Adrian kept walking, the bun in his left hand and the cat nestled comfortably in his right arm. The evening air was crisp, the cold biting at his skin, but he didn't mind. The abandoned city had a way of making him feel alive, connected to something larger than himself. It was strange, though, seeing that woman, Elena, in this desolate place. As far as he knew, the city had been deserted since he was five, and now, at sixteen, he had grown accustomed to its quiet solitude.
His birthday had passed just eleven days ago. He had spent it alone, save for the company of his cat. It was July 31st now, and the memory of his solitary celebration lingered. At least he had the cat, the city, and himself, he mused with a wry smile.
Perched atop a gentle rise, the Evergreen Manor loomed ahead—a blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. The warm stucco walls and rich wooden accents gave the home an earthy, inviting presence. Expansive windows and a striking circular opening lent it an airy, contemporary feel. Despite the area's abandoned look, this was where Adrian lived, a tranquil sanctuary amidst the overgrown foliage.
Reaching the door, he finished off his bun, the last morsel disappearing as he heard footsteps behind him come to a halt. Sighing, he turned around, petting the cat. His eyes narrowed in annoyance as he saw Elena standing there once more.
"Are you seriously following me?" he asked, his tone edged with irritation.
Elena stepped forward, her determined expression unwavering. "I told you, Adrian. I need your help. They've taken my sister. I have no one else to turn to."
Adrian shook his head, his frustration evident. "I already told you, I'm not interested."
She took another step closer, desperation clear in her eyes. "Please, Adrian. I'm begging you."
Adrian sighed, his patience wearing thin. "You don't get it, do you? I'm done helping people. Find someone else." He turned away, heading for the door.
"Adrian, wait!" Elena called out, but he ignored her, pushing the door open and stepping inside. The cat purred softly in his arms as he closed the door behind him, locking it with a decisive click.
Inside, the manor was a comforting mix of familiar scents and warmth. He set the cat down, running a hand through his tousled hair. Why couldn't she understand? He wasn't a hero. Not anymore. He had his reasons for staying away, for keeping to himself. He didn't need anyone disrupting his life, especially not with desperate pleas for help.
As he settled into his usual spot by the window, he watched Elena through the glass. She stood there for a moment, her shoulders slumping in defeat before she finally turned and walked away. Adrian sighed, leaning back and closing his eyes. It wasn't easy to turn her away, but he had to protect himself. He couldn't afford to get involved.
The cat jumped onto his lap, nuzzling against him. "It's just you and me, buddy," he murmured, stroking its fur. "And that's the way it has to be."
He glanced at the city outside, its abandoned streets and silent buildings a stark contrast to the turmoil he felt inside..