Project Mercy

Chapter 7

By the time I got to Natalia's apartment building the lovely sunny weather had turned into wind and drizzle, I'd made sure to keep a more watchful eye on my surroundings since the incident on the train, and so far I had no more problems since.

I slowly walk to the end of one of the corridors until I reach the correct number. As I stand in front of the door my hand balls into a fist, ready to announce my presence, but I hesitate. I never thought that I'd see her again, the moment she left I thought that was it, but here I am at her door bringing the same old crap from her past life, which she probably doesn't want.

I shake my head from my daze and subtly knock on the door where then I hold onto the straps of my backpack in a tight grip. For the first time in ages, I felt...awkward? I hate not knowing what will happen, everything is usually set out in front of me so I sort of know what's going on.

The sudden sound of various clicks catches my attention, the door slowly opens to reveal the face of my old friend, she's much taller than I remember and her facial features are much older than before. She frowns in confusion then grabs my arm, practically dragging me into her apartment while at the same time looking down the corridor for any more unwanted presences.

After the door is shut she lets go of my arm and makes work of locking the door. Many locks line the door, each one good quality and quite bulky. I guess even after years of walking freely, those paranoid habits still follow her around. I watch as she frantically fiddles with them, a look of anger and fear settled on her face.

"What the hell are you doing here?" She grumbles angrily, as she turns to face me. Her body language is stiff and unreadable. I would say that I'm surprised at her reaction but if I'm honest, I'm not. I would act the same way if someone from a past that I have completely forgotten about, turns up at my home randomly. Especially when I thought I was safe and concealed from that type of world.

"It's good to see you too Nat" I smiled softly. Her angry expression slowly started to dissipate as she watched me cautiously. " I-um... I need your help" I say rubbing the back of my neck awkwardly.