Preface
Three walls are covered by bookcases. Each bookcase has its shelves, nearly to the ceiling. Most of the bookshelves are stuffed to the brim with science, maths, history, and everything in between. Other shelves have two layers of paperback science fiction, and it still isn't enough. Books are literally everywhere, from the coffee table to the side of the cushioned armchair to small towers under the windows. The skyscrapers outside are a match for the book-towers. This is the most center room of the apartment recently occupied by John Smith.
Well, not really.
John Smith sits at a small desk adjacent to the largest window in the most center room, his hands folded casually behind his head. He runs his hands through his (very brown) hair- in a habit that he's had since he can remember- leaving it far from immaculate.
It's autumn now, or nearly, because central park is already turning those absurd and vibrant colors he loves. The sun still rises high in the sky to highlight the flaming trees.
He expects winter to come early.
This apartment has been his for nearly a week and it's beginning to feel like home, partially from the clutter of books that trail behind him and mostly because of the relative quiet that he gets from this high-rise space.
There's only one other apartment on this floor, and he wants to meet the neighbor, but today doesn't feel like the day to do just that. Neither does tomorrow, really.
He's seen her in the hallway, this neighbor. She's young and pretty and he can't help pining after her just a bit because she seems amiable and just bursting with enigma.
He really does like New York, but the sheer mass of people in such a small area is mind-boggling. Hailing from the upmost bits of Scotland, New York is… a change. A Big Change, all capitalized for emphasis. He thinks of calling his new novel this.
He reconsiders instantly and instead decides to eat something.
Moments later, and he's annoyed to find that his banana supply is empty.
Bugger.
Author's Note: Confused? Next chapter will be up soon.