. I smiled and rolled over to greet William. But he wasn't there. I began panicking. I jumped out of bed. I ran into the next room, which was attached to a small kitchen. In which William was cooking a hearty breakfast. Enough for the both of us.
"What's this?" I ask.
"It's breakfast," Will answered, putting a few slices of bacon and a pile of scrambled eggs on a plate putting them in front of me. He went to the fridge, pulling out the ketchup and setting it on the table in front of me.
"Thanks," I said. "A lot."
"No problem," Will said, just as toast popped up from the toaster. He grabbed them out and buttered a piece and adding grape jam. He placed it on my plate, and then dished himself a bit of everything, sitting across from me on the counter. I smiled over at him. "Feeling better?" he asked. My smile quickly faded, remembering my dream.
"I was," I stated.
"I'm sorry," William apologized, looking down at his plate.
"It's alright," I said. "What happened?"
"What do you mean?" Will asked.
"When you woke me up," I said simply.
"Well, I woke up when I heard you screaming," he started, looking up at me nervously. "And I came out and saw you thrashing around on the couch, screaming, crying. So, I ran over to you and kept trying to wake you up," he looked back down at his dish, picking at his food. "When you finally woke up you," he hesitated.
"I tried to get away from you?" I asked.
"Yeah. And then I picked you up and carried you to the bed, and," he stopped.
"When I woke up this morning, and you weren't there with me, I," I paused. "I got scared."
"I'm sorry," Will said earnestly. "I just figured you'd want breakfast."
"I appreciate it," I said dipping my scrambled eggs in more ketchup before placing it in my mouth.
"Do you want to talk about it?" Will asked.
"No, William. I do not want to talk about it."
"Using full names now, huh?" Will asked offended. "After last night?"
"What about last night?" I snapped.
"You made me promise not to leave you. You made me sleep in the bed with you."
"Yeah, and now I'm making you drop the subject, Will." He stood up from his stool, setting his empty plate in the sink.
Walking back to the bar, he looked me straight in the eye and said, "Maybe I'd better go then."
"Maybe you should," I responded. And with that Will walked toward the door, only glancing back once to see if I would follow him. And when I didn't budge, he opened the door and left, slamming it shut behind him. I was debating whether or not to go after him, when my telephone rang.
"Hello," I said on the verge of tears.
"Hi Elske," Nick hissed on the other side. "Long time no see."
As soon as I recognized the voice on the other end I hung up the phone, and made my snap decision to go after William.
Elske
Introduction
You know someone once told me love is a mysterious thing.
And I stand by that. You see I believe in those words.
In my quest to find the meaning of love, I discovered myself.
I should probably introduce myself. I suppose that would be the proper way to start off a book; if you know who you're listening to and reading about. Well, it's complicated, really. I've gone by many different names. So many, in fact, that at times I couldn't even remember my birth name. But never mind that, that'll come later. My given name is Elske which I believe is Danish for, you guessed it, Love. I haven't learned much Danish, but I know some of my Grandparents were from Denmark. So this is what I think I know in Danish: 'I love coffee' is 'Jeg elsker kaffe'
'I love shoes' is 'Jeg elsker sko'
And 'I love you' is 'Jeg elsker dig,'
Naturally everything I know how to say in Danish contains the word elsker meaning love. Of course, someone did recently teach me how to say 'I miss you' in Danish, 'Jeg savner dig.' Or at least, I'm pretty sure that's how you say all those things. But, hey, how would I know? I'm not a language professional, right?
I don't know much because I didn't really care to learn Danish. It was bad enough I had to learn a foreign language in school, and then one or two others when I got into my profession. But I'll go more into that later.
What I discovered, well, the meaning of love isn't all hearts and flowers, it's… wait a second I can't tell you what I discovered, it would spoil the ending. And besides, if you've never been in love then you won't understand what I'm talking about until the end, anyhow. Now for those of you who picked up this book and are now thinking to yourselves 'Ugh, did I just pick up a cheesy romance book? I thought this was supposed to be about some sort of exciting adventure.' I'm telling you, no, Ordering you, "Do not put this book down. I guarantee to all of my readers that this will not be a cheesy romance novel. In fact, it's hardly a romance novel at all. I am ensuring plenty of action and adventure into this story, and a fairly puny amount of all that soul mate crap.
And for all of you out there reading this novel who are into the romance stories (and were surely about to return this book), I will explain to you why this is not a romance book and why I'm calling it all that soul mate crap, so that you are not offended. Number one, I'm not writing it because it's not my cup of tea, or bowl of soup, or spoon of cheerios, or whatever the expression is these days. I'm just not into that sort of thing. Number two, anyone who has ever written about anything extremely complicated as their subject of an entire book, has to have had experienced it for it to even be remotely close to a good book. And I'm not just speaking about love, I was just referring to anything as complicated or puzzlistic that can wrap the whole world in a knot of confusion. For example, the meaning of life. Yeah, that's a big one. It has puzzled plenty of scientists, or even other ordinary people who know nothing about science. My point is, it is a very controversial subject that no one knows about for positive so all the books written about the meaning of existence and what not are just books filled to the brim with ridiculous theories. Theories aren't accurate until they can be proven, then they become postulates or the truth, in other more simple words. Theories make for crappy books. Love however is not a theory because plenty of people experience it in many different forms. Now I could write about the love that is shared between family members, or the love that is shared in friendship, and come out with an amazing book. But I could not, however, write about the romantic genre of love because I myself have not experienced it, so that would make for a horrible book, one which no one would want to read. Not even myself.
Of course, after all that ranting, I very much doubt that you want to continue reading this story anyway, but hey, I'm taking a chance here. Besides, I don't think you would be reading this anyway if A) you didn't like to read, B) You're a family member or friend of the author and you have to read it because it's polite, or you just pretend to read when they're watching, Or C) You don't have a choice; it's school work, in which case I would feel very sorry for you, but I'll try to make this story as interesting as possible. If I succeed in making it as interesting as I would hope it would be to readers, then hopefully you wouldn't have to read it for school anyway, because I don't intend on it being very informational. (I would like it to be somewhat interesting and perhaps a little funny. If you're reading this because of school, then I have probably failed, unless of course they told you that you could choose whichever book you'd like to read out of all the books in the universe. In that case, I'd be very honored you chose this one.)
Anyhow, by this point I'm sure you're very confused about the meaning behind this story. But just hang in there, you'll see.
Sincerely,
Elske
Chapter One
Well, let me just say that I appreciate your audience in the continuation of this story because if you read ALL of the above spewing of words then you have the patience of the Gods because you are still reading it. So I shall now show you all my appreciation and hopefully some entertainment as we go. Okay? Alright let's get started. Actually I'm not sure where to start. I suppose I should really start the day I was given a job. Yes, that's really where the story began. So here we go, my first job interview…
Dear Ms. Elske Lassen,
We understand that you have applied for a job opening in our department. We are sorry to tell you that the position for which you sent the application about was filled this passing Friday. However, we do have another position that will be opening within our department with the coming two weeks, due to a member of our staff retiring.
We have looked over your resume and letters of recommendation and were pleased with what we found. It seems you come highly recommended and with some necessary qualifications for the position that will shortly need to be filled. Having said this, we would like to meet with you for an interview this coming Tuesday at 1 PM.
If you are interested in joining this unit and becoming part of this company we would like for you to show up. This envelope should also contain another letter providing directions on how to get there. If you are not interested in our request to meet you please write back stating so as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Edward B. Hutchkins
Manager.
"Wow," I had said to myself. "Pretty formal for a supermarket." Unfortunately William heard my remark and burst out in a fit of laughter. "And just what is so funny?" I ask seriously.
"That's all you can say to that?" he asks, still smiling. "'Pretty formal for a supermarket.' Just cracks me up," he finished, chuckling lightly at me.
"Well, it's not the position I applied for," I started. "They mention that. But they don't mention what position's up for grabs." I looked over at him from across the café table. He had stopped laughing now, but still had a small smile on his face. He lifted his mug up to his mouth and began sipping his hot tea. He shrugs.
"What's your point?" he asks.
"Well, my point is that if I don't know what position I'm being offered, it makes me not want to go," I stated simply, looking at him. He placed his mug back on the table and looked back at me.
"Why does it make you not want to go?" he inquired, genuinely curious.
"I may not like the job position. What if it's, like, trash lady or something?"
"You'll never know unless you go," he states honestly. "I still think you should go. Because no matter what position you applied for you still need a job." After seeing I was about to argue with him about it, he cut me off. "If they're offering you a job as a trash lady, no matter how disgusting it may be, you have to take it. You need the money. I can't help you pay for your rent forever you know." William shot me a smirk.
"I suppose you're right," I sigh.
"What placement did you apply for anyhow?" He puzzled.
"Cashier."
"Who'd you get to right you recommendations for that?" He blew out in hysterics. "'Oh, Ms. Lassen, you come so highly recommended,'" Will mocked in a girlish voice.
"Oh, shut up, Will," I said, playfully smacking his arm, and then beginning to laugh about it myself. Once we had finally calmed down, I went up to the counter to get refills of our drinks. I came back with more hot tea with honey and lemon for William, and a cup of black coffee with cream and sugar for myself. I sat back down across from William again and took a sip of my coffee.
"I don't know how you can stand to drink that stuff. It's disgusting," William said. I glanced down at my coffee.
"Me neither," I say with a shrug, and Will starts laughing again. "Will, what is wrong with you today? You crack up at everything. Do you think maybe they spiked the honey in your tea?" I asked him and he laughed even louder at that. "Or did you drink that silly juice I bought for myself?" He laughs harder. "You did, didn't you? How many times have I warned you not to touch my orange juice? It's spiked, remember?" I say jokingly. By this point he's almost on the floor, he's laughing so much. I began to snicker at how ridiculous he looks, when I notice that everyone in the café is staring at us. This doesn't bother me, because I've made a fool out of my self plenty of times in public so after a while, you tend not to be embarrassed about things such as this. But Will on the other hand is a very high society person, so if I had told him that the entirety of the café's occupants were staring at us right now, he'd shut right up, try to get out of there as quick as possible, and then never want to come back again. Good thing I didn't mention it, and lucky for me he never noticed, because this café is one of my favorite places to hang out.
When he had finally calmed down, I glanced at his face, noticing its color. I started snickering again, and covered my mouth.
"What?" Will asks.
"You're face. It's the color of a cherry."
"It's probably from all the laughing. Although, your face is kinda tinted too. Are you blushing, Red?" he asks lightheartedly.
"You know, I do not blush, Will," I defended.
"Whatever you say, Red," he smiled at me.
"God," I sigh suddenly being taken back to older memories.
"What?"
"Nobody's called me Red in years," I say, referring to the nickname given to me because of my hair color.
"Is that a bad thing?" he asks.
"No. Just I wasn't expecting you to call me by it," I stated, smiling at him. He smiled back. Suddenly the entrance door behind Will's seat swung open, and in strolled Nick. I looked down instantly.
"What's wrong, Elske?" Will asked me.
"Hide me," I whisper still staring down and trying to cover my face so that Nick wouldn't recognize me. Will looked at me puzzled, then following my anxious glances over at the counter, he saw Nick ordering lunch. I saw the fury rise up in Will almost immediately.
"Come on, Red. Let's go," he said grabbing my hand and helping me up. He began pulling me out the door before Nick could turn around and notice us. As we swiftly walked down the street trying to get away from the café, I took a single glance back, and saw him seating himself at the table we were just at. A girl began to approach the table, and I tugged Will to a sudden stop, still turned around. He stopped and followed my glance back just in time to see Nick stand up and kiss the anonymous girls lips. And not just a quick peck either. Tears began to run down my cheek but I was unconscious to them until Will looked at me and saw them, quickly brushing one away.
"Come on, let's get out of here," he said sympathetically. "I will not let you wallow in pity any longer." And with that we turned from the café and left.
Chapter Two
Will and I were walking along the streets of Manhattan with no particular destination in mind. I still couldn't get the image of Nick kissing that girl out of my head. How could he do that? I asked my self. And after Will glanced over at me with a concerned look for the fifteenth million time, I voiced it.
"How could he?" I whine out.
"He's a prick, don't worry about him." William said.
"Why are you so good to me?" I asked him. He didn't answer me just shrugged.
"You act just like my big brother would if I had one," I say and smile over at him. I look back ahead and sigh. "Unfortunately, I have two younger brothers, who drive me crazy sometimes, and need my protection."
"Come on, Red," he said grabbing my hand again and leading me in the direction of a line of stores. I took notice to the fact that he kept calling me Red today, as if he was trying to get used to the name again.
"Where are we going?" I ask curiously.
"To make you feel better," he stated simply, but would reveal no more, no matter how much I persisted. All he would say was, "It's a surprise." Or "You'll see." Or "Don't worry about it. Just trust me." So I did.
He dragged me into a store that I didn't catch the name of as we passed by the sign. Once inside, Will walked with me around to the back of the store.
"Where are we?" I asked. All I received for an answer was a smile. Behind a rack of clothes there was a door. Will moved the rack aside, opening the door.
"Come on," he said.
"What's with the mysteriousness?" I questioned.
"No reason," he answered. "Just want to show you something." He kept a hold of my hand as we walked along to another door which opened to reveal a large staircase. We climbed the stairs together, and at last came to a final door. Will stopped to look back at me and grin before opening it. Will stepped through, with me right behind him.
"What are we here for?" I ask noticing he had led me to the roof of the store building. He walked me over to the ledge.
"Look down," he told me once we were there. I did. The sight before me was splendorous. It was truly a magical sight.
"It's magnificent, Will," I breathed out. I couldn't believe how wonderful a view of the city this was. Manhattan had never seemed so appealing to me in my life from such heights. Now looking back on it, I think it was because Will had shared it with me, so that had made it all the more special. Especially now, I treasure it more than ever considering all the things Will had gone through for me some time after that. But I'll explain that when we come to it. For now, back to the story.
"I knew you'd like it," Will commented, looking over and beaming at me. "A magnificent view, for a magnificent girl."
"Thank you so much," I say hugging him, and receiving one back. "So what is this place anyway?" I ask breaking away from the hug.
"It's the rooftop of my favorite store building. You know, the one I'm always going shopping in. I'm really good friends with the owners as well." He sighed and after a moment continued with, "I used to come up here a lot by myself to help me clear my head. It was my special place," he looked down at me. "And now it can be ours."
"You're going to share your special place with me? Of all people?" I asked in shock.
"Anything for you, Freckles," he said using another old nickname, and cracked a smile. I chortled.
"What is it with you and using all my embarrassing nicknames today?" I say.
"I don't understand why they're embarrassing. I think they help to better define you," he explained.
"Meaning?" I quizzed.
"Well, they point out some of your features. Besides, I like them."
"You always have," I respond, looking back at the streets of the Big Apple in a peaceful serenity, and contented silence. A gust of wind whipped my hair around my head, causing me to forget all about my upcoming job interview, and Nick. Which reminds me, I never really did explain about Nick, Will, or even myself for that matter. I'm sure many of you are curious about a few select things right about now.
Well, let's see. What do you know about me so far? My name is Elske, you knew that. I'm part Danish, you knew that. I'm female, just kidding, but you knew that, and if you didn't now you do. I have red hair, and freckles, which you can deduct from the fact that my nicknames are 'Red' and 'Freckles.' But what don't you know about me? I'm about 5'5. Will is probably 5'6.5, 5'7, something like that. I have fair, creamy skin. Will's skin is a darker, tanish color and he has black messy hair. I'm twenty three years old. Of course, that's now. In this story I am about eighteen maybe nineteen, and Will, of course is twenty one, twenty two, somewhere around there, seeing as today he would be about twenty seven. I come from a fairly poor background. Meaning my family scraped by on just enough to survive, basically.
Will, on the other hand, comes from a wealthy family. That's why I mentioned earlier that he's high society. Real classy and all. But he's actually pretty pleasant for an upscale person. We met when we were younger. I'd say I was probably about eleven and he was about fourteen, fifteen. We became friends instantly. It was a much unexpected pairing.
Our lives collided together by a total accident, or so I thought at the time. What happened was this. One night I was walking down the street to the local grocery store on my own headed to get a small jug of milk, seeing as we could barely afford anything more than that.
Dirt covered my face as I walked along the street. Scared to death about being out on my own at such a late hour, but I told my parents I wanted to take on more responsibility and be treated more as a grown up should. Me being eleven I want as much respect as any other adult would. So they send me out at nine o clock just to get a jug of milk.
All of a sudden a big limousine flew past, splashing me with filthy water from this morning's heavy showers. It soaked through my light layer of clothing touching my skin and making it damp. A light breeze blew, giving me a chill, but I continued walking. What could I possibly do about it? Nothing, so I kept going. The thought didn't even cross my mind that a limousine would be cruising around this portion of town, that is until I arrived at the supermarket a few blocks later and noticed it sitting in the parking lot of the store building. A soon as I saw it, I began fuming, but kept to myself none the less.
I walk into the store and head over to the dairy isle. I walk over to the section containing the milk cartons and jugs, and located the cheapest of the bunch. Choosing the one that was marked as the freshest of them, I lifted it with only slight difficulty and turned around to head to the register. When I swerved around, however, I ran into somebody, and the milk jug goes soaring through the air, landing upon the floor with a huge spill splashing my legs.
"You little wench!" the owner of the voice said with feeling, and a strong emphasis on the word 'wench.' "Look at what you've done!" he fumed, and I glanced up at his face in embarrassment and shame. I notice he is pointing down at what he wants to show me below. I follow the direction of his finger and spot that he is wearing a very nice, expensive pair of shoes, one of which was splashed with a bit of milk. "You've ruined my shoes! Do you realize how much this is gonna cost me?!" he continued, fuming. "I demand you pay me for this."
All at the same time, my legs were dripping with the spilt substance. Looking down at the money in my hand, which was just enough to pay for the milk, I stare back up at the male, who clearly towered over me, and am terrified.
"I'm sorry, sir. All I have is enough to pay for a jug of milk," I stutter frightened.
"What is going on back here?" says a man wearing a red apron worn by all the workers at the store. The older man took in the sight of the spilt milk on the ground, and then looked up at the faces of the bully and myself. He looked directly at the bully and stated, "I hope you intend to pay for this young man."
"I'm not paying for a damn thing. In fact, I intend to be paid."
"For what?" inquired the cashier, angrily.
"For my shoes. This little bitch here has destroyed them!"
"Cut it with the language," he yelled, then looking over at me, says "Well then you did this did you?" I shook my head ashamed. "Well, somebody had better pay for it, I don't care who."
"What happened?" asked a young man rounding the corner on the scene. "Rick, what have you done?" he demanded, taking in all the sights. Then, reaching into his pockets he pulled out some cash and paid the man for the milk. The cashier took the money and walked away agitatedly. I began crying. "Rick, find your own way home, you jerk," the other man said, and the bully ran off. "I'll pay for your milk, don't worry about it," he told me, and I stopped crying, and shook my head.
"Okay," I squeaked, and he smiled at me.
"My name's Will," he said holding out his hand for me to shake.
"Elske," I say and take his hand to shake.
Ever since then we've been like two peas in a pod, Will and I.
Now Nick is a whole different story.
He is my ex boyfriend. But he played me. He was the most intimate I had ever gotten with in any of my past relationships. I had trusted him, but I shouldn't have. After he had gotten what he wanted from me, he tossed me to the side like an old piece of garbage. Anyway, that's the deal. I guess since that has taken up a good portion of this chapter I should probably get back to the story.
Chapter Three
Will and I stayed on the rooftop for a while. We left when the owners came up and told us they were closing down. So we ended up leaving after dark.
We headed back to my apartment. Will and I were walking there, when Will suddenly grabbed my hand. At first I didn't realize we were holding hands. That is until he gave it a comforting squeeze. I looked over at him, and smiled mildly.
"What's the matter?" Will asked sensing something was wrong.
"Nothing," I sigh. "Just a little tired."
"Are you sure?" he persisted.
"Yeah, just a long day."
"I'm kind of tired myself, actually." Will told me.
"Do you want to crash at my place tonight?" I asked him.
"Sure," he said. "I'd like that."
We walked the rest of the way in silence, just enjoying each others company. When we reached the building, and walked inside, the man behind the counter gave us a look, but didn't say anything. He was used to Will by now.
We entered the flat.
"I'll take the couch. You can have the bed," I said. I knew he was about to argue with me, so I cut him off before he started. "I don't feel like bickering about right now, Will. I put a fresh sheet on this morning."
"Okay," he agreed, knowing he wouldn't win anyhow. "I'll see you in the morning," he said.
"You too," I said. "Good night."
"'Night."
As soon as my head hit the pillow that night, I was out. About twelve thirty A.M., I began having a nightmare. I tossed and turned, sweat beading itself on my forehead.
I was walking, and walking and walking. Through a pit of nothingness. All of a sudden, a surrounding presented itself around me. And with that surrounding, Nick appeared.
"Nick! What are you doing here," I screamed, recognizing the surroundings as an alleyway.
"I'm here for you," he said simply.
"What do you mean? We're over."
"I'm not here to win your heart again. I'm here to get what I want from you."
"You never won my heart," I spat. "I never loved you. And I never should have trusted you."
"Too bad for you, you did," he sneered.
"What do you want from me?" I whimpered. "Why can't you just leave me alone?"
"I'm here to relieve some sexual tension between us," he replied huskily.
"So you're here to rape me?" I said with more confidence then I had.
"Only if you refuse to cooperate," he said. "I'd rather not rape you, but if that's what it comes down to then that's what it'll have to be."
"Well, I'd never have sex with you. You hear me? Never!"
"Wrong answer." He began shredding my clothing and for some reason I couldn't fight him. I was crying. Tear stained cheeks, continually being stained. I struggled for control and screamed for him to stop. Somewhere along the line, he had shed his clothes and was positioning himself painfully at my entrance.
"Please, Nick! Please Don't," but he wouldn't listen to me. "Please! Stop!" But he wouldn't. He shoved himself dangerously and painfully inside of me and didn't stop when I screamed in pain. He began shaking me all of a sudden, and started screaming my name. Only it didn't sound like him. The voice sounded distant.
"Elske!" it said. "Elske!"
"Elske!" Will said. "Come on, wake up!" I started to stir, still screaming. Yelling for help. "ELSKE!" Will screamed, even more worriedly, still shaking me. I suddenly sat up, scared to death. Will went to hug me and comfort me but I cowered away and curled into a ball, whimpering. Not realizing that it was Will. After that, Will backed off until I took in my surroundings. Once I realized where I was and who was in front of me, I began crying again even harder, and wrapped my arms around Will's neck, pulling him into a hug. He wrapped his arms around me too, and neither of us would let go. He picked me up and carried me into the bedroom, laying me on the bed. He tried to pull away to go sleep on the couch, but I apparently wouldn't have any of that. I let go of him and as he started to walk away I grabbed his hand and held it with all the strength I had. I pulled him back to me and continued crying.
"Will," I cry out. He waits a moment, to see if I'll say more. When I don't he sits down on the bed with me, and squeezes my hand back to let me know he was still there.
"What is it? What happened?" he asked. I began crying again.
"Will," I began. "Will, can you promise me something?"
"Anything, Elske. Anything at all," he said to me.
"Never leave me," I said. "Never leave me alone."
"Never. I won't. Not ever," he agreed. "I'm just going to go sleep on the couch, okay?"
"No. Stay," I said, desperate. "Don't leave me alone," I cry again. He walks over to the other side of the bed and lies down beside me.
"I promise," he held me until I fell back to sleep. And for once in a long time I fell asleep feeling safe, in the arms of my best friend.
In the morning, I woke up in my bed. At first I wondered how I got there. My thoughts wandered to last night. I suddenly remembered how I got there. I smiled and rolled over to greet William. But he wasn't there. I began panicking. I jumped out of bed. I ran into the next room, which was attached to a small kitchen. In which William was cooking a hearty breakfast. Enough for the both of us.
"What's this?" I ask.
"It's breakfast," Will answered, putting a few slices of bacon and a pile of scrambled eggs on a plate putting them in front of me. He went to the fridge, pulling out the ketchup and setting it on the table in front of me.
"Thanks," I said. "A lot."
"No problem," Will said, just as toast popped up from the toaster. He grabbed them out and buttered a piece and adding grape jam. He placed it on my plate, and then dished himself a bit of everything, sitting across from me on the counter. I smiled over at him. "Feeling better?" he asked. My smile quickly faded, remembering my dream.
"I was," I stated.
"I'm sorry," William apologized, looking down at his plate.
"It's alright," I said. "What happened?"
"What do you mean?" Will asked.
"When you woke me up," I said simply.
"Well, I woke up when I heard you screaming," he started, looking up at me nervously. "And I came out and saw you thrashing around on the couch, screaming, crying. So, I ran over to you and kept trying to wake you up," he looked back down at his dish, picking at his food. "When you finally woke up you," he hesitated.
"I tried to get away from you?" I asked.
"Yeah. And then I picked you up and carried you to the bed, and," he stopped.
"When I woke up this morning, and you weren't there with me, I," I paused. "I got scared."
"I'm sorry," Will said earnestly. "I just figured you'd want breakfast."
"I appreciate it," I said dipping my scrambled eggs in more ketchup before placing it in my mouth.
"Do you want to talk about it?" Will asked.
"No, William. I do not want to talk about it."
"Using full names now, huh?" Will asked offended. "After last night?"
"What about last night?" I snapped.
"You made me promise not to leave you. You made me sleep in the bed with you."
"Yeah, and now I'm making you drop the subject, Will." He stood up from his stool, setting his empty plate in the sink.
Walking back to the bar, he looked me straight in the eye and said, "Maybe I'd better go then."
"Maybe you should," I responded. And with that Will walked toward the door, only glancing back once to see if I would follow him. And when I didn't budge, he opened the door and left, slamming it shut behind him. I was debating whether or not to go after him, when my telephone rang.
"Hello," I said on the verge of tears.
"Hi Elske," Nick hissed on the other side. "Long time no see."
As soon as I recognized the voice on the other end I hung up the phone, and made my snap decision to go after William.
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