Severin Macer's Story

Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Date: Friday, September 17, 2013
Time: 8:21 P.M.
Temp: 74 F

The night was cool, breezy with the faint smell of saltwater. The rain had finally let up after three hours of nonstop sprinkling. By this time of the day the waves have calmed, but the tiding waves continue to cascade onto the bed of sand. Occasionally soaking a bolder or two. Honolulu is one the largest cities Hawaii has to offer, populated by many. Just under half a million believe it or not. So many different diversities intermix here but the culture remains rich. Visitors seemed to think the palm trees, clear beaches and warm weather hints to paradise. Some think of it as a sub-unit of Hawaii's paradise. The residents might say different. Contrary to belief... it rains a lot. Earthquakes aren't uncommon. Volcanic eruptions are nothing new although they are a not a threat, some are even made into visitor attractions. But that's on the outer skirts of town.

Bright luminescent lights braze the City. Large buildings loom over the streets of Honolulu. Though one building stands tall. Taller than the rest. Kohana Creek. It's one of those places that everyone knows about, seen or wishe they could live there. The tranquil environment is enough to draw any one in. Being right off the coast of the beach. The landlord Keilani Fergosa has spent o]over half of her life keeping this place in order. Going above and beyond to keep the tenants happy. But something tragic has happened. The wonderful woman that many knew well had a secret -- a secret she kept to herself for many years. Keilani Fergosa had developed lung cancer in her fifties. The doctors did all they could for the poor woman. And for a few short years things started to look up. Until just recently. Ms. Fergosa had been having problems with breathing. Her son, Ono took her to the doctor only to find the cancer once again spreading. Sadly, the doctors gave her only one year to live. She fought, and pushed out another two years but one night. Her heart gave out. The cancer had spread and Ms. Fergosa could no longer fight any more. Cancer had won.

Her son Ono found her a few days later, lying in bed. He debated telling the tenants but decided to keep things private until further notice. Ms. Fergosa also didn't tell anyone that she had been in a dispute between a wealthy man who wanted to buy Kohana Creek from her. This man, Alan Westbrook personally came to Hawaii to do what his lawyers couldn't. He'd admit she was a stubborn old woman, but he offered millions. Still she resisted.

But her deteriorating health made her reconsider what was best for her family and tenants -- friends. She knew if she died, her son Ono would be to busy to look after the complex properly. It saddened her that she couldn't keep it in the family. That building remained in the Fergosa name since she was a young girl. But the offer of money meant Ono would be taken care of and Mr. Westbrook assured he would do his best to keep everything the same.

Luckily for Mr. Westbrook, all the paper work had been finalized a day before her death. An unfortunate event for everyone... But they will soon learn that Keilani Fergosa had secrets.

And the tenants will soon learn.

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We all have secrets. Whats yours?

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Giselle Torres had lived on the twenty-third floor for nearly four years. It was home and she never dreamed of leaving anytime soon. Things were quiet, peaceful and over all a great place to live. These sort of thoughts usually swirl her head around this time. Her lease was almost up, much like the other tenants which meant signing up for another year would permanently decide her future. But who would want to leave in the first place. Close to the beach, gym, pools, laundry room. If it were possible to sign a three year lease she would.

Coming back from her thoughts, the woman saw that Finding Nemo had just ended. It was always so nice to watch this movie. Not only does it teach kids a valuable lesson of never going against your parents but Dori made her laugh every time. Little Hope had been sitting Indian style with her chin resting in the palms of her hands. Clearly deeply involved in the movie. Elle glanced down at her watch. 8:30 P.M. And just that time to start cooking dinner.

"Okay... how about you find us something else to watch while I... order something. Take out sound good?"

She unlocked the screen of her cell phone and began to hit the contact button. Chong's had been programmed in her phone since the day she moved here. They had the best Chinese food in town. And they were conveniently close so delivery was available. Elle recited the order, occasionally Hope would say what she wanted only to change it seconds later. But at last, the food was ordered and should be there in an hour.

"Did you find anything?" The brunette kneeled beside Hope as she skimmed through the movie collection. "How about this, The Lion King?" Before she could hear Hope's answer, a sound of movements from the door caught her attention. A small thud could be heard. It couldn't have been the delivery guy, or Piper or Ava. They always usually text before coming over.

"Hold that thought little one."

Setting the DVD down on the floor, Giselle went over to the door. She peered through the peephole but didn't see anyone. However, a paper attached to the door across from her caught her attention. Being somewhat curious and nosy all at once caused her to open the door. The first thing she saw was the own similarly formatted paper tapped to her door as well. She immediately went to snatch the paper off, her hazel hues scanning over the words.

"Dear Tenant,

As the landlord, I would like to inform you that a meeting for the floors 20-23 are called. The meeting will take place in the lobby tomorrow 9/18/13 at 8:30 A.M.. Very important news and information will be given so I strongly urge everyone to attend. Please take this note seriously. If you happen to miss the meeting for whatever reason then I advise you to either ask a fellow neighbor or visit the desk by Monday 9/20/13. Thank you everyone.

In regard, your Landlord.

Giselle flipped over the back but found it blank. Glancing down the hall, she heard a ding at the elevator which meant someone had just entered. All of the other doors also had noted on them. A text message was soon sent to her niece.

-Hey, Piper. Where are you? I just got some weird letter from Keilani about a meeting. Check your door when you get home-

The woman put her phone away and retreated back to her warm apartment. Giselle went into the hall where the AC/ heating tabs where. The temperature hadn't went up one degree since she turned the air on nearly an hour before they starting watching Finding Nemo. So she came into the living room and the saw that Hope had already put on a movie.

"Hey, kiddo. I'm gonna' go right across the hall to see if we can get this air working. I'll leave the door open." Elle smiled at the little girl. She was only going to let Mr. Granger know the air wasn't working which was no more than five feet away.

Elle left the door opened as she said earlier and went on to Mr. Granger's door. She let her hand knock only three times. Standard. Not to many but just enough to catch his attention.

After a long day of work a man wearing a suit and tie sluggishly lumbered down the hall and to his apartment door. There was more noise and unrest than usual, but he ignored them more or less looking forward to collapsing onto his bed and sleeping the night away. Way too tired to even have any form of dinner only to settle to sleep until the next morning. Work just keeps piling and piling up on his desk every time he finish one stack another, usually taller than the other would appear. His laptop bag slung over his shoulder as the owner dropped the load onto the floor to fumble for his eyes. A quiet metallic of clicks later he inserted the right key and twisted the door handle. Only to tread on a piece of paper that he only just realized it was there, with movements like a laggard he picks up the piece of paper and read with his tired eyes. Once the message sunk in it a look of confusion cross his face. 'What in the world?... A meeting? Tomorrow morning?' With a shrug he was more eager to sleep on his warm and comfortable mattress. He closed the door behind him, toes off his shoes and hung his overcoat. The apartment was dimly lit only illuminated by a ray of moon light passing through a few windows.

Severin made his way through the kitchen using the moonlight as a means to navigate through the furniture and avoid bumping into a upright piano on the way. When he finally reached his room, he did a quick brushing of his teeth and retired back to his room where he peeled off the suit, and slip off his tie to change into to his sleepwear. Not long did he place his phone on the bedside table, plugged it into the charger before throwing the covers over him. He ran a hand over his face as he quickly input in the password to unlock his phone, swiping through the apps of his phone with a thumb and he touched the screen to open up the text application.

-Goodnight Piper hope to see you tomorrow morning!

He pressed 'send' after he wrote the text and received a notification saying it had sent to the intended sender. With a fond smile he stared at Piper's profile picture for a few seconds and placed the phone back on the side table. His eyes stared at the ceiling until sleep overtook him sleeping peacefully after a long day of work.

The others in Giselle's flat were more inclined to ignore the strange sound. Piper was plenty happy to push the sound to the back of her mind, she guessed it was probably just someone dropping plates next door or, as Giselle had suggested, someone moving furniture.

She turned her attention fully onto the other three and, immediately had to turn back around. A grin split across her face and she forced herself not to laugh, although she was sure that the odd giggle escaped and she had to hug herself to stop her shoulders from shaking. Mathew's face was a stunning art work of bright pinks and purple, Hope's small make-up bag spilled open as she played her game with him. The man obviously possessed a hell of a lot of patience, after-all not everyone would let a little girl play dress-up on them.

Composing herself Piper turned back to the three, her grin only a small smile now. Giselle, taking pity on Mathew put a stop to the play and began to pick up the make-up. A moment later a knock on the apartment door and Giselle straightened and headed to open it. It appeared that it was Hope's mother, judging by Giselle's shout from the door and Hope's excited cry of "Mummy!" .

Left alone with Mathew in the lounge Piper didn't know where to look. Piper, trying not to make eye contact with Mathew in case she began to laugh in his face - a very real problem at the moment, followed the sounds coming from the door. She heard Giselle's footsteps as she left the entrance and went into the kitchen. She came into the lounge for long enough to say to Piper,
"It's getting late Piper, you should get home, and thanks for cleaning up, your a life savor... oh and don't forget about the meeting." . Then she was gone again, leaving Piper with the distinct feeling that she was being kicked out and avoided. Piper frowned momentarily, she had wanted to get her aunt alone to question her about her behaviour at dinner, but it appeared that she wouldn't have a chance tonight.

With a sigh Piper turned towards Mathew. Any danger of her laughing at his makeup was lost in her worry about her aunt.
"I'll see you... around." Piper fare-welled him, unsure how formal or friendly to be since really, they hadn't talked much before today. She walked through the corridor and to the apartment door. There Giselle, Hope and Charity were gathered, Giselle handing over the left-over takeaways.
Piper nodded a greeting at Charity, she didn't know the woman that well but had no reason not to be friendly. Smiling at Hope Piper gave her a little wave,
"It's been nice seeing you Charity." She told the girl before turning to her aunt. "I'd best leave now, but I'll come around before the meeting tomorrow." Piper didn't pose it as a question, she would come and visit her aunt. She was determined to get her alone and find out what was wrong with her.

With a final wave she squeezed through the door and into the corridor. It was most likely the change of atmosphere but suddenly Piper felt a wave of fatigue wash over her. A late night of assignments and early morning had finally caught up with her. Fighting back a yawn she wondered back to her apartment, pushing her keys into the lock as she reached her door. A buzzing in her pocket indicated that someone had sent her a text. As she opened the door, pushing against it with her back, she pulled the phone out of her pocket and unlocked it with a swipe of her thumb.

- -Goodnight Piper hope to see you tomorrow morning! -

A smile lit her face as she read the text from Severin. She hadn't seen him all day, a mixture of him being busy with work and she being forced to spend hours in the university library finishing her assignment.

- Night! xx - She sent back, hoping she wouldn't wake him with her text. As always when she thought of Severin a tickling of guilt pricked her consciousness. She was getting better at ignoring it but she doubted that it would ever completely leave.

Well, at least he wasn't the only person feeling awkward, Matthew thought wryly as Ms. Torres hesitated before determinedly wiped at the lipstick spread on and around his mouth like he was some sort of clown escaped from the circus. That part was partially his own fault from when he'd attempted to wipe it away earlier, but that was neither here nor there. He wished that he had thought to suggest that he clean himself up, but with the deed nearly done, it was too late to voice any resistance. The faint odor of make-up remover wafted up from his mouth from the doused cotton ball, an almost comforting scent. It reminded him of the bathroom he'd shared with his sisters, how they never remembered to put the lid back on the bottle of make-up remover and the countless times they or he had accidentally knocked it over, dousing the sink. Then again, it also reminded him of Miranda, so that was a bit of a double-edged sword, wasn't it?

At this proximity, Matthew wasn't quite sure where he was supposed to look without looking incredibly awkward. His eyes trailed around the bathroom past Ms. Torres' head, trying to find something to occupy himself as she swiped away the red surrounding his lips. Unavoidably his gaze fell back on her and, given their close distance, he could really see how exhausted she looked. Maybe it was because the week was officially over and she'd spent it looking after children, maybe she was stressed about something- whatever it was, she looked as if she needed a good night's sleep at least, maybe a weekend of relaxation. He didn't say anything, though. It wasn't exactly his place to give advice to someone so put together while he was just... Well, Matthew, the maintenance man. The ex drug addict. The awkward, lonely guy in apartment 1100.

"There. All done." He had to hold in a relieved sigh as she finally backed away, a smile that he couldn't quite tell if it was just polite or friendly stretched across her lips. Matthew straightened up then, backing away from the sink himself. Now, he thought, was the time to go. He no longer looked like an experimenting drag queen and could leave with his head held high(well, metaphorically speaking; his posture was atrocious). He trailed behind Ms. Torres, barely keeping in the yawn that threatened to escape his lips. Oh. He was tired. It was a sudden sort of revelation. He'd been so caught up in his own thoughts and little problems that he hadn't even noticed the exhaustion from today slowly crawling over him, urging him to rest.

Which was why he surprised even himself by accept Ms. Torres offer of a beer. Hadn't he just been thinking about returning to his room and heading off to bed? Whatever the reason, here he was now, settled on Ms. Torres' couch as she flipped through the channels. He took a sip, the once familiar burn trickling down his throat followed by a brief bit of pleasure. He didn't often indulge in alcohol, too intent on keeping himself in the right frame of mind, keeping in control, but he'd have a drink with Simon every once in a while. So maybe that was the reason he was able to keep up small talk with Ms. Torres- no, Elle, he mentally corrected after she'd verbally done so at least three times. It was just like having a drink with a friend.

As the night trailed on, his own tiredness began to take over, his head lolling back onto the couch as they finished some show he'd never seen and would probably never watch again. His eyes fluttered shut and his breathing began to even out, so maybe it was no surprise that he hardly noticed the warm presence that was slowly becoming closer and closer. If anything it made him sleepier, the added warmth lulling him to sleep.

He woke up at around four in the morning, a time broadcasted by the DVR under the television which was playing some sort of infomercial now about some sort of blender or something. He blinked tiredly, entertaining the idea of getting off of his couch and making the short walk to his bed when he realized something. This wasn't his couch, far too modern and un-plush, even if that wasn't a word. Then he realized something else. This wasn't his apartment. This couldn't be his apartment because it did not look like his apartment at all. This was Ms. Torr- Elle, his mind sleepily supplied- Elle's apartment. Which was when he noticed a third thing. There was someone on his lap. His neighbor's head was using his lap as a pillow, her long hair spread out across his legs. It took every ounce of self-control not to let out a yelp of surprise or throw himself off of the couch or something because this wasn't right. Nope. Not at all. They were barely even friends at this point, and he was pretty sure that you had to be pretty damn good friends to sleep on each other like this.

His mind was certainly awake now and he was subsequently wracking it for ideas and plans to act out. He could always go back to sleep or, no, wait! He could pretend to be asleep and "accidentally" wake her up and let her move or something. But, no, that wasn't exactly nice and if he, the guy who had been single for the past few years, found this awkward, he could only imagine how someone who'd just broken up with her boyfriend would feel about this. He stayed there for a moment, staring blankly at the television screen. The infomercial was about knives now, somehow more special than the rest. He let out a quiet sigh. Well, going back to sleep wasn't an option for multiple reasons now.

So, instead, he gently lifted Giselle's head, careful not to tug at her hair, as he slid out from under her before sliding a pillow into place as a welcome substitute to his lap. He thought about leaving then, but some kind(to Giselle, not to him) part of his mind kept urging him to do something more. So he did.

When Matthew finally slipped out the door into the hallway- thankfully void of any living soul lest it look like he was taking the walk of shame which would be unfortunate for both himself and Giselle- the television was turned off, a neatly folded blanket that he'd found in the living room spread over the sleeping woman, and a note was left on the back of the paper that had been taped to her door for the meeting.



The next day, Matthew woke up at 7:30 to his screeching alarm clock which he silenced with a well-placed smack. He groaned slightly, neck sore from when he'd fallen asleep in Giselle's couch- there was no use ignoring that last night had happened, it was a fact of life now. He took a quick shower, got dressed, had a leisurely breakfast of sweet, warm tea with lemon and toast with raspberry jelly, and relaxed, gradually waking up. He sighed as his eyes trailed over the the clock. It was 8:20 now, he may as well head down to the lobby for the meeting with Keilani.

The lobby was empty when he came down which was unsurprising given that it was a Saturday morning and anyone who would be going out this early was already gone, and anyone else was still in their apartments. He settled in one of the comfortable chairs, stifling a yawn. He hadn't exactly gotten much sleep the night before. Now he just had to wait for the tenants of the 20-23 floors to arrive and for this show to get on the road.

Piper Torres

For the first time in weeks Piper woke up naturally, not to the buzzing of her early morning alarm clock. The soft light of morning streamed through the small gap in her curtains and fell onto her bed. Stretching in bed she cuddled the blankets around her for another moment, enjoying the warmth of her bed. It wasn't often that she got to sleep in but with an assignment just handed in and nothing immediately due for university she was going to make the most of it. It was a pity that she couldn't go back to sleep, but once awake Piper often found it hard to return to her dreams.

When she finally got up she opened her curtains, blinking at the sudden burst of light. The sun was warm and Piper let a small smile play across her lips. Turning back her bed Piper automatically checked her phone, which was lying on her bedside table. No texts. She shrugged and lazily walked into her lounge. There she spotted the note on her table, lying with the books and bag that she had dumped yesterday. As she took in the note sh suddenly remembered its contents and the meeting. Piper jumped towards the note, smoothing it out to read the meeting time, Lobby at 8.30am. She glanced at her wall clock to see that it was already 8.00am.
"Shit. Shit. Shit." She muttered to herself.
Worried that she would be late Piper ran back into her room, grabbed a towel and rushed into the bathroom. She quickly washed herself, only rinsing her hair due to the time limit. Then, finally out of the shower she dressed in the first outfit that she could find, a pair of denim shorts and a loose jumper. It was casual and her hair was still wet but given that she had to be down in the lobby in two minutes it would have to do.

Picking up her phone and keys and stuffing them into her pockets Piper raced out of her apartment. She paused outside of Severin's room, wondering if she should knock and wait for him. She pulled out her phone again and checked the time, it wasn't quite 8.30am yet.
"Sev!" Piper called, rapping on his apartment door. "Are you in there? We've got a meeting with Keilani in the lobby."
He could already be down there, or sound asleep. If she didn't hear anything from his apartment in the next few minutes than she could always make her own way down to the meeting and text him.

(that morning)

The slightly dishevel dark haired man was woken up by a knock at his apartment door, a small groan left his lips as he turned over his back facing the window to the bedside table. That voice...sounds like... "P-piper?" he called out from his bedroom which he knows sounded extremely faint since he was so far away from the door. He started rubbing his eyes using his best...just woken up effort to keep awake. When he was able to focus his eyes at is digital clock it read...8:05 he wondered why would Piper wake him up. That was when he heard her say 'We got a meeting with Keilani in the lobby'. Uh? That is when it hit him, the lobby meeting at 8:30! "Christ!" Quickly pushing the covers away from his body and checked the time for the second time it read 8:09. Dragging his tired body out of bed to the bedroom and into the bathroom.

He shuts the door behind him and grabs a cup from the sink and filled it with mouthwash, he would had brushed his teeth but at a time like this he would rather suffer the burning rather than arriving there late. After their fourth risen that was spat down the drain he check for any stubble at the mirror, a moment later he did a quick washing of his face to get rid of the tiredness from his facial features. For now he won't look like he just woken up from bed and....hopefully Piper won't see him like this again she really hadn't seen him this unkempt for...awhile.

Within a few minutes he snatched a pair of sweats and a plain white t-shirt. In the meanwhile Severin stumbled his way through furniture in his apartment because he was a still he completely stopped as realization took over him, he forgotten his phone. Letting out a small groan since he's just at the door, he quickly retraced his step to his bedroom and snatch his mobile device from the bedside table disconnected from its charger. A text notification alerted him but with a quick swipe of a thumb he read Piper's text from last night, with a small smile he pocketed his phone and quickly walked to the door. Severin slipped on his shoes and wrenched the door open. At the sight of Piper, a wide smile crossed his lips his days always seem brighter every time he sees her though...he really did wished he would stop disappointing her from the past couple of canceled dates. Hopefully after this extremely busy month he can finally catch a break by taking a few days off. For now though he wondered what that meeting was going to be about. "Good morning Piper." he greeted with his usual bright tone leaning against the doorway a little brushed his long bangs out from his eyes. Given the time to be prepared he did not have his hair combed to...look his very best. "Are we heading down there right now?"

Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Date: Saturday, September 18, 2013
Time: 8:22 A.M.
Temp: 72 F

Slowly Sebastian's heavy lids fluttered wildly before opening to welcome the blazing sunlight. He suffered from cotton mouth and one of the worst headache known to man. The only comfort he felt was the softness of his pillow. Glancing around his partly messy room confirmed his terrible night, being that he'd woken up alone instead of waking up next to some random chick he would have met the night before. After leaning up in his bed, shirtless, Sebastian scratched a lazy hand through his golden locks while releasing a sigh. It was then the memories came crashing back with his stem partially clear. The more he scratched, the more the events of last night became acknowledged.

Of course he remembered leaving Eloise's apartment, her and the little nutcase acting as if he were the bad guy. Why? Simply because he wanted his belongings returned to him. But the realization that Eli spat in his face had did little to soothed his aching head. In fact it made him that much more angry because there was really nothing he could have done with Andrew being in the room. Sebastian subconsciously bit into his bottom lip harshly the longer he thought about it, until the tinge of pain followed by the metallic taste of warm blood began to pool in his mouth. "Shit." He cursed, lifting himself from bed and returning to the master bathroom.

He flipped on the knobs to faucet and brought his hands together to gather up some water. Sebastian swished the cool water around in his mouth before spitting out the rosy-colored water. The next thing he did was gather up some cold water and splashed it into his face. It was a relieving feeling that overall left him refreshed. Moving back into his bedroom and into the living room brought him to the note he snatched angrily off the door last night. It was slightly torn from where he ripped it at the point where the tape started. At first he wasn't going to read it but his curiosity was piqued, so he picked up the paper in a way that he could hold both pieces to make reading it comprehensible.

"Dear Tenant,

As the landlord, I would like to inform you that a meeting for the floors 20-23 are called. The meeting will take place in the lobby tomorrow 9/18/13 at 8:30 A.M.. Very important news and information will be given so I strongly urge everyone to attend. Please take this note seriously. If you happen to miss the meeting for whatever reason then I advise you to either ask a fellow neighbor or visit the desk by Monday 9/20/13. Thank you everyone.

In regard, your Landlord.

Sebastian turned his face in confusion. The old woman had never called a 'group' meeting like this in the past. Not that he didn't respect her he just found it relatively not in his interest to attend. Although considering she had never did this before in the past also alerted Sebastian in a odd way. Perhaps the important changes would pertain to him, even so, he could rarely think about Eli without hurting himself let alone be in the same room. But overall. he decided he wouldn't let that disgusting woman stop him from making his presence known around the complex. With that in mind, Sebastian tossed the note back onto the table and headed back into the bathroom to clear his head in a frore shower.

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After brushing his teeth, Sebastian headed back into his bedroom with his towel wrapped lowly around his lips. Glaring over to his alarm clock revealed it to be 8:22 A.M. He didn't mind showing up late, surely the old woman would start regardless of missing tenants. Sebastian slid open his closet door and rummaged through the racks. A pair of fitted dark blue jeans, an olive-colored v-neck T-shirt were eventually chosen. And after he got dressed, the young man headed into the kitchen where he grabbed himself a bottle of water and nearly guzzled down the entire bottle. Sebastian then grabbed his keys from the rack near the front door, through on a dark beige over-sized beanie and slipped on a pair of beige Vans before heading out.

He quickly locked everything up, dropped his keys back into his pocket and sauntered down the hall where he saw Piper. Sebastian stopped for a moment as he took his time in staring her down. There was never any doubt in his mind that she was beautiful, more beautiful than any other woman he had been smitten with aside from Elosie but that was another story. Piper was just something something he could never truly have, even though technically he 'had' her once. Severin was his best friend, almost like a brother and there he was lusting after his woman. Maybe Sebastian was more humanely interested in the challenge she posed, the taboo-matured diorama. But he knew it was time to snap out of his sinful behavior. So, instead of making a salacious comment, he settled for a simple. "Morning, Piper." His voice somewhat calm and temperate. Which was odd regarding his usual snarky self. The young man glanced over to Severin's door as he thought of something endearing to say, but he he found...nothing. The sound of the door opening from up ahead pushed him along quicker. "Good morning Piper." Sebastian leaned his head against the wall and continued to listen to Severin talk. "Are we heading down there right now?" "Yeah, man. Let's go... don't wanna keep the misses waiting." Sebastian concluded before making his way towards the elevator, his sight slightly obstructed by the viewing of Giselle exiting her apartment. Without hiding his attempt, he let his fall over her clavicle and cleavage region. Probably the favorite-est part of the female body for him. However, the show only lasted a few seconds since he had by that time reached the elevators.

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At the ding of the elevator, the doors slid open revealing the wall leading into the lobby. He hadn't been expecting more than three or four people but once he stepped into the lobby, seeing about ten or so surprised him. Sebastian sifted through the people with his eyes, among them were a few familiar people. The weird maintenance man seated in the sofa. There was always something about Mathew that warranted him, however he couldn't place a finger on it. Sitting only a few feet away was the last person he desired to see. He simply rolled his eyes and continued into the lobby. He decided to take one of the empty seat of the near brown colored chairs. "Well, this is a blast." Sebastian mumbled under his breath.

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Piper was just about ready to give up on her boyfriend when she heard a faint call coming from inside,
"P-piper. Piper smiled, he sounded half asleep. No doubt he had been sleeping, he had got back late last night after all. Piper contented herself with waiting in the corridor. She could hear the noises of Sev getting ready inside, no doubt he wouldn't be long.

Movement down the corridor caught Piper's attention. Eloise swept by, her eyes resolutely averted from Piper. Piper felt her brows contract in a frown as she glanced after the girl. Piper and Eloise had never had much to do with each other but there was a tension between the two. Piper got the sense that Eloise didn't like her and Piper found herself disliking Eloise in return. At least neither girl felt the need to pretend to be friends, ignoring the other person worked well for them both.

A moment later she was gone and Piper was once again alone in the corridor, until the feeling that she was being watched made her peer down the back down the corridor. Her stomach did a flip, whether from dread or excitement she couldn't tell. Sebastian Gray stood watching her,
"Morning, Piper." His greeting was not filled with the expected sarcasm or biting comment, instead it was calm.
"Sebastian." Piper managed, failing to find anything else to say. She had once found Sebastian so easy to talk to, his presence had sent thrilling chills down her back. Now she didn't want to think.

Thankfully she didn't have long to wait with Sevastion before Severin emerged, confirming Piper's previous thought that Sev had been asleep. His hair wasn't combed and he wore his casual clothes, sweats and a t-shirt. A smile of greeting spread across his face as he opened the door,
"Good morning Piper... Are we heading down there right now?"

"Yeah, man. Let's go... don't wanna keep the misses waiting." Piper couldn't tell if Sebastian's words were sarcastic or not but she was happy to watch him disappear down the corridor.
"Morning Sev." Piper said, turning back to Severin. She smiled at Sev as she tried to push thoughts of Sebastian out of her mind. Leaning forward she gave Sev a teasing peck on the cheek, "Let's go down before Keilani starts the meeting without us." She added.

"Hey, guys. Heading down?... I hope she's has good news, y'know. Something like going down on rent." Giselle's voice drifted up the corridor and Piper turned to find her Aunt making her way to the elevator. Piper followed, knowing that Sev would most likely follow. She greeted her Aunt with a cheery "Morning!" before hoping into the elevator beside her.

The elevator dinged open and Piper stepped out after her aunt. The Lobby was already filling with tenants, the seats quickly being occupied. Piper spotted Sebastian sitting in an armchair, looking bored. Piper's hand found Sev's and she turned a brilliant smile his face, pushing her guilt and the memories of that night from her thoughts.
"Where do you want to sit?" she asked Severin.

Amelia stared grimly at her reflection as she pulled her dark, wavy hair away from her face and smiled at herself grotesquely. If you asked her this was the worst possible way to start a day, having to wake up before nine, being forced to congregate with people when she didn't want to and wasting her only day off. She’d all but screamed and stomped in frustration when she got home at six that morning to find the summons on her door. She hadn't slept or eaten in hours and she felt so jittery that all she wanted to do was smoke a bowl on her balcony and eat a sandwich before taking a couple of Xanax and sleeping for twelve hours.

After toweling herself off from the quick shower she forced herself to take, Amelia quickly changed into a pair of faded jeans which hugged her long legs, a soft grey cotton t-shirt, a threadbare blue sweater which fell nearly to her knees and finished with a pair of grey boots she’d owned since she was a teenager. Mels was all about comfort and she didn't particularly care if anyone thought she looked sloppy or unprofessional. The young Latina was never one to listen to anyone’s opinion, especially not when it concerned her.

Making a quick stop at her refrigerator she grabbed a bottle of orange juice and rummaged through her messenger bag for her pill box. Deftly plucking out two blue tablets, she tossed them into her mouth and chugged the juice, letting the pill box slept back into the depths of her bag. Wiping her mouth with the back of her hand she muttered to herself “Breakfast of champions” Before throwing the now empty juice bottle in the trash and leaving her apartment.

Hopping into one of the elevators she took note of the dark circles beneath her dark brown eyes in the mirror.Good. She thought, maybe now she’d be able to skate by without too much fanfare. Hopefully she’d be able to find Giselle straight off and not have to do the whole awkward who-am-I-gonna-sit-by thing. This was solved handily when she found a solo brown chair, resembling a feline she stretched lazily and curled herself into the chair and regarded the others with a sleepy smile.

“Not too late I hope, Have I missed anything?”

Sage grumbled as his phone went off. His head was pounding him. Stumbling off the couch he checked his phone. It was from Sam. He hardly remembered what happened last night, but from his headache to his attire, to even his smell he assumed, he had been drinking once more. Groaning he'd reply.

Got a headache... I'm better...that's it...I dunno... I'll be at this mornings meeting though..

After sending the message, he'd sluggishly make his way to his medicine cabnit and take a few asprin. Brushing his teeth in the mirror, he saw his face, a bit rugged, he needed to shave that was deffinate. He couldn't let Giselle get to him. It would ruin his career...and his life. He better start looking around for someone to date. He needed to do that first. He'd jump in the shower, and at least try to wash off last night off of his skin. Stepping out he felt a bit better than he did before. He looked in the mirror once more, decided to put off shaving, and picked out some clothes. His casual comfy clothes to be exact.

After getting dressed. He made his way down to the morning meeting, his eyes scanning the room. Seeing Giselle, he'd take in a deep breath then look away as if he were looking at the other girls.

When he saw Amelia by herself in the chair. A quite comfortable chair as Sage remembered passing out on it once. He confidently and casually made his way past everyone and made some coffee. The scent of French Vanilla wafted through the air. When the coffee was done brewing, he smiled and nodded to everyone, smelled it, and walked over to Amelia. Tapping her shoulder he kneeled down and offered her the coffee. His eyes were a bit red, but anyone could assume that's from exhaustion. He was a busy man after all. "Looks like someone needs a better wakeup call." He'd say in a joking manner. Looking at everyone he'd sigh, did everyone want to come to this meeting?

Maybe he was half awake when Sebastien seemed to appear out of midair because the other did seem like he did walk through a wall to them. Either way it was business as usual other than the odd note attached to his door informing about a meeting in the lobby concerning only the 20th and 23rd floor, which is in a way weird. He never really had any problems regarding about the rent of the landlady for...months after moving here.

Severin really can't help but feel that dense atmosphere hovering over the two so he waved it off, one reason was Sebastian just woke up the wrong side of the bed this morning and second it was missing sarcasm, still not entirely awake seemed more plausible. Despite the many warning signs saying he missed more than just a few dates 'Don't want to keep the misses waiting' he rolled his eyes a little, the smile on his face held a bit of mirth. "Oh it can't be that bad."

As the words left his mouth another apartment door open and by the time he looked over for the source, Giselle had already locked her apartment door and narrowly missed his friend's stare. Not that he would blame him much about looking at another woman even he knows Piper is just as equally attractive even younger than her aunt.

With both Sebastian and Giselle disappearing from view, Piper seem to know exactly how to gain his attention back in such a short and quick response from him. He'd blush a little at the contact of her lips on his cheek. Normally he won't act like this a whole lot but she did indeed caught him off guard, not that he did not like it at all. He gave her a nod the blush fading a little after her little morning surprise. 'Hey guys. Heading down?... I hope she's has good news, y-know. Something like going down on rent.' The young man answered following the march to the elevator, "I hope so...might give most of us a break if she did." and stood next to the brunette with a less intimidating aura since he wasn't wearing his suits or displaying his hard exterior as a difficult person to appease as well.

The elevator's doors slid open, allowing the occupants to exit into the lobby. The man felt a hand took his so his own automatically intertwined with the preppy brunette. His gaze swept over to the various tenants most he hadn't personally known or met, even if he had seen them before it's just a few passes down the hallway. "We could sit there." he said pointing to a comfortable looking couch. He really didn't have much of a preference but just somewhere he could listen to the woman speaking. Where is she? However, that strange note stuck to his apartment door if that doesn't say bad news then it must be exclusive news for just the people in floor 20th and 23rd floor. Maybe a cut to the rent like Giselle says. That was when the other tenants started to flood in the lobby including his boss Blackwood, sheesh...seems like everyone woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning...

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As time marched slowly on to the meeting time, people began trickling into the lobby in varying degrees of alertness. Some seemed still damp from a rushed shower, others with bed-head and still in pajamas as they shuffled to claim some of the sparse seating like mindless zombies before their daily caffeine infusion. Matthew stayed where he was, wishing that he'd brought his phone to entertain him or, given that he didn't actually have anyone to text per-say, at least give the illusion of being social which was its own brand of depressing. Instead, he glanced around as each new arrival made their way into the room, recognizing, however vaguely, each face. There was that couple from the twenty-second floor who he'd helped with a faulty stove some time ago, the older man from the twentieth-floor who enjoyed ranting about what was wrong with today's young people whenever Matthew had to stop by... Each time someone walked fully into the room, his eyes drifted back to the floor because Heaven forbid they think he was watching them(which he was) or, horror upon horror, that he wanted to talk(which he desperately did not want to do with these people at this hour).

He was dragged forcefully from his people-watching by a sudden shift of weight on his couch. His eyes darted to the side, glancing at the couch's new occupant for just a moment before flickering back the the tiled lobby floor. Renter of apartment number 1109 and his neighbor, Eloise Pardon. It wasn't that they had ever interacted and even their brief, wordless meetings were few and far between. Still, she made him uncomfortable- that was the best way to put it, uncomfortable- from just one specific incidence, even if she probably didn't remember it. They'd been stuck in the elevator together as it rose to their floor. The journey had only been a few moments, but for Matthew it had felt like hours upon aching hours as he quickly recognized the rosy cheeks and glazed over expression, he'd even convinced himself that he could smell it on her, but that may have been his imagination overreacting and cravings he'd tried to keep at bay began to stir. He'd stayed on the phone with Simon for two hours afterwards, depressed with himself that just seeing someone who had dabbled in drugs had nearly broken his will-power.

Still, she didn't seem to want to talk and he was just fine with that. More people began to trickle in, but Matthew avoided looking up this time, instead indulging in the monotony of counting the floor tiles before him in an attempt to stave off boredom. Somewhere around the sixtieth tile, he noticed someone else walking towards the couch and forced himself to glance upwards. Seeing Ms. Torres- Elle, he corrected himself again, something he'd probably still be doing for some time- settling into the seat next to him brought on a feeling of both relief and a minute anxiety. He liked Elle, really he did, probably the best of his neighbors if only because they'd seen each other the most, but, after last night, he had no idea what to do. She didn't seem to have the same problem, however.

"Hey. Sorry for passing out last night... I was just really exhausted. I didn't even hear you leave."

His face flushed for a moment and any attempt at eye-contact on his part was instantly shut down. The comment was innocuous in meaning, but he wasn't stupid, he knew what it sounded like.

"It's, um, it's fine. Thank you for inviting me to, uh, to dinner," He stammered out, tripping over his own words. Maybe it was a deep-seeded need to be polite at least or maybe it was an attempt to clear up any misconceptions. Hopefully no one was listening in to their little conversation(really, who would?), but, still, it was the principle of the matter.

Any further attempt at conversation was thankfully cut off as the last few people filled into the room and a man near the front of the little assembly cleared his throat quite purposefully. Matthew blinked, glancing around the room. He didn't recognize this man bedecked in designer clothes. Who was he? And, more importantly, where was Keilani? The introduction was bizarre as he stared ahead, confusion in his gaze, but that slipped away instantly the moment he announced... he announced that... that...

"Keilani Fergosa, has unfortunately passed away."

It was like time had frozen for a moment, and he knew that Alan Westbrook was still talking, but he simply didn't care because Keilani was dead. She was dead, dead, dead. It was like a block of ice had been dropped into his stomach, chilling him to the bone as emotions battled with one another for dominance. Shock over the news, so sudden and unexpected, horror because he was never going to see Keilani's bright smiling face again or hear her speak, anguish because this was Keilani, one of the few people he clung to with an almost desperation and who cared about him in turn, and anxiety, crippling him for the moment. What was he supposed to do now? What was going to happen? What would he do?

He could already feel pinpricks of tears fighting to escape his eyes and it felt just like when his grandmother had died, didn't it? Like his whole world was gone, a support that he'd needed gone forever. Keilani who had given him a home, a job, a chance when no-one else would even give him a second glance. Keilani who had believed in him, who had invited him over for dinner, who talked to him like he was normal, who had nagged at him like a second mother. She was gone. Gone forever. Matthew wanted to leave now, to curl up in his bed, pull the comforter over his head, and block out the rest of the world until it was safe to come out. He wanted to hold onto something or someone and be reassured that, yes, it would be okay. He wanted- oh, God, he wanted something to numb the pain, to fill the void that had just opened up and there was only one thing he knew that could do that and he really, really shouldn't, but it was so damn tempting right now. He only just prevented himself from panicking over that little revelation as he rubbed at his eyes, wiping away budding tears. He could freak out later- well, freak out more because he was most certainly not okay even right now- but for now his new landlord(that sounded sickening, even in his thoughts) was still talking, even if Matthew didn't quite want to listen.

He took one of the obituaries in his hand, and only just noticed that he was trembling, the paper moving sporadically in his shaking hands. He tried to still them, but he could only concentrate on controlling so many things, and, as he set the paper down next to him and clasped his trembling hands together, he decided that not causing a scene was more important. Much more important. He wouldn't, couldn't expose himself like that, couldn't take away from the meeting. The battle against his tears began anew as he glanced at the pictures on the obituary, but, once more, he wiped them away and tuned back in to the man speaking.

New rent, new leases, new rules. Matthew couldn't help but hate this guy, just a little bit, for changing everything right now. Which wasn't fair, really, none of this was his fault. Then again, he thought bitterly, he might not even be here tomorrow. He was here because he had a deal with Keilani, he was her employee and this well-dressed man could just as easily terminate his job and kick Matthew to the curb. His anxiety doubled as he bit his bottom lip, clasping his hands even tighter together, only releasing them to dutifully pick up one of the sheets illustrating the new guidelines. Why bother, though? The thought was pessimistic, but Matthew considered himself a realist- why keep him around when you could hire someone without a history as sketchy as his own, who was actually trained for the job?

"Oh, and is there a Mr. Mathew Granger here, I need to speak to him privately."

Matthew's mouth suddenly went dry, making speech impossible for a moment as he pulled himself together the best he could. He could break later- would break later- but for now, he had to keep calm and carry on.... Well, until he was safely ensconced in his apartment or former apartment or whatever.

"Right, uh, right here, Mr. Westbrook. I'm- I'm Matthew Granger," He finally forced out, standing awkwardly to his feet, stuffing his still trembling hands into his jean pockets to mask the involuntary movement.

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Sage stayed by Amelia the whole time the announcement was made. A raise in rent, he was the new owner. Keilani was dead. Sage grimaced at the news. That woman was so kind and sweet to him when he first arrived. She pretty much treated him like family. Shaking his head he'd turn his attention back onto Amelia. "An Irish coffee? Guess it's 5 o'clock somewhere." He chuckled and rolled his shoulders standing up. He didn't know Amelia was a nurse. "I honestly didn't know you were a nurse....it's gotta be interesting some nights?" He'd say trying to make casual conversation with her.

He'd eye Samuel and nod his head in his direction. "Hey... I have an idea... how about I cook you lunch." He'd chuckle and give Amelia a dark smirk. "I'm a mean cook..." A raise in his brow and a cross of his arms. He really did want to get to know more about this woman. "And I do have a whole bar in my place." He'd look at Sam asking for his wing man to come up and help him.

"Let us go have a nice get together and celebrate Keilani's life." He'd say as he noticed the other tenants leaving, or standing around discussing what they had just heard. He'd make a mental note to speak with Severin later, they had some work things to do of course. But for that moment, work didn't seem important, not since a good friend of his passed away. He even didn't take note that Giselle had left, though he did see her form move from the corner of his eye. He was determined to keep his attention on the young nurse before him, and of course Sam.

Then again Sam was his friend, so there wasn't a problem there. The obituary crumpled in his hand, he didn't want to read it, though lifting the guidelines up he scoffed.These were grown men and women! Busy people! He was starting to get a bad taste in his mouth about the new owners. "Yeah... a drink would be nice." He'd say coolly.

Piper Torres

Sitting beside Severin on the couch, Piper watched with growing concern as a strange man entered and addressed the waiting tenants. He introduced himself as Alan Westbrook and indicated his wife Sasha to be the beautiful woman beside him Then he delivered the news that sent a shock through Piper's system: Keilani was dead. Piper, as with many of the Kohana Creek residents, had liked Keilani. She was always a happy presence and seemed to genuinely care for the tenants. Her death was a big schock, after all Piper hadn't even known that she was sick.

Piper numbly took an obituary and glanced at the photos. She had no appointments or deadlines to meet so of course she would go to the funeral. It was the least she could do for Keilani and her family. She felt her eyes grow watery but determinedly pushed back the tears, she didn't want to cry here in front of so many strangers.

Alan Westbrook continued speaking, breaking through Piper's shock only to deliver another blow: Their rent would be increasing. An extra one-hundred and fifty might not seep like a lot for some of the residents, but Piper was a student and only working part-time. She managed to scrap through using the money her parents' sent Giselle for her board. They still thought she was living with her Aunt after all. Piper felt her brows furrow together in a frown, she didn't want to leave Kohana. She would have to take up extra shifts at work or ask her parents for help.

Alan Westbrook continued on with further changes, rules that seemed to Piper a little strict given that all the tenants were adults or children living with their parents. That seemed entirely ridiculous, as if they were a group of rebellious teenagers in a boarding school. If Piper had wanted rules she would have gone to live in one of the university halls of residence.

"Poor Keilani, I didn't even know she was sick." Piper said to Severin. She pushed thoughts of the new rules and increased rent temporarily out of her mind. She could think on them later, right now the biggest news was really Keilani's death. "Will you be free to go to the funeral? I'd like to go." Piper added, glancing again at the obituary in her hand. She would like to attend the funeral with Severin, it would be nice to have him to lean on, but she knew with his work schedule that he might not be able to take the time off. Yes, tomorrow was a Sunday so the chances were better that he would be able to come, but Piper knew that if any work did pop up Severin would be forced to see to it, weekend or not.

Out of the corner of her eye Piper spotted Giselle leaving and making her way to the elevator. No doubt she would be attending the funeral so if Severin couldn't make it Piper would see if she could go with Giselle. Piper had never done well with funerals. She had had a childhood friend die from cancer a few years back and she had found the funeral unbearable.

At first he thinks its just 'refreshing' the rules and it was mandatory for them to hear them. Though something really did scream 'fishy' to him about the man wearing a suit...Alan and his wife Sasha. "Keilani Fergosa, has unfortunately passed away." The news had captured Severin's attention so quickly his head snapped up to Alan, hoping the other man would give out more information or at least try to absorb his other words. Very quickly he found out they were admin stuff. What annoyed him the most was the fact of how quickly he seem to 'get down to business'. The way he seemed so...well smug about it like some of the people he had encountered. He blinked a little shock to hear that news coming from such a nice day. As the pamphlet was passed to his hands, Severin murmured a word of thanks before opening it to read the obituary. Sure he had not personally knew the landlady well but enough to know she had a good heart. Through word of mouth by the other tenants most of them were kind so he thought of nothing ill about his landlady.

Then he heard Piper asking him if he would be free to attend the funeral. Giving the pamphlet another glance, he read the date and bit his tongue. God...he really should pay his respect and attend the date. Ah he might pay back for extra long hours for taking one day off, but it's important surely his boss knows that. "I think I should be able to get a day off. I might...need to tell them about this today." His hand that was still holding Piper's gave a gentle squeeze. Even if he had known Piper for not a long while, he does have a clue she needs someone to comfort her. Whether it was a faceless co-worker or a loved one. Maybe tomorrow he could finally spend some time with Piper, not the best day to catch up but it's a day he would not waste. He can try to cheer her up or at least comfort her at the funeral, be that attentive boyfriend he always been before his busy schedule had choked his free time. "Me too...she never appeared...unwell every time I saw her."

Now regarding about the 'new' rules that were placed, he quirked a eyebrow at the $150 raise for the rent. That...is surely going to affect his living already. Well there goes more of his hard earned cash. At the thought of going to work after this meeting had given him a sort of downer mood. Just because he doesn't cry right now doesn't mean he is a heartless person. Nope, everything is going to come back right at the funeral. It always has no matter who and especially it was someone extremely close to him...

Maybe he should...for today call in for a half day off, some of the work he would able to do at home anyway. A sound of movement alerted some of the tenants had started to move on to their daily lives. Needing that solace so anyone who is close to Keilani needed that time to let that information to absorb. Even he needs one, because she had such a huge impact on everyone she had encountered like keeping things peaceful here in Kohana Creek. "Things...are not going to be the same are they?" he asked Piper in a undertone, his gaze went from her face to her hands. Finding sufficient funds and strict new policy might be one of the stressful factors that might cause a change of atmosphere in the complex.

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