Across the street, your new neighbor just moved in while you watched from your window. Achilles pulled his black, expensive Audi into his driveway, stepping out of it. As soon as he began opening the backdoors of his car, your mother began rushing over to him, a giddy and inviting smile on her face. The man, startled, turned to her, greeting her back with a stoic, quiet, yet gentle expression on his face. As they talked, the woman offered her child to help him, and although he refused profusely, she was even more persistent and went to go call her child over. While he waited, a sigh escaped his lips and he grabbed the first box.
And so, Marcus's mother dragged him out of the house. In the distance, a slight argument could be heard. "Come on, go help the new neighbor," she said. "I don't want to. Why should I? I'm not interested," Marcus said. "I don't care what you want, just help him and you'll be a good person," the woman said, growing more annoyed. They exchanged a few more words before the woman dragged Marcus completely in front of the man. "Here he is, my sweet boy," the woman said with a big smile. Marcus remained silent, not saying a word.
It took him a moment to register the woman's words before his gaze shifted towards you; large and soft black eyes staring curiously at your expressionless face. The man seemed slightly taken aback by it, for all he was used to were people fawning over him and trying their best just to catch a glance of his, but something about you felt different. Almost like... "I see," was all he said before forcing out a small, genuine smile in your direction.
He extended a hand to offer for a shake, though it took you a moment to take it. Your mother seemed to nudge you slightly with her elbow as if encouraging you, but Achilles only smiled more. "It's nice to meet you," he said warmly. "I'm your new neighbor, Achilles Belmont." It was surprising how genuine his tone was; as if he truly did want to get to know you.
"Mmm..." Marcus mumbled halfheartedly before looking away from the man. His mother nudged him again. Marcus frowned, still not looking at the man. "Hi... I'm Marcus..." he said, slightly annoyed.
His gaze met yours; those black eyes studying your expression intently. "It's nice to meet you, Marcus," he repeated, his voice quiet yet firm. There was a moment of silence between the two of you, Achilles trying to figure out what to make of this unfamiliar boy. Then, as if coming to some sort of decision, he reached out and placed a large hand on your shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze before letting go. "Well," he continued with a small smile, "shall we get started?"
Marcus let out an annoyed sigh. "Fine..." he said listlessly. "That's the attitude!" his mother said with a smile. "Well, I'll leave you two alone. If my son causes you any trouble, don't hesitate to tell me!" the woman said, before turning around and leaving the two men alone. Marcus turned to his mother in disgust as she left him alone with Achilles. Marcus turned back to the man. "So... what do you want me to do?" he said, with a slightly smirk on his face. He didn't really want to be there.
"First things first," Achilles said with a reassuring smile. "I don't want you to think that I asked your mother to force you into helping me. You're not in trouble; I just need someone to give me a hand moving these boxes inside." His expression shifted slightly, becoming more business-like as he glanced at the various boxes surrounding them. "Once that's done, we can discuss what it is you'd like to do instead."
His hand moved to rest on your shoulder once more, a gesture of reassurance and gratitude. "So, are you ready to help me get settled in?"
Marcus brushed the man's hand off his shoulder. "Whatever," he said unenthusiastically, a little annoyed. He grabbed a box with some difficulty and started walking toward the man's house. The faster he did this, the faster he could return to the comfort of his own home.
Taken aback by your brusque manner, Achilles raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything. As you took a step towards him, he opened the door to his home and allowed you inside. Once both of you were settled in the house, he closed the door behind him before turning back to face you.
"I understand if you don't want to help me," he began, his voice calm and even as he spoke. "But I really need your assistance with these boxes today. After that, however..." His gaze flickered down for a moment, studying your features before meeting yours again. "Well, after that we can discuss other possibilities."
There was an unspoken challenge in his eyes; would you continue being as dismissive or perhaps reconsider your behavior now that you were here?
Marcus looked at the man with some annoyance. "After I help you with the boxes, I'm going home," he said, annoyed. "...and I won't speak to you again," he said in a whisper.
Achilles couldn't help but chuckle slightly at your reply, his gaze filled with amusement and slight surprise as he studied your expression. "Alright then," he said calmly, his tone not betraying any offense or disappointment. In fact, it almost sounded like he was teasing you. "But first, let's get these boxes inside."
He turned to grab another box and began carrying it into the living room. "Why don't we start here?" He glanced back at you, his expression expectant. "There should be plenty of space for them." The rest of the house was spotless and orderly; everything had its place in this well-kept abode. You got the feeling that Achilles wasn't someone who dealt with mess easily.
"Alright..." Marcus mumbled reluctantly before taking another box and starting to follow the man into his living room. "Just make it quick..." he said, muttering under his breath as he tried not to think about how long this was going to take him. The entire process felt more like an obligation than anything else; something he had to do because his mom told him so.
Achilles glanced at you out of the corner of his eye as he moved another box into the living room. "You know," he said conversationally, speaking loud enough so that your words wouldn't be lost in the shuffling of boxes, "I can understand why your mother wanted to make sure I was okay moving in, but it would have been nice if she had given me a bit more credit and let me handle it on my own." There was no anger or offense in his voice; instead, he sounded almost amused by the situation.
As you continued carrying boxes into the living room, Achilles remained silent for a moment before speaking again. "She seems like a lovely woman. You're very lucky to have her." This time, there was genuine warmth in his voice; not just an attempt at being polite.
Marcus didn't say anything as he continued to carry boxes into the living room. He wasn't sure what to make of the man; he seemed different than anyone else Marcus had ever met. His expression was usually stoic and quiet, but there were times when a hint of amusement or warmth would cross his face.
As you continued to unpack the boxes with him, Achilles couldn't help but notice your expression. There was something about it that made him want to get closer; to try and understand what made you tick. He found himself talking more freely than usual, almost as if he were trying to draw you out of your shell.
"So," he began casually, setting a box down on the floor before looking at you. "Do you have any hobbies? Anything you like to do in your spare time?" His expression was curious and unassuming; not unlike that of a parent or older sibling who was genuinely interested in learning more about their child or sibling's interests.
There was an awkward silence for a moment before he added, "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to." His voice softened slightly, becoming even more gentle and understanding.
"I like... reading sometimes," Marcus said slowly, still not looking at the man. "And I used to play piano..." he trailed off, a small frown on his face. He didn't really feel like talking about it with this stranger. The man was persistent though; he kept looking at him, waiting for him to say more. It made Marcus uncomfortable.
The man's gaze never left your face as you spoke; his expression thoughtful and attentive. "I see," he said softly. "That's a rather... unique hobby for someone your age. Most boys your age would prefer playing video games or sports." There was no judgment in his tone, only curiosity and mild surprise. "Don't get me wrong; I like those things too, but it's nice to see someone who enjoys something different."
He moved closer to you, a slight smile on his face. "Well, if you ever want someone to listen while you play or read, or even just talk about your hobbies... I'd be more than happy to do so. We could even find a local rec center where they offer piano lessons for adults; it might be fun for both of us." His eyes never left yours as he spoke, searching for any reaction within your expressionless face.
"I... I guess..." Marcus mumbled, still not looking at the man. "But you don't have to do that. It's not like we're going to be neighbors." He hoped that would be enough of a deterrent; make it clear that he didn't want anything to do with Achilles Belmont beyond helping him unpack his boxes.
"I understand that," Achilles said gently, his expression calm and patient as he waited for your reaction. "But I've always believed in being a good neighbor; helping out when I can. And besides..." He paused for a moment before continuing, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "...I think it would be nice to get to know you better. You seem like an interesting person."
His gaze remained fixed on your face as he waited for your response; curious and hopeful, but not pushy or demanding. It was as if he were giving you the choice whether or not to accept his offer, leaving the decision entirely up to you.
"Well... thanks... but I'm really busy with school and stuff. I don't have time for anything else." He said, without looking at the man, feeling slightly uneasy and uncomfortable feeling Achilles' eyes fixed on him.
Achilles chuckled softly at your words. "Of course I understand that," he said with a reassuring smile. "School is important, and you should definitely focus on that. But even so, taking some time for yourself to pursue hobbies or simply enjoy the company of others can be beneficial as well. It's not about making more room in your schedule; it's about prioritizing what's truly important."
He paused, considering his words carefully before continuing, "Besides, if you ever find yourself with some free time and want to talk or practice your music... I promise not to take up too much of it. You can always leave whenever you like." There was a genuine warmth in his voice as he spoke, and it seemed almost impossible for him to hide the sincerity behind his words.
"It's entirely up to you," he added gently, once more meeting your gaze. "I just thought I'd offer, you know... in case." He smiled, his expression relaxed and open, inviting you to accept or decline his offer as you wished.
"I... okay..." Marcus mumbled reluctantly. He didn't know what it was about this man that made him feel so uncomfortable saying no, but he did want to get out of there as quickly as possible. "Fine, I guess..." he said, still not looking at the man. "If I ever need help or something." The words were hardly enthusiastic, and Marcus's tone made it clear that he didn't think such a day would come anytime soon.
"I understand," Achilles said with a small smile, his tone warm and accepting. "And I appreciate it." He glanced around the living room before looking back at you. "Well, we've got most of your stuff unpacked. Why don't you head home now? You must be tired from moving everything over here." His voice was gentle and considerate; it seemed as if he truly cared about your wellbeing.
There was an awkward silence for a moment before he asked, "Would you like me to walk you out?" He raised his eyebrows slightly, offering the option in a non-committal manner. It was clear that he didn't want to pressure you into anything, but at the same time, it seemed as if he wanted to make sure you got home safely.
"No...thanks," he mumbled uncomfortably. "I just..." He began to walk slowly backward, trying to get out of this situation. "...I can get there myself." As he took another careless step back, Marcus suddenly slipped.
There was a moment's hesitation as you watched him slip, but before you could react, Achilles was already moving; quick as a flash, he lunged forward and caught your arm, steadying you with surprising strength. "You alright there?" he asked with concern, his expression shifting from gentle to concerned in the blink of an eye. "Maybe I should walk you out after all."
His tone was more firm now; not demanding or commanding, but insistent and caring nonetheless. It made it difficult for you to refuse, even if that was what you wanted to do. You could feel the weight of his gaze on your face as he waited for your response, almost daring you to turn him down again.
The air between you seemed charged with an unexpected tension; a mix of awkwardness and... something else entirely. Something that made it hard for you to look away from those intense black eyes.
"N-no no...." Marcus stammered quickly, nervously. He looked away from the man. "T-thanks for the help..." he said almost reluctantly. "I'm leaving now..." He turned nervously and headed for the exit. The discomfort in his body was a source of pain; he wanted to get out of that house immediately.
Achilles watched you go with a curious expression on his face; there was something about the interaction that left him feeling slightly unsettled. He couldn't quite put his finger on what it was exactly, but there seemed to be more going on beneath the surface than met the eye. With a shrug, he turned away and went back to unpacking the last of the boxes. As he worked, his thoughts drifted back to your odd behavior and the strange tension that had been present between you earlier. It was almost as if there was more to Marcus Belmont than met the eye...
He finished up with the unpacking a few moments later and set about cleaning up any mess they had made in his living room. The house was finally back in order; everything where it belonged, just as he liked it. Sighing softly, he glanced at the clock on the wall before deciding that it might be best to get some rest himself. Today had been an eventful day, after all.
Upon arriving home, after a few minutes, a small argument erupted. Marcus found himself once again in front of Achilles's door, forced once again by his own mother. He had left this place only a few minutes ago, and now he was back here. "Damn woman..." I whispered to myself. Seeing his hands, the plate of food his mother had prepared to welcome the man, Marcus sighed in annoyance and knocked weakly on the door.
Achilles heard the knock on his door and wondered who it could be so soon after he had arrived in this neighborhood. Curious, he opened the door to find Marcus once again standing there. "Ah, hello Marcus," he said with a warm smile. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" There was no malice or annoyance in his tone; only politeness and genuine curiosity.
The man glanced down at the plate of food that Marcus held. "You didn't have to bring me anythi... wait a minute," he said, recognition dawning on his face as he looked back up at you. "Your mother sent this over for me? How sweet." There was a hint of amusement in his voice as he spoke, but no mockery or sarcasm.
"Come in, won't you?" Achilles invited, stepping aside to allow you into the house. As Marcus walked inside, Achilles closed the door behind him and gestured towards a nearby chair with the plate of food. "Have a seat; I'm sure you must be hungry after your trip over here." His voice was calm and friendly, but there was an undertone of curiosity about what could have brought you back so soon after leaving earlier.
"N-no, thanks... I just," Marcus tried to speak, a little awkwardly. "...I was just bringing you that thing my mom made to welcome you..." He said, trying not to look directly at the man. "...and I already gave it to you... and I can go now," he said, forcing an awkward smile.
"Oh, that's alright," Achilles replied with a chuckle. "I appreciate the gesture, even if it was forced upon you." His expression grew more serious as he met your gaze. "But I must admit, I'm curious as to why your mother made you come back so soon after leaving earlier. Is everything alright at home?" There was no accusation or condescension in his words; only concern and friendliness.
The man gestured towards the chair again, this time more insistently. "Please, sit down. You look tired from all that walking back and forth today." His expression softened as he waited for your response, his body language inviting you to relax and enjoy a moment of peace in his company.
"I... she just wanted me to help her out..." Marcus said unconvincingly. "I really need to go home though..." he added, his voice wavering slightly. feeling awkward and out of place in this man's house once more.
Achilles gave you a sympathetic smile. "I understand that," he said reassuringly. "But I'd like it if we could at least become friends, even if it's just for a little while." There was sincerity in his voice as he spoke; a genuine desire to connect with someone who had been thrust into his life, whether willingly or not.
"Why don't you stay and talk with me for a bit? We can even watch TV or play a game if you'd like," he offered, gesturing towards the couch. "Just relax and enjoy some time away from everything else for a while." His expression was patient and non-judgmental; he seemed genuinely interested in whatever you had to say.
After a moment's hesitation, Marcus slowly sat down on the chair, looking around awkwardly. "Alright... I g-guess..." He cleared his throat and crossed his arms over his chest, still feeling uncomfortable. "What do you want to talk about?" he asked cautiously, unsure if he really wanted to have this conversation with the man.
Achilles smiled reassuringly at you as he sat down on the couch opposite. "We don't have to talk about anything in particular," he said softly, his voice calm and soothing. "We can just chat about whatever comes to mind... get to know each other better." His eyes met yours, searching for any hint of reluctance or unease within your expression.
There was a brief silence as the two of you sat there, simply taking each other in; studying the other person's face and trying to read their emotions. It didn't feel as awkward or forced as it had earlier when Marcus had first arrived, but there was still a certain level of tension between them that made conversation difficult at times.