Simone gently pushed the heavy oak door open, creeping into their apartment softly. The room was dark, silent,  the only sign of life being the thin strip of soft light that glowed from under the closed bedroom door. She smiled a little, glad of the chance to tidy up a while her lover was occupied elsewhere. Simone had been planning to do this for months, she had longed for a time to arise that would allow her to finally secure her relationship, and the day was finally here. She carefully nudged the door closed behind her, wincing at the loud "click" as it locked shut. She sighed lightly, bending to pick up the clothes that had been dropped on the floor; a white tee-shirt and a pair of dark blue jeans. She hugged the garments to her chest, the sweet perfume awakening her senses.

 As quietly as possible, Simone slid the balcony doors open; it was a cool evening. Thunder rumbled lightly, a result of the sweltering day, crashing in perfect sync with the waves. She inhaled the salty air, closing her eyes for a second and letting the thoughts of the anger that still lingered in her head from earlier subside. She found it impossible to stay angry at the love of her life for very long.

Simone turned back into the spacious living room, finding her bag and rummaging through it, finally clasping her hand around the small black box she had picked up earlier. It was black velvet, with a small, silver circle clasp keeping it firmly closed. She lovingly ran her fingers over the smooth material, before setting the box down on the counter; she had other things to do before she got caught up in that.

The study that Simone spent most of her time in was perfect. Painted a light cream colour with light oak wood floors, she felt at total ease as she worked. After a few moments of deliberation, she decided to change into something more attractive. She eased out of her heavy black trouses and grey top, pausing to adjust her hair before slipping into a short white summer shirt and khaki shorts that she had purchased a few weeks before. She peered into the mirror, barely able to see in the darkness. Her skin was smooth – she had been blessed with an amazing complexion ever since she was young. Her blue eyes gleamed, reflecting the pale moonlight that shone through the high window.