LAYLA
With trembling hands, I finally uncovered the package. And damn!
Despite my apprehension, I couldn't deny the beauty of this gift, nor the unsettling thrill.
A pocket watch. Platinum casing, diamond studded dial and intricate engravings. This watch was a literal testament to luxury. My eyes then fell on the note which accompanied the gift.
"You fill my days with thoughts of you and my nights with the dreams of your presence. Every tick of this watch echoes the rhythm of my longing for you." -Unknown.
And this watch ticks every second. Of course.
For two years, his gifts had been a constant presence in my life, a silent reminder of the shadowy figure who lurked in the depths of my consciousness.
The gifts he gave were all extravagantly expensive. So the giver must be quite wealthy.
I still couldn't find a hint of who this person could be. No police and FBI could help me with this.
I carefully placed the watch among the other gifts in the storage box.
Despite my reluctance to acknowledge his presence, I couldn't bring myself to discard them. Instead, I kept them hidden away. I was definitely not going to use these things.
I've always relied on my own efforts, I never accepted any kind of help, assistance or presents of any sort from anyone. I was most definitely not going to do it now, especially from a complete stranger.
Another main reason for preserving all these gifts is, proof. Even though no investigation centre was helpful. But I hope to find him. Someday, but I will.
I have also done an inspection of my apartment for any hidden cameras from various security companies and I do it every month. I cannot take risks. Thankfully nothing has been detected ever. Still, it has been two years since I slept peacefully. Knowing that you're being watched every now and then, that there is someone, a sinister shadow, who constantly thinks of you and thinks of the ways to get to you, it sends shivers down my spine.
Because of all this, I carry a heavy load of stress and tension, but I ensure it never surfaces outwardly. Because as a psychotherapist, it's crucial for me to maintain a calm demeanor. My expression should reassure my patients, not reflect my own stress.
Pushing the unease aside, I took a hot shower and hit the bed. The day I received any package, I lost my appetite and hardly slept.
Ah! I just hope my patients won't be scared of my dark circles tomorrow.
.....
"Hey! What's with the long face?" Amelia stood beside me while I poured myself a cup of tea in the cafeteria.
"I had a rough night." I forced a weak smile, trying not to worry her out by giving too much information.
Concern etched on her face. She leaned closer to me and whispered,
"Let me guess, Mr. Stalker strikes again?"
I let out a heavy sigh. Of course she figured it out.
"Yes. Another 'gift' awaited me when I got home yesterday."
Amelia rolled her eyes. Frustration taking over her features.
"Ugh, that guy seriously needs a hobby that doesn't involve creeping you out."
I nodded my head in agreement. My shoulders slumped with the weight of the situation.
"Honestly, I am quite freaked out."
She squeezed my hand as a sense of assurance.
"I know how you feel, but It's ok Layla. We'll find him. You're not alone in this. You don't have to be. I am here for you. If you feel uncomfortable living there you can always come and stay with me. Don't let a coward scare you, who hides behind the bushes."
"Thanks Amy! I needed the talk." I truly appreciated her. Though it hasn't been long since we met, she understands me deeply, and she's the only one I have. We met in the college in London, though we weren't that close back then, but I always wished to strike up a conversation and befriend her. Unfortunately, I never managed to.
Two years back I moved to New York and joined Lumina, where I met her again and we have become inseparable since then.
"Anytime, chica. Now, how about we grab some coffee and brainstorm ways to put this stalker in his place?" Amelia's eyes gleamed with a fiery intensity.
"Sounds good!" I gave her a small but genuine smile. She patted my shoulder and returned to her cabin.
After a few sessions, it was time for lunch at last. My best friend and I headed to a nearby cafe, where she ordered a coffee and a selection of pastries for herself.
I got my own coffee from the office cafeteria.
"What about the notes? Perhaps we can analyse the handwriting and focus on the clues he may have left behind?" Amelia has been trying to work her brain from the past one hour.
I stirred my latte thoughtfully.
"If there is something I am very sure of, then that would be his dangerous tactics Amy." I sighed.
"He is being extremely cautious and secretive. Imagine how we couldn't find a single clue about this person for two whole years! I am not even sure of the gender to be honest."
I clumsily knocked over the coffee, spilling it onto my handbag, which was resting on my lap.
"Shit! Your handbag!" Amelia quickly passed the napkins to me."
"Ugh! Could this day possibly get any worse?" I was too tired to even care about this stained handbag.
.....
After the brief, unsuccessful coffee session, I completed a few more therapies before finally returning home.
I was exhausted as fuck. Maybe Because I couldn't get any sleep night.
Yet, I indulged in some stress-relieving cleaning, whipped up a comforting bowl of porridge, and settled in to unwind with a Netflix show when,
my doorbell rang.
I reluctantly got up and answered the door only to be greeted by an empty corridor.
Just when I was about to shut it, my eyes fell on the floor.
My hands trembled, sweat started coating my forehead. The fear kicked in all over again.
Another package.
I reached for it slowly and carried it inside. The same feelings, continuing from the last two years every time I receive a package, flooded back.
I opened the box.
A YSL handbag. And a note.
I flipped over the thick paper nervously. What could have been written this time.
"Replacing what was tainted. Watchful always." -Unknown.
Suddenly, the memory of me spilling coffee on my handbag this afternoon striked in.
Which meant only one thing.
He was there in the cafe today.
Watching me.