I loved this. This story is steeped with emotion, infused with your personality and memories. I devoured every word, read it twice, and am here to cast my vote. Fantastic entry -- a sure winner.

Thank you both so much for your comments, votes, and encouragement. I didn't think with all the entries my story would be noticed.

First, THANK YOU, LAZ, for drawing our attention to another brilliant young writer (we have a few amazing gems, here on Bookrix).

I must admit, I read this story with my mouth agape - absolutely startled and bewildered by such vocabulary and expressive writing from such a youthful person. It is not often we are gifted with writers like you, Lillian, and all I can say is YOU HAVE MY VOTE. Your talent is breathtaking and I urge you to keep writing as you have a lot to offer the literary world. Well done and congratulations.

While beginning the long task of read all the entries to this contest, I thought that I would for a change begin with the least read and saved, AND the ones with no votes. Well...to my great surprise, this story was indeed a great find. Love it! So well written with SO much feeling and painted scenery of the apartment and the goings on there, that I had no choice but to vote wholeheartedly.

thank you for the lovely comment!

I've gone over it a few times now, chopping and changing, so thank you for alerting me, and for your feedback :)

I really loved that story. The character, Lucien, was so fascinating in the story. You really made me wish that I knew him, that I lived across the hall from him.

Great job!

a few minor spelling mistakes (nothing huge), so you might want to read over it once more. But really, this was a great read. I almost wish it were longer!