Charles' POV
I pressed the door bell twice and knocked on the door heavily a couple of times but no one answered. I was sure this was the right place. She might've not been home yet, so I decided to stand in front of Ellery's apartment, or whatever you call this hellhole, and wait for her.
The place was filthy, from the wall to the ceiling and to the floor. There was gum on the floor that turned black because so many people have stepped on it. I swear saw a huge rat ran by a few minutes ago.
I don't even know why I showed up here. I just needed a place to go to, a place that's not empty, and be with someone, anyone. Anyone but family and friends. I needed a break from them and their constant need of attention and questions.
I saw a small middle aged lady walked up the stairs and looked at me. "Are you waiting for someone?" She asked me out of nowhere.
"Yes, I'm waiting for Ellery. Do you know if she is in or where she is right now?"
"I don't, but I can give her a call."
Call her? Why didn't I think of that? So much for being smart.
"Thank you." I smiled politely.
She nodded and went on to dial Ellery. They talked for about a minute or two. I noticed that every few seconds, the lady, would look up at me and say something into the phone.
"Elle said she'll be home in a few minutes."
The conversation ended with me thanking her as she opened the door to her apartment.
Elle, short for Ellery. Nice and simple, but sweet.
Ellery came up the stairs a few minutes later carrying a full bag of groceries. "Can I ask why you are here? How do you even know where I live?"
"I have records of everyone's addresses. I just wanted to stop by to say hello."
"That's not creepy at all. You've said hello, now you can go on your way."
"I'm hungry." I lied. I wasn't hungry, I was starving. I could eat an entire plate of pasta or a whole bowl of rice right now.
"So? What am I supposed to do? Cook you food?" She snickered.
"My housekeeper is out of town until Monday and my mother lives too far away. I also don't eat out often." I added.
"Wait a second. Didn't you have lunch with Ms. Adams?" Ellery said looking confused.
"No." I replied, sounding ticked.
"Why do I have to be the one to cook for you? What is in it for me?"
Not knowing what to say, I quickly replied "it is is a surprise."
"I'm not a big fan of surprises, but fine." She said "I'll cook you food but all I have is spaghetti."
"Sounds good to me."