Stone Crest: Rise of a Raven

1. Chapter 1

Chapter one

Raven

I nhale. One, two, three. Exhale.

I repeat the technique, filling my lungs with the Massachusetts air, while clenching the leather strap on my bag. With practiced skill, I release it slowly through my lips. It’s new. Not the bag, or me trying to breathe away my anxiety, but the town I was just dropped off in like an unwanted mutt. The building to my direct left is a dark grey stone that resembles a worn castle. Like it’s seen the battles of war and the minds of the masters that conquered them. It has a mood. Old. Mysterious. Intriguing. I didn’t have much time to do my research, but I studied countless pictures of the campus while I was on the two hour drive. They have a very impressive photography curriculum, which is what my major is and one of the top libraries on the east coast. Other than that, all I know is what my mother and father had told me over dinner the night they decided I’d grieved long enough.

Apparently, this university has certain requirements, and not just an excellent GPA gets you through the wrought iron gates. This isn’t your typical college town. This place houses some of the most pristine of students. Those going somewhere in the academic world. Those with money and status. Which we have, but what I also have is an aunt with connections. Not just to this school, but to my mother’s husband. She didn’t just kiss his rich ass…..she wasn’t below sucking his dick too. Talk about leverage. I keep that little black file tucked away for when it’s needed. I've come to learn that knowledge is power in this world.

The sole reason I’m standing on the grounds is sadly unfortunate, and the reminder kickstarts my breathing regimen again. Inhale. One, two, three. Exhale.

I forgo the steep set of stairs and walk past the gates that look like they should be welcoming you into the most elegant cemetery on earth. My accommodations are not on campus, but just a couple of blocks away. Close enough to get to class, but far enough I don’t have to mingle . If it was up to me I would have dropped out of college and spent the rest of my life traveling. Taking photos and exploring. But I knew what was expected of me. I was a Cunningham. So here I am, an official resident of this east coast town, crossing the sidewalk to my new apartment building.

I glance down at the app on my phone, double checking I’m in the right building. As I roll my suitcase across the threshold of my symbolic fresh start, I weave around the neatly placed furniture, then venture down the marble lined hallway.

Arriving at the elevator, I press the button for the third floor. To my surprise, the ride is spent alone. Just me staring at a reflection of my pale skin and those reluctant dark circles that no female can seem to conquer even with the right concealer. My cheek bones are more visible than usual. That I can't blame on the makeup. I know I’ve lost weight. My appetite just hasn’t returned yet, and instead of being concerned, my mother praised me for the shredded pounds. When the elevator jolts, and the ding initiates the parting doors like Moses to the Red Sea, I’m met with silence. It’s odd for the middle of the day on a Sunday. I step out, placing one chuck over the other as I search for apartment 24A. I follow the long hallway, lined with wooden doors, and abstract wallpaper. Mine should be the last one on the left at the very end of the hall. I was told this spot just opened up, and I was very lucky to be able to snag it on such short notice. Again, also my aunt’s connections. Wonder who she seduced to land this?

With one last glance down the hallway, I turn the lever, pushing into the room with my luggage in tow. I’m met with hand carved wooden floors, and neutral walls. The small entry way opens up to a decent size living area, adjoining a kitchen with dark mahogany cabinets and granite countertops. These two bedroom apartments were a direct reflection of the status of this town. Top of the line.

With a sigh I sling my duffle bag onto the floor before I notice the girl sitting across the room in a bean bag chair by the window. She’s reading a book, with a set of headphones plugged into her ears. It takes a few seconds before she glances up, a smile pulling at her lips.

I give an awkward wave as she places her book on her lap then plucks out one earpiece. “You must be Raven?”

I nod. “Guilty.”

Ha. The irony.

“I’m Presley.” She hops up from the chair.

Her long slender legs are covered with a pair of hot pink leggings. The only splash of color I’ve seen since I arrived here. Her faded band T-shirt hangs off of her shoulder and her blonde hair is piled into a bun of chaos. I think I like her already. But I won’t admit that. I’m not here to make friends.

“Do as you wish to your room and wherever else.” She motions around. “Nothing really bothers me except smoke. I have asthma, so if you need a hit, please do so outside.”

“I don’t smoke. But good to know.” I roll my suitcase farther into the room as she points past me.

“Yours is the second door to the right.”

I make my way into the spacious room, then toss the suitcase on the empty bed.

Unzipping it, I gently remove the item on top. My camera.

Presley knocks before hiking a thumb over her shoulder. “I’m running to the coffee shop down the block. Want to join?”

“You go ahead. I don’t really like people.” I tug out the gray sheets I purchased before I left New York.

She laughs. “At least you’re honest. You don’t find that around here.”

“One thing about me, you won’t ever have to guess where I stand.” I place my camera on the white dresser that I’m immediately going to trade in for a black one. Casting my eyes around the room, I pause

when they land on Presley her smile grows. “Welcome to Stone Crest, Raven.”