<span class="bbc_size" style="font-size: 8pt;">The sudden catatonic state banished and replaced by a more composed, collected air, Blaire happily exchanged numbers with Galen. An aura, pleasingly warm amid the chilled atmosphere, wafted about, sending tangible electricity across frozen fields of flesh. There was, nursed in abysmal depths, a strong attraction to this stranger, such a tantalizing urge…oh, how it called, imploring that she move closer, ever closer towards the obviously athletic body--sumptuous within its Armani suit!<br/><br/>Inquisitive lips tested the hard, somewhat rugged, vowels of his exotic name. <br/><br/>"Good night…Galen."<br/><br/>Off, back towards the lively eatery did the girl trudge, waltzing through the delicious dishes and idle chit-chat like a mute android. Too many thoughts sped inside her aching skull: how an articulate essay would be completed for class tomorrow; why fate-- the spectral influence utterly aggravating these past few days--chose certain victims to endure certain tortures…<br/>---<br/>Home, sweet home. The dreaded heels were tossed into the trash, immediately cascading into an unidentifiable glob that particularly reeked of spoiled meat. Sashaying flames endured upon charred logs; smoke filled the cozy room, along with a delicate, earthen aroma the residents' noses so enjoyed.<br/><br/>Lost was any covering for the feet…the loveliness of grass and leaf underfoot evoked charming, childhood memories, ah, the slight crunch following each step. Eternal darkness, perhaps murkier than before, congealed between the emaciated trees, thorough the verdant brush. Yes, Blaire fancied a walk every so often, whereas she'd glide amongst the sylvan surrounding, taking pleasure in the calming clarity nighttime produced. <br/><br/>Although overlooking a jacket, the cold no longer prodded arms and legs, but increased the iciness that ran free betwixt peaceful veins.<br/><br/>Piercing, nutty globes gazed past ocher locks. Sensitive digits explored a hearty patch of bark while stars twinkled, mere blimps when compared to the black quilt they lay on.<br/><br/>A deep exhalation sliced the quietude… a gilded twitter ensued at least one more laceration, "Beautiful."</span><br/>