Page 6 of A Dark Infinity

As I weave through the throngs of people, my thoughts inevitably drift to my father—my constant source of motivation and inspiration. Ever since his illness took a turn for the worse, the burden of caring for him has weighed heavily on my shoulders. The mounting medical bills, coupled with my own financial struggles, have left me feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.

But with the prospect of securing a job at Infinity Solutions, a glimmer of hope ignites within me—a flickering beacon of light amidst the darkness. This job could be the lifeline my dad needs, providing us with the financial stability and security we so desperately crave.

As I finally reach the bus stop, I allow myself a moment of quiet reflection, the cool breeze carrying away some of the tension that has knotted in my shoulders. With a determined resolve, I wait for the bus, the weight of the interview still lingering heavily on my mind.

Ever since the attack last week, I’ve been taking the bus to and from my destinations. The incident left me shaken in so many ways I couldn’t keep justifying the few dollars I saved by walking. The bus also has the added bonus that I never feel my stalker’s eyes on me here.

When the bus finally arrives at my stop, I step off and make my way towards my apartment building. As I approach, I notice a man standing outside, dressed in a sharp suit that seems out of place in the rundown neighborhood.

“Excuse me,” the man says as I approach. “Are you Lark Parker?”

Surprised, I nod. “Yeah, that’s me.”

The man offers me a warm smile. “I’m the new landlord, Jack Thompson,” he explains.

Why does his name sound so familiar? “Oh, right,” I say, nodding. “Doris mentioned you when I ran into her.”

“I’m glad. It’s important you know who’s managing the building you live in.” He pauses briefly and gives me a strange look. “I’ve been meaning to speak with you. Due to some necessary renovations, everyone in the building will need to relocate temporarily.”

My heart sinks at the news. “But I can’t afford to move,” I protest. “I barely make enough to cover rent as it is.”

The landlord nods sympathetically. “I understand, which is why we’ve arranged temporary housing for all the tenants while the renovations are underway. We’ll take care of everything, including moving your belongings.”

Relief washes over me as I process the landlord’s words. “Thank you,” I murmur, feeling a weight lift from my shoulders.

The landlord smiles kindly. “Of course. I’ll need you to pack your necessities, and we’ll take care of the rest. I can drive you to your new place if you’d like.”

Grateful for his offer, I nod. “Yes, please. That would be wonderful.”

The new apartment turns out to be surprisingly luxurious. As I step inside, I can’t help but gasp at the modern furnishings and sleek design. It’s a far cry from my old, dilapidated apartment.

“It’s beautiful,” I breathe, taking in my surroundings with wide eyes.

The landlord smiles proudly. “I’m glad you like it. You’ll find everything you need here, and more.”

As I make my way to the bedroom to start unpacking, I notice a small black velvet box sitting in the center of the bed. My heart skips a beat as I approach, my curiosity piqued.

“What’s this?” I wonder aloud, picking up the box and carefully opening it.

Inside, nestled on a bed of velvet, is a delicate gold necklace, adorned with a single lark pendant. A chill runs down my spine as I realize the significance of the gift.

My stalker knows I’m here.

4

Ethan

It’slate,farlaterthan I’d like to admit, and yet I find myself still in the office. My mind refuses to let go of Lark, her presence lingering in the air like an intoxicating fragrance. She’s tempting, in every sense of the word. Perfectly imperfect. A contradiction that both challenges and entices me. And most importantly, she’s mine. She doesn’t know it yet, but she will.

For the last month, I’ve stalked her from the shadows, and showed up in the most unlikely places just to get a glance at her. Twice she’s almost walked into me, but she was always in too much of a rush to notice me. But that’s okay, because until now, it’s best she hasn’t noticed me. It would be hard to explain some of the places I’ve followed her.

Then again, now that I’ve met her, I don’t care about anything else. What does it matter if I’ve been spotted outside her rundown shit place of an apartment? Or that I’ve broken into said shit place and hidden cameras? It was all needed at the time.

My Little Bird deserves better; which is why I bought the building and the one she’s been moved into. The second purchase took a bit longer, fucking stubborn owner needed more convincing. So I had to get some emergency renovations going until I could move her. Not that it matters now. She’s exactly where I want her, and come Monday, she’ll be in my office.

I’ve been patient and now it’s almost time for my reward. Lark is about to find out that there’s no escaping me.

As I sit at my desk, surrounded by the quiet hum of the empty office, my thoughts drift back to the interview. The small room I chose specifically to unsettle her. It’s not our usual work environment, but a calculated choice on my part. I thrive on discomfort, on seeing how people react when they’re pushed out of their comfort zones.

---