Nights in Boulder (COMPLETE)

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/1g3oiBj.png" height="200" width="200"> (text-color:"white")[ (t8n:"dissolve")[Your girlfriend - Carmen's - text, call or whatever. She's not answering. You need to know if she's okay, you need to know [[something.]] ]] <audio src="http://mboxmp3.com/u/Ticking-clock-sound.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<h3>21:05</h3> <center><b>(transition:"dissolve")[You're in a bar, the aroma of whiskey fills the entire place. Frank, the bartender, seems to have had a bit too much tonight. You look around and feel dazed, but you order another Long Island anyway, seeing double and paying double of what you can afford, but you don't care. When you're a single 23 year old man who has to go back to an empty apartment everyday after work, it becomes lonely. What better way to kill that than with premium alcohol? Maybe tonight you can find someone. You have hope for some reason, that you will have the courage to [[approach the girl]] you've had eyes on all night. She's been sitting alone, at the far corner table on her laptop. You glance at her again, struggling to keep your bloodshot eyes open. Frank notices you staring at her, & stirs a cocktail for you to give to her. "Goodluck, my friend." ] </b></center> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/nr71is56me/November_-_2.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #cccccc; } </style>

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ You walk towards her, and can't help but stare at her beautiful face, and notice she looks very sad. Your heart races as you finally approach her. [["Hey, how you doing?"]] [[Place the drink on her table: "I got this for you."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (t8n:"dissolve")[(text-style:"bold")[ //She chuckles,// "I'm doing just fine, but you seem to be having some trouble standing up straight." [["Ha, yeah. I should have took it easy on The Long Islands."]] [["Psht, I'm perfectly fine."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "I thought the waiters aren't allowed to drink on the job? Anyway, that's mine? [["It is, but I'm not the waiter."]] [["Very funny, this is actually my favourite shirt."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Oh yes, I've actually been waiting for you all this time to come over here & almost collapse on me." [["I detect saaarcasm."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Psht, I totally believe you." [["I detect saaarcasm."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "I bet you couldn't even detect how many fingers I'm holding up right now." [["I-I say five. Five is my favourite number."]] [["I can't see them, let me hold them."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Hmm, I say you've had five glasses. To much alcohol steals happiness away from tomorrow, you know?" [["Because of the hangover?"]] [["Fuck it, I might just do this tomorrow as well."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ //She chuckles.// "You're cute, what's your name?" [["Matthew, short for Matt, and you?"->"I'm Matt, what's yours?"]] [["I'm Matt, what's yours?"->"I'm Matt, what's yours?"]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Basically, yeah. And there's a possibility that you could get yourself in trouble on the way home, seeing you're alone here as well, right?" [["Yeah, I'm here alone."]] [["Yeah, all alone here just like you."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Are you alone here?" [["Yeah, I'm here alone."]] [["Yeah, all alone here just like you."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Carmen, pleased to make your acquaintance." [["Likewise."]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/f67sb5h0ne/November_-_1.mp3" autoplay>

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ //She laughs.// "I'm just messing with you, but thanks, thats's sweet. Quick question, how many fingers am I holding up?" [["I-I say five. Five is my favourite number."]] [["Shit, I have no idea, AT ALL."->"I-I say five. Five is my favourite number."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Hmm, in that case, I sure do like it." [["I detect saaarcasm."]] [["Why thanks."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "You're most welcome! But on a serious note, you should maybe stop drinking anymore today, don't you think?" [[Why, because I'm going to have a massive hangover tomorrow?->"Because of the hangover?"]] [["Fuck it, I might just do this tomorrow as well."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Then how's about you sit with me? I don't want you to get yourself in trouble." [["I'd be happy to! I'm Matt."->"I'm Matt, what's yours?"]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/ptTEvql.png" width="200"> (t8n:"dissolve")[You brew youself a cup of coffee and take a seat at your table, overlooking Carmen peacefully sleeping, and can't help but smile. She slowly opens her eyes, full of sleep, and notices you smiling at her. She smiles back at you. "Morning, Matt." [["Good morning."->"Morning, Carmen."]] ]</center> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kustjc8x74/November_-_single4.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "You may end up seeing the light."] [["Someone's not a morning person."->"Shit, it didn't focus."]] ]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (t8n:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ //She smiles.// "Thank you, I've been waiting for a long time." [["I'm sorry?"]] [["You were waiting for me??"]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ "Judging by your outfit, you are the waiter, aren't you?" [["Very funny, this is actually my favourite shirt."]] ]]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> (transition:"dissolve")[(text_style:"bold")[ //She chuckles.// "Judging by your outfit, you are the waiter, aren't you?" [["Very funny, this is actually my favourite shirt."]] [["Were you waiting for this waiter?"]] You point at yourself. ]]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Urgh, morning Matt."] [["Morning, Carmen."]] ]

(t8n:"dissolve")[<h3>Sunday, 10:15</h3> <b>Carmen wakes up to get dressed, but you insist she stays in bed so that you can bring her breakfast. She loves scrambled eggs on toast, but you tell her you can make a "mean" sunnyside up. [[Make her scrambled eggs on toast.]] [[Let her try your "mean" recipe.]] ]</b> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sni3lwm5wx/November_-_single3.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/i8s5NE9.jpg"); background-size: contain; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

(t8n:"dissolve")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/xyTN7i8.png" width="200"> You prepare it to perfection, and sit with her in bed. (click:"sit with her in bed")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["I really enjoyed this."]] [["I hope I see you again soon."]]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/4ngff9bb39/November_-_single2.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/xyTN7i8.png" width="200"> You prepare it to perfection, and sit with her in bed.] (click:"sit with her in bed")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["I really enjoyed this."]] [["I hope I see you again soon."]]]</center> ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/4ngff9bb39/November_-_single2.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ She smiles, but seems to look a bit upset.(text-color:"purple")[ "I'll have to be leaving soon, I have a lot of work to do."] [["Stay."]] [["Okay, I understand."]] ]

(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ <h3>11:02</h3> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/PD1F4UM.jpg" height="300" width="600"> She gets dressed and you then walk her to the door, you can't help but feel an overwhelming sadness as you open it for her to leave. When will you see her again? Does she want you to see her again? [["So, I'll call you?"]] [["See you when I see you."]] ]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/o6nwgew63w/November_-_longer.mp3" autoplay>

(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "I really should get going, Matt."] [[Okay, sure.->"Okay, I understand."]] ]

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/KnbQE60.png" height="200" width="300"> (t8n:"dissolve")[ You lay a peck on her lips and close the door in front of you after saying your goodbye. You're alone again, but are you in a better condition than you were before last night? You throw yourself on the couch, still trying to register the time you had with Carmen, and still not sure if she really wants to see you again. It's been ages since you've been with someone and connected with them on such a level, you just [[hope that it works out.]] ]</center> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xj4dxjio7l/November_-_lighter.mp3" autoplay>

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/KnbQE60.png" height="200" width="300"> (t8n:"dissolve")[ You give her a hug and close the door in front of you after saying your goodbye. You're alone again, but are you in a better condition than you were before last night? You throw yourself on the couch, still trying to register the time you had with Carmen, and still not sure if she really wants to see you again. It's been ages since you've been with someone and connected with them on such a level, you just [[hope that it works out.]] ]</center> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xj4dxjio7l/November_-_lighter.mp3" autoplay>

(transition:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[<h3>18:05</h3> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/YXi3ebO.png" height="300" width="600"><br> <b>You sit on your balcony taking in the sunset. You find it strange how this very same balcony has been your place of solace ever since you moved here, but now, it feels like something is missing. Someone is missing. As the sky darkens, you prepare to head out to do some night photography for a very elite client. Embarking on a new project usually fills you with zeal, but all you feel is emptiness - crippling and unbearable. Carmen is all that is running through your mind; she has given you a taste of being with someone again, and now you crave it. [[You call her.]] ]]</b> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } img { border-radius: 25px; border: 1px solid black; float: up; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/7ltswf4tu3/November_-_3.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="mainheader">(text-style:"shadow")[ <h3>Monday, [[12:00]]</h3> ] <audio src="http://mboxmp3.com/u/Guitar%20String%20(E).mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/G9svsKw.png" width="130"> The unforgiving midday sun wakes you up from your cold slumber, and you find yourself drinking again, trying to kill every emotion and memory you have, only to run out of alcohol. [[You decide to take a trip to the bar.]] ]</center>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-style:"bold")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/GwuropX.png" height="300" width="400"> You enter the bar, and the first thing you see is Frank dancing all over the place. He's a good man and has helped you out many times as what makes him happy is making other people happy, but you feel bad for him, he has experienced great loss in his life. Losing your parents at the age of 17 in a car accident is harsh, and so is losing your own son years later. It's just one of the many cruel ways in which life can work. You think about Frank and compare him to yourself whilst staring at the picture he keeps by the register: it is of his family, the late little boy included. After everything he's been through, he still has a smile on his face and always finds a way to come around. However, you haven't gone through much nor experienced great loss, yet you're a mess. [[You sit and contemplate life.->You order]] ]]</center> <audio src="http://mboxmp3.com/u/longPIANOwait.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ //She smiles, but doesn't seem happy.// (text-color:"purple")["That would be nice, but for now I will have to be leaving soon. Lots of work to do."] [["Stay."]] [["Okay, I understand."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You feel empty, so you dont take it easy on the drinks. (click: "drinks")[(t8n:"dissolve")[You order a Long Island.]] (click: "Long Island")[(t8n:"dissolve")[You order another.]] (click:"another")[(t8n:"dissolve")[You [[feel dizzy.->You sit and contemplate life.]]]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ On the search for Carmen, you decide the bar nearby is a perfect place to start. She loves it there and so do you, it is where everything started after all. As you make your way to the bar, you can't help but reflect on everything over the past years, and then worry. Is she not happy with you? Is she cheating on you? Did she just run away? Is she okay? You tell yourself: [["Fuck, think happy thoughts Matt, the anxiety is kicking in".]] ]]</center> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xsaftdy53f/Third_Gate_-_2.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ You enter the bar, and a strong liquor scent hits your face. You don't see her anywhere, so you decide to ask around for information, Frank, being your best bet for it. [[Approach Frank.]] ]]</center> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ You approach Frank, shining as always, and ask him if he's seen Carmen. [["Frank, has Carmen come by?"]] [["Carmen, where is she?"->"Frank, has Carmen come by?"]] ]]</center> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ "My friend, how are we?" [["What?"]] [["I asked a question, Frank."->"What?"]] ]]</center> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ //He looks saddened.// "I haven't seen her today, son." You ask regulars who know her. (click: "You ask regulars who know her.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ They all say she hasn't been by in a while. Fed up, you decide to [[file a police report]].] ]]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ You exit the bar, feeling hopeless. [[Take a cab to the police station.]] ]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/fMXqL8u.png" height="200" width="200"> You arrive at the police station, and go up to the officer at reception. [["I'd like to report a missing person."]] ]]</center> <audio src="http://mboxmp3.com/u/Police%20Station%20Background.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #001f4d; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/fMXqL8u.png" height="200" width="200"> "May I get your name and the name of the missing person?" [["I'm Matt, my girlfriend Carmen Smith is missing."]] ] <style> body { background-color: #001f4d; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ //The officer looks at you skeptically.// "Sir, you need to st..." //The phone at reception rings, interrupting the officer.// //You wait for him to finish the call.// "Okay, so Matt, I'm going to need you to follow me." [["Wh-why? Doesn't everything get done here at reception?"]] ]]</center> <style> body { background-color: #001f4d; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ He cues for two other officers, who come up behind you. [["What's going on?"->CHAPTER 2 START]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/lnwrpqyh1a/Third_Gate_-_updown.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #001f4d; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You watch as Carmen makes a bee-line for her corner table, completely unaware of your presence. [[You confront her.]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/Eq1rOMg.png" height="200" width="200"> You get up from your seat and feel lightheaded, like you're about to collapse, but your mind is set on confronting Carmen for completely ignoring you. You make your way to her table, and can't help but feel anger when you look at her. (click:"look at her")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ She made you think it was all something special. Or was it just casual to her? [[You reach her table.]] ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/ymt45fd79h/Lost_Within_3.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ //She looks at you and cringes.//(text-color:"purple")[ "Hello, Matt."] [["You didn't return my calls."]] [["Too busy to give me a call?"->"You didn't return my calls."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Urg, Matt, I'm sorry. It's just that things went a bit too fast and I'm not feeling right about it."] [["Then why'd you go along?"]] [["Could have told me that instead of ignoring."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "I-I don't know. I guess we just got caught up in everything too quickly and don't get me wrong, I enjoyed it very much, but maybe we should take things a bit slower - if you're willing to do so? [["I don't know"->"You need some morales."]] [["I don't like being ignored."->"You need some morales."]] ]]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "I know, I should have. I'm really sorry about that, but ... we just need a bit of a better pacing."] [["You need some morales."]] [["I don't know."->"You need some morales."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/mxHXWME.png"> You walk away, feeling hurt. Not even the alcohol running through your blood could mask it. You take a seat at a table, far away from her, all alone. [[It's what you need right now.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/rscyf0pl9y/Lost_Within_-_single1.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ She's not important, right? You don't even look at her. (click:"She's not important")[(t8n:"dissolve")[Who are you kidding?]] (click:"look at her")[(t8n:"dissolve")[Hold on, she's headed for your table. [[You put your head down.]] ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/vae37nvt88/Lost_Within_-_single2.mp3" autoplay>

(t8n:"dissolve")[ She approaches your table, and you slowly lift your head up as she places down a cocktail, <img src="http://i.imgur.com/r71i2a9.png" width="200"> being the same drink you gave to her the night you met. (click:"lift your head up")[(t8n:"dissolve")[She smiles, [[and so do you]].]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/w8pqxs5mnu/Lost_Within_-_single_3.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ It's all confusing. You end up outside the police station after being escourted out by deputies. They refuse to help you as a missing persons report can only be filed after 24 hours from when the person goes missing. But why escort you out like that? You think it's probably because of the false crimes being reported around lately, and looking like you're tipsy, but in reality [[tired]], doesn't really help. ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/lnwrpqyh1a/Third_Gate_-_updown.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ If worse comes to worst, the police are your final option to help find Carmen. You hope she shows up soon, so you [[head back home]]. ]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ Plans were made last night for a proper date, however, you are stuck on where to take her. She has mentioned that she loves movies and must watch at least one everyday, but she also loves the park and anything to do with nature. [[<img src="http://i.imgur.com/v3Jmrc9.png" width="200">|Take her to the park.]]  [[<img src="http://i.imgur.com/hTEH2eF.png" width="175">|Take her to the movies.]] Park, cinema or should [[she decide?->Let her decide.]] //Click the respective picture to make a choice.// ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/99vpv18cxv/Hi_be_mine_-_single2.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You put on your best outfit, use your best cologne - which are testers your mom gives you - and you make your way to the cab you called. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> [[You're on your way, and excited.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/pvsw2sad33/Hi_be_mine_-_single3.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You put on your best outfit, use your best cologne - which are testers your mom gives you - and you make your way to the cab you called. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> [[You're on your way, and excited.->to the park]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/pvsw2sad33/Hi_be_mine_-_single3.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You put on your best outfit, use your best cologne - which are testers your mom gives you - and you make your way to the cab you called. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> [[You're on your way, and excited.->park]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/pvsw2sad33/Hi_be_mine_-_single3.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You arrive at Carmen's place which isn't that far away, in a little suburb with white picket fences closely resembling your parent's home. [[It makes you feel nostalgic.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1zjdarbobe/Hi_be_mine_-_end.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ As you enter her garden, you're greeted by an adorable grey kitten which rubs up against your leg. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/lnWR5iR.png" width="200"> Carmens then exits the front door, and she looks ravishing. [["You didn't tell me you had a cat."]] [["You look lovely, and so does your cat."->"You didn't tell me you had a cat."]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/j5o0moo8oc/Hi_be_mine_-_fadeout.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Oh Isabelle, she's a stray - but I feed her and stuff so I guess I should just adopt her."] "You should, otherwise I will." (click:"You should, otherwise I will.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-color:"purple")[ "I didn't take you for a guy who likes cats." ] [["They're kinda like me so, gotta love them."]] ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1zjdarbobe/Hi_be_mine_-_end.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "No wonder why I like you."] [[You start blushing, and whilst trying to hide it, you walk with her to the cab.]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ Upon entering the cab, you tell her that you've decided to [[take her to the cinema.]] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> She loves your choice. ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qzu2v6uo7z/November_-_single1.mp3" autoplay>

(t8n:"dissolve")[ You enter the cinema with Carmen. The air is filled with the aroma of popcorn and butter, and your excitement is tangible. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/PTxtqeg.png" width="200"> "What would you like to see?" (click:"What would you like to see")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Hmm, I'm going to let you decide on this one, I'd like to see whatever movie (text-style:"bold")[you're] interested in."] [[Choose the comedy about a father who hates his daughter's boyfriend.]] [[Choose the drama about stalking, sex and murder.]] ]]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ Hours later, the movie comes to an end - meaning that soon - your date will as well. As you walk out of the cinema, Carmen critiques the movie:(text-color:"purple")[ "Quite an interesting choice, my dad was just like that when I was younger, probably why I was put off from dating back then."] [["I never understood why some fathers are like that."]] [["I dated a girl in highschool who had a dad like that."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "They're just scared of losing their little girl, I understand where they're coming from, but my dad - waaay too overprotective."] [["Lucky you're old enough to make your own decisions now".]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Phew, must have been real annoying, but they're just scared of losing their little girl, I understand where they're coming from. But my dad? Waaay too overprotective."] [["Lucky you're old enough to make your own decisions now".]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Ha, yeah. I have free reign to do just about whatever I want now."] "Just about?" (click:"Just about")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Well, all the other stuff is illegal."] [["What a shame."]] [["It's only illegal if you get caught."]] ]]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "I know right, silly laws!"] [["Hmm, silly indeed."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-color:"purple")[ "Still have the mentality of a 15 year old I see?"] [["Psht, I'm still young at heart."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You hold her hand, fingers intertwined, and [[head to the cab.]] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Psht, if you say so."] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> [[You smile and grab her hand while walking back to the cab."->head to the cab.]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ Hours later, the movie comes to an end - meaning your date soon will too. As you walk out of the cinema, Carmen critiques the movie:(text-color:"purple")[ "That movie was SO good! I bet you enjoyed all the sex scenes?"] [["Yeah, pretty much. Not like I care about the plot."]] [["I enjoyed the murders as well."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "The plot was amazing though, potential role models right there if I hadn't been raised by overprotective parents. I wouldn't have the guts to do the stuff they did."] [["Lucky you're old enough to make your own decisions now".]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Psycho much?"] "Don't act like you didn't enjoy them too." (click:"Don't act like you didn't enjoy them too.")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Now that you mention it, they were quite satisfying."] [["If only murder were legal."]]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "I know right, silly laws!"] [["But if you think of it, it's only illegal if you get caught."->"It's only illegal if you get caught."]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You arrive at Carmen's place which isn't that far away, in a little suburb with white picket fences closely resembling your parent's home. [[It makes you feel nostalgic.->enter garden]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1zjdarbobe/Hi_be_mine_-_end.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ As you enter her garden, you're greeted by an adorable grey kitten which rubs up against your leg. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/lnWR5iR.png" width="200"> Carmens then exits the front door, and she looks ravishing. [["You didn't tell me you had a cat."->stray cat]] [["You look lovely, and so does your cat."->stray cat]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/j5o0moo8oc/Hi_be_mine_-_fadeout.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ Upon entering the cab, you tell her that you've decided to [[take her to the botanical park.]] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> She loves your choice. ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Oh Isabelle, she's a stray - but I feed her and stuff so I guess I should just adopt her."] "You should, otherwise I will." (click:"You should, otherwise I will.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-color:"purple")[ "I didn't take you for a guy who likes cats."] [["They're kinda like me so, gotta love them."->like me]] ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1zjdarbobe/Hi_be_mine_-_end.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "No wonder why I like you."] [[You start blushing, and whilst trying to hide it you walk with her to the cab.->you tell her]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[<img src="http://i.imgur.com/iqXqnLT.png" width="230"> You enter the park and all that's in the air is the earthy fragrance of greenary and you find yourself surrounded by colourful flowers. The grass, lush and springy, made you feel as if you were walking on clouds whilst watching chirping swallows chase dragonflies in a dance of life and death. The sparkling river was home to ducks and their offspring - simple as they were, they increased the peaceful atmosphere. This park is a safe haven for many, an eye-opening place to just kick back, [[relax]] and appreciate how beautiful nature really is. ] <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/ZuappZk.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/hq33gwxg24/Hi_be_mine_-_2.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You sit with Carmen on a bench overlooking the river, you look at her and her face is lit up with reverance. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/gSkCZGB.png" width="300"> (text-color:"purple")[ "I haven't been here in years! It's astonishing how much it's changed ... and how pretty it is."] [["When was the last?"]] [["My dad used to bring me here and I fell in this very river."]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/2wty6d7b53/Park_Ambience_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Err...about 3 years back, I think. I visited with my family, they adored this place. I wonder if they still come here."] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/gSkCZGB.png" width="300"> [["I bet they do."]] [["My family still do, they're suckers for nature."]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/2wty6d7b53/Park_Ambience_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ //She laughs.//(text-color:"purple")[ "(text-style:"bold")[That] must have been hilarious. Do they still come here?"] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/gSkCZGB.png" width="300"> [[Oh of course, my family are suckers for nature."->"My family still do, they're suckers for nature."]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/2wty6d7b53/Park_Ambience_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Yeah, I don't keep in contact with them anymore."] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/gSkCZGB.png" width="300"> [["I understand."]] [["Maybe you should ... give them a call?"]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/2wty6d7b53/Park_Ambience_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Just like me!"] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/gSkCZGB.png" width="300"> She takes your hand, and holds it gently looking up at you, smiling, and of course, [[you can't help but do the same.->same]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/2wty6d7b53/Park_Ambience_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/gSkCZGB.png" width="300"> She takes your hand, and holds it gently looking up at you smiling, and of course, [[you can't help but do the same.->same]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/2wty6d7b53/Park_Ambience_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Trust me, it's better this way."] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/gSkCZGB.png" width="300"> [["If you think so."->"I understand."]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/2wty6d7b53/Park_Ambience_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ Hours go by, and in them you just appreciate the beauty of the park, as well as the beauty of the girl by your side. Together, you: <img src="http://i.imgur.com/mrtyyl3.png" width="200"> Sit on the bench and talk about life. (click:"Sit on the bench and talk about life.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ <img src="http://i.imgur.com/eM1LLNl.png" width="135"> Feed the ducks.]] (click:"Feed the ducks.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Go on a tranquil stroll around the park.->hand her a flower]]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/j5o0moo8oc/Hi_be_mine_-_fadeout.mp3" autoplay>

<center><img src="http://i.imgur.com/bUwVsfK.png" width="150"><center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")["Aww, what a sweetheart! Thank you, I'll keep it as a pressed flower in my journal."] "You have a journal?" (click:"You have a journal")[(text-color:"purple")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ "Yeah, I just like to write down what happens everyday so then I can look back at it after a while."] "Am I going to be written about today?"] (click:"Am I going to be written about today")[(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Ha-ha, we'll see..."]] [[You smile and grab her hand, while heading back to the cab."->head to the cab.]]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1zjdarbobe/Hi_be_mine_-_end.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ You arrive at Carmen's place which isn't that far away, in a little suburb with white picket fences closely resembling your parent's home. [[It makes you feel nostalgic.->garden]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1zjdarbobe/Hi_be_mine_-_end.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ As you enter her garden, you're greeted by an adorable grey kitten which rubs up against your leg. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/lnWR5iR.png" width="200"> Carmens then exits the front door, and she looks ravishing. [["You didn't tell me you had a cat."->stray kitten]] [["You look lovely, and so does your cat."->stray kitten]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/j5o0moo8oc/Hi_be_mine_-_fadeout.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Oh Isabelle, she's a stray - but I feed her and stuff so I guess I should just adopt her."] "You should, otherwise I will." (click:"You should, otherwise I will.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-color:"purple")[ "I didn't take you for a guy who likes cats."] [["They're kinda like me so, gotta love them."->just like me]] ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1zjdarbobe/Hi_be_mine_-_end.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "No wonder why I like you."] [[You start blushing, and whilst trying to hide it you walk with her to the cab.->tell her]] ]

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[ Upon entering the cab, you tell her how you planned to take her to either the park or cinema, but got stuck on a choice. (text-color:"purple")[ "I watch way too many movies, I think the park would be a good change."] You give the driver your destination and you're on your way to [[the botanical park.->take her to the botanical park.]] <img src="http://i.imgur.com/f4Feohq.png" width="300"> ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qzu2v6uo7z/November_-_single1.mp3" autoplay>

<center>(t8n:"dissolve")[<img src="http://i.imgur.com/bUwVsfK.png" width="150"> & on the way down a stunning pathway of flowers, you pick a wild tulip, and [[hand it to Carmen.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/pvsw2sad33/Hi_be_mine_-_single3.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[ (text-style:"bold")[<h3>01:30</h3>] You burst into your apartment and check if Carmen returned. (click:"check if Carmen returned.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ There's no sign of her. You then [[try and search for clues]] that might indicate where she could be. ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xsaftdy53f/Third_Gate_-_2.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/hkNd0E5.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

Everything fell into place, it all worked out. After your first date with Carmen, many more followed. Creating memories, building happiness, it was truly [[something special.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/dt7wazt0pu/November_-_short_transition.mp3" autoplay>

<b> On the 3rd date, over a month later, you were completely certain that Carmen is the girl you want to be with. She sparks something inside of you, a feeling, an emotion, something that keeps you craving more. She has trust issues, just like you. She has also been let down many times, just like you. So, to show her you're serious, on a Saturday afternoon in a little coffee shop - with the aroma of sweet cakes and caffiene circulating - [[you ask her to be your girlfriend.]] </b> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/nr71is56me/November_-_2.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/X6KHmKg.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<b> Of course, you were nervous about it; (text-color:"blue")[what if she says no? wait, she can't say no, she really likes me.] She finally says yes, with a huge smile on her face, & a huge smile on yours, you let out a [[sigh of relief.]] </b> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xil0wrs537/November_-_4.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/X6KHmKg.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

For 2 months, all was happy, & dates ranged from many different places. It felt like the perfect relationship. However, on a Tuesday evening, you get a sad [[call from Carmen.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/f67sb5h0ne/November_-_1.mp3" autoplay>

//She's crying.// (text-color:"purple")["Matt ... I don't know what I'm going to do ..."] (text-color:"blue")[ "Carmen, what happened?"] (click:"Carmen, what happened")[(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "I-I got fucking evicted ... the landlord kicked me out, I'm so fucking screwed!" ] [["What? Why did they do that?"]] [["What did you do?"]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/mu0t7c1rmu/November_-_5.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"purple")[ "I have no fucking idea, the guy's a real prick."] [["He can't just kick you out for no reason."]] [["Okay, don't worry. You can come stay with me."]]

(text-color:"purple")[ "I don't want to intrude on you like this."] (text-color:"blue")["Don't be silly, we will be together, and that's what we want, right?"] //She sighs.// (text-color:"purple")["I guess so ... Thank you, Matt."] [["It's no problem."]]

(text-color:"purple")[ "Well he did, Matt."] [["Okay, don't worry. You can come stay with me."]]

(t8n:"dissolve")[<div class="mainheader"><h3>The next day</h3></div> You help Carmen move all of her stuff to your place. There's (text-style:"bold")[a lot] of it, and because of that, a truck has to be hired. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/BReboBY.png" width="220"> After hours of moving stuff back and forth, going up and down flights of stairs to your apartment, carrying boxes upon boxes and heavy furniture, the busy day comes to an [[end.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qij2cxq20p/November_-_single7.mp3" autoplay>

You lay on your couch, exhausted, your apartment filled with boxes. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/Y3BDyNM.png" width="200">   <img src="http://i.imgur.com/rgp6JAK.png" width="175"> Whilst waiting for Carmen to finish shower, you take a glance at the mess and notice a photo album dropped on the floor. [[You get up and pick it up.]] [[You ignore it.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qij2cxq20p/November_-_single7.mp3" autoplay>

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/7zzPdQz.png" width="200"> [[You look through the album.]] [[You respect her privacy.]]

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/7zzPdQz.png" width="200"> It's like it's staring at you, like it wants to be opened & seen. Carmen may be hiding something, and this is a perfect chance to [[look for secrets.->You get up and pick it up.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qzu2v6uo7z/November_-_single1.mp3" autoplay>

You flip through the pages and find: //pictures of Carmen, her cat, pictures of her holding the cat, some cool photography, her family.// (text-colour:"blue")["Cute stu - wait ... what the ... who the fuck ..."] You come across a [[picture of her and a guy]], and there's a heart drawn in the bottom corner. <img src="http://i.imgur.com/N7mALGF.png" width="175"> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xil0wrs537/November_-_4.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"blue")["Fuck it, I want to see what's in it."] You feel Carmen wasn't completely honest about the reason for her getting evicted. You've been with her for a while, so you know her mannerisms, and she's been acting strange. [[You pick the album up and look through it.->You look through the album.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kustjc8x74/November_-_single4.mp3" autoplay>

(text-colour:"blue")[Maybe there's an explanation? maybe her brother? Cousin? I'm sure as hell going to find out.] You wait for her to come out of the shower [[to confront her.]] [[to fish it out of her.->to confront her.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kustjc8x74/November_-_single4.mp3" autoplay>

//She exits the bathroom.// [[Show her the picture.]] [[Throw the picture on the table in front of her.->Show her the picture.]]

With a guilty look on her face, she looks up at you. (text-color:"purple")[ "He's not important."] [["Tell me who he is."]] [["You better tell me who this asshole is."->"Tell me who he is."]]

//With a heavy sigh, she comes clean.//(text-color:"purple")[ "Okay, Matt. I haven't been completely honest with you."] [["Go on."]] [["I fucking knew it."->"Go on."]]

(text-color:"purple")[ "I don't like lying to you, okay? It's just that this seemed irrelevant, but I was thinking about telling you soon. That guy, we dated sometime back and he was the one who helped me get me my house."] [["So he's the 'landlord'?"]]

(text-color:"purple")[ "He cut me a good deal ... But when we broke up, he raised the rent and ... stalked me for a while. He fucking killed my dog and left it on my doorstep one day. Guy's a fucking psychopath."] (text-color:"blue")[ "When was this?"] (click:"When was this")[(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"purple")[ "Like, over a year back. He let me be after a while, but he recently found out that I'm dating you. So yeah, he kicked me out, just because of that."] [["Good thing he doesn't know where you are now."]] / [["Not a big deal, huh?"]] ]]

(text-color:"purple")[ "And hopefully it stays that way. I'm sorry for not telling you, I swear that's everything, you know everything about me."] [["Okay, I believe you."->"I'll take your word on that."]] [["I'll take your word on that."]]

(text-color:"blue")[ "I didn't think I'd see this picture again. I thought she got rid of it. The fucking lies."] (text-color:"white")[ //Damien Micheals.// Ex con, arrested for drug & weapon possession, He tried to make a living in real estate after being freed. ] [[But do old habits die hard?]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xsaftdy53f/Third_Gate_-_2.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[ (text-style:"shadow")[<h3>The following story is inspired by real life events.</h3>]<div class="mainheader"> <h3>(text-style:"fade-in-out")[[[Begin->SP]]]</h3> [[How to play]] / [[Story layout]]</div> (text-color:"red")[//(please read before starting)//] <div class="mainheader"> [[Gallery]] / [[Submit art]] / [[Report an error]] [[Trailer]] / [[Credits]] ] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/rYX374z.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

(text-color:"blue")[ "Time to track this motherfucker down."] (text-colour:"white")[ Jumping to conclusions: it was way easier to blame someone else than to admit your own mistakes. [[Your mistakes?]] Relationships can be happy, they can make you feel ecstatic, loved, like you have a purpose in the world ... But they can go estranged, dark, evil, psychotic ...] (text-color:"blue")[ "He took her. He took her, I fucking know it."] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/ewb1mfap1h/Third_Gate_-_3.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ Maybe it was that fight you had over liking that girl's picture? Maybe you were too boring? Didn't show enough interest? Maybe you were too busy with work? Maybe things died off?] (text-color:"blue")[ "How can he do this?"] (text-color:"white")[ You ignore the possibilities of her leaving, and [[track Damien down.]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/ewb1mfap1h/Third_Gate_-_3.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

{<img src="http://i.imgur.com/RuzzNXK.png" width="270"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/lqkwKQd.png" width="110">} [[Search for him on Instagram.]] [[Search his real estate website.]]

<p>//Search://   Damien Micheals (click:"Damien Micheals")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ damien_mike(click:"damien_mike")[(t8n:"dissolve")[   //Some kid.//]] damien_24(click:"damien_24")[(t8n:"dissolve")[   Ah, [[Got you.]]]] damienmicheals_420(click:"damienmicheals_420")[(t8n:"dissolve")[   //Some stoner, but not him.//]] damien_com(click:"damien_com")[(t8n:"dissolve")[   //Some teenager.//]] ]] </p>

There's not much personal information here besides a phone number. [[Call the number.]]

You read the comments on the latest picture //from 2 years ago.// (click:"read the comments")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ <p> (text-color:"blue")[kathy_rogers]   //R.I.P Damien, you will be missed! :'(// (text-color:"blue")[jack_17]   //You were a good man, rest in piece son x// (text-color:"blue")[tom_felton]   //R.I.P <3// (text-color:"blue")[judith_45]   //We love you, rest in piece ..// </p> (text-color:"blue")["No, this can't be."] //Your doorbell rings.// [[You answer the door.]] ]] <style> p { text-align: left } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ It's Damien. He draws a gun to your head. (text-color:"blue")[ "Don't!"] (click:"Don't!")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ He's gone. There's no one at the door. There wasn't anyone at the door. You're hallucinating. (text-color:"blue")["The fuck."] //You shut the door, baffeled, and// [[commence looking up Damien]] ]]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/58vvzafh0p/Heart_Beat_SOUND_EFFECT_.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[ You search for any piece of information that covers Damien's death. There's nothing. (text-color:"blue")[ "Strange, not even a news article. Shit, anoth - wait ..."] You find a small article. It reads: //Damien Micheals, 34, was involved in a horrific car crash involving two others. Forensics say he died on impact, leaving one of the occupants killed and another sustaining severe injuries.// (text-color:"blue")[ "Fucker was probably drunk."] It left you at a dead end once again. [[Call Maxine again.->call Maxine again.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qij2cxq20p/November_-_single7.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ The phone (text-style:"shudder")[rings] and (text-style:"shudder")[rings] //There's no answer. She knows it's you and doesn't like taking your calls when you talk about Carmen.// [[Change your number to private.]] ] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://mboxmp3.com/u/Phone_Ringing_8x-Mike_Koenig-696238708.mp3" autoplay>

//"Shift Real Estate, Cheryl speaking, how may I help you?"// (text-color:"blue")[ "Hi, I'd to speak to Damien."] (click:"Hi, I'd to speak to Damien.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ //"Err, I'm sorry to inform you that Damien isn't with us anymore, sir."// (text-color:"blue")[ "Do you know where he is?"]] (click:"Do you know where he is")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ //"Uhm, he passed away, sir. 2 years ago. Were you a customer of his?"// [[You cut the call.]] ]]]

(text-color:"blue")[ "No fucking way."] //Your doorbell rings.// [[You answer the door.]]

(text-color:"white")[ She still doesn't answer. (text-color:"blue")[ "Shit, shouldn't have called again so soon."] You just sit for a while, feeling helpless, feeling for alcohol. But that's not a good idea right now. Moments later, You hear //knocking,// which turns to //loud banging.// [[Someone is at the door.]] ] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/8k9jonfzqq/Door_Knock_and_Open_Sound_Effect_edit.mp3" autoplay>

While you're working, Carmen sees to the place and makes sure everything is in a neat condition. She doesnt have much to do, paid leave can be a wonder, but she gets bored and wishes she had [[more to do]], especially when she is on edge. <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/vae37nvt88/Lost_Within_-_single2.mp3" autoplay>

<b>She visits the stereo and turns the dial, releasing calm melodies, easing some tension. Long showers are soothing for her mind, so she steps in, feet flinching on the cold ceramic floor, Her mind is in shreds,(text-color:"purple")[ "will he really leave me alone now?"] She turns the dial, releasing thousands of lukewarm drops, darkening her hair and trickling down her back. Her eyes close repeatedly, but not for long periods. She is [[afraid]] that if she closes them for too long, she may open them to someone right in front of her, to someone standing right there, watching her.</b> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/DxawWhc.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/zkwruk5a8i/Easier_to_Fade_with_shower_LOW_VOL.mp3 " autoplay>

(transition:"dissolve")[ <b>//She turns the shower off and exits.// A gush of cold air hits her body, the music is louder, not having the shower to mask most of it. She walks naked around the house. A physical form of what she feels. Naked. She let Matt in, showed him her naked soul, and now she's naked and afraid, not only of love, but of the naked truth of Damien's [[intentions.]] </b>] <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/DxawWhc.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/v3fukt4sog/Easier_to_Fade_1_low_vol.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[<b>[[Matt's intentions]] were clear, and she knows he means no harm, but still, it's [[love.]] Any association with the emotion had been a bad one, and her body just learned to reject it, like a [[foreign substance.]] [[Flashbacks]] of her beaten mother crying on the floor were haunting, hurting; everytime [[she remembers]] it it leaves a tear rolling down her face. Her dad's [[bloody fists]], linked to an arm with [[alcohol]] runnning through the veins, the bloodshot eyes, the [[screaming]] ... Everytime it happened, she thought:(text-color:"purple")[ "why do humans fall in love if this is the consequence?"] [[Continue >]] </b>] <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/7lEwJeW.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 24 MARCH 2010</div> <div> Matt is a good man. But I'm still scared, not only of the possibility that this may not work, but of him as a whole, and that asshole. He's been taking that medication again, I asked him why and he doesn't respond. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. I looked it up and it brings up shit about the mind and heart. What the fuck, man. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 1 MARCH 2010</div> <div> Love? It's just a chemical reaction in your brain. So is happiness, sadness, lust, excitement ... I'm no fucking scientist but I can go on about this shit. Matt told me that he loved me today. I said it back, in vain I suppose. Fuck, I don't know what I feel anymore. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 15 JANUARY 2010</div> <div> "Drug abuse hotline" - that's what the sticker said, followed by the number, in bold black letters on my fridge. I've never touched drugs, my dad however, he's a junkie, and my mom wasn't subtle in her hints. I never felt the need for these substances, not until the pain became unbearable. I slit them, my wrists, I slit them. I had to take pain killers, one, two, ten, that felt right. My gosh, the pain, the blood, it was everywhere. But in the moment, I never thought about the consequences, I just wanted the feelings to go away, I sliced through my own hand, with a razor from my dad's shaving kit, just because of a temporary problem, leaving a permanent scar, a permanent reminder, of that horrible night. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 4 FEBRUARY 2009</div> <div> This emotional pain has a biological purpose. It teaches me about unhealthy patterns, yet I've been suppressing it for so long. Looking to friends, getting into romantic notions, it just returns, in my weaker moments when I'm crying under my covers, devastating my mind. Repeating this pattern of false hope and artificial happiness will just prolong it. From today, I welcome pain as my friend and let it teach me in a way that will leave me weaker in the moment, but stronger afterward. A friend once told me to choose my battles, this is mine, let me earn my name. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 17 NOVEMBER 2009</div> <div> I remember the day I left that house, it was bitter-sweet. I also remember the shit I went through, I mean how could I forget? I had to leave my mom with him, but I would be starting a new life. I love you, mom. I hope you forgive me. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 12 SEPTEMBER 2009</div> <div> He knew when he saw her eyes filled with tears and her mouth full of blood, that he should relent. But it only pushed him on, filling him with power. Only when she was weeping in agony and completely helpless on the floor, would he stop. He felt guilty in some way, but that never stopped him before and won't stop him again. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 29 JANUARY 2010</div> <div> I had my first alcoholic drink at 14, and didn't have another until I was 18. I hated it - the bitter taste lingering on your tongue even ages after you've had it was disgusting. However now, each drink I take seems like a better and better idea. I become more confident, more funny, and I can flirt with that guy I've been crushing on. I feel cool, like a pretty, witty teenager. I'll worry about the head-thumping hangover tomorrow. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 15 SEPTEMBER 2009</div> <div> The house would be filled with silence, but on some nights it would be manifested in screams, enough to send a pulsating shock to my heart and make my blood run cold. He would scream his whole body out, I'd run down to the edge of the stairs to peek at what's going on. His eyes would be wide with horror, his face rigid, and fists clenched with his nails digging deep into the palm of his hand. I knew what came next. </div> [[< Back->intentions.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[<b>She sits back and thinks about when she was a kid, when they were kids. She was often over at Maxine's house, it was a place to hide and she knew it, but not once was she ever made to feel unwelcomed. School was terrible everyday and home just rocked back and forth between comfort and harmful. She was never stable, more in her teenage years, but Maxine was always there for her. All the softness of a child replaced by sharp edges, but a bit of softness remains, honest advice, carefully phrased to cause no harm. Maxine was an anchor point in her sea of troubles, and she will always be [[grateful.]]</b>] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/o6nwgew63w/November_-_longer.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/7lEwJeW.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

A faint noise in the apartment interupted her train of thought. She wears fear like a shackle - it's a knife slowly turning in the gut, and a constant hammer on the head. She then [[thinks back]] to her greatest fear - she wasn't scared of spiders, heights or clowns, what scared her was being forgotten. However, now, she only hopes that [[he]] forgets her. [[Continue >->continue2]]

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 14 DECEMBER 2009</div> <div> Maxine visited today. It's been weeks and we finally got to hang out, go shopping, and most importantly just talk. It's like all my worries go away when I talk to her. I'm just so thankful that I have the freedom to see her whenever I want, and not be held back by my parents anymore. </div> [[< Back->grateful.]]

Hours go by, and it feels too long. She's still tense, afraid, and just wants Matt back home to make her feel safe. To her hopes, Matt finally returns, bringing with him some takeout from a local food joint. Some of her stress is [[relieved]], and they sit on the couch, embraced in each other's arms. <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/w8pqxs5mnu/Lost_Within_-_single_3.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="journal">JOURNAL EXTRACT, 14 MAY 2009</div> <div> I met this guy at a little party Maxine threw at her place, I actually like him. We spoke the whole time there and as he was speaking to me, all I could do was just picture us together, living a happy life. And turns out, he's in real estate and can help me out in getting a place for myself. Just what I need to get away from this freak house. </div> [[< Back->grateful.]]

(text-color:"blue")[ "There's no one there. I'm not answering it."] (text-color:"white")[ What if there really is?] (text-color:"blue")[ "No, fuck that."] (text-color:"white")[ You then hear someone screaming your name from the hallway outside. [[Open the door.->open door]] / [[Wait.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kdwuyadrta/Third_Gate_-_up.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ You open the door, and it's really her.] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Jeez, Matt. What the fuck is happening?"] [["Why weren't you taking my calls?"]] [["Carmen is still missing, I'm really worried, Maxine."]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/i5ucwg314h/Door_Open_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[ You wait a few seconds, and the knocking continues, but you hear a familiar voice. It sounds like Maxine. [[Let her in.->Open the door.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kdwuyadrta/Third_Gate_-_up.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "I'm here now, so tell me what's going on."] [["Carmen is still missing, I'm really worried, Maxine."]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "You know, it's about time you forgot about Carmen."] (text-color:"blue")[ "Are you serious??"] (click:"Are you serious")[(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Yeah, so do you wanna ... fuck?"] (text-color:"blue")[ "What the fuck, Maxine??"]] (click:"What the fuck, Maxine")[(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "What?? Looks like you could need it!"] (text-color:"white")[ [["And to think she calls you a bestfriend."]] / [["Well, I don't want to."]] ]]]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Hey, I'm just trying to help you!"] (text-color:"white")[ [["By offering me sex?"]]  /  [["Fuck off."]] ] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Very well, I was just trying to help."] (text-color:"white")[ [["By offering me sex?"]] / [["Fuck off."]] ] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "What else do you expect me to do?"] (text-color:"blue")[ "Nothing, just leave."] (text-color:"white")[ //She walks closer to you.//] (text-color:"blue")[ "Maxine, stay away from me."] (text-color:"white")[ //She takes her palm, looking deep into your eyes, and strokes your face.//] [["I'm serious."]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ //She walks closer to you.//] (text-color:"blue")[ "Maxine, stay away from me."] (text-color:"white")[ //She takes her palm, looking deep into your eyes, and strokes your face.//] [["I'm serious."]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ You open the door, and it's Maxine] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Jeez, Matt. What the fuck is happening?"] [["Why weren't you taking my calls?"]] [["Carmen is still missing, I'm really worried, Maxine."]] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/i5ucwg314h/Door_Open_Sound_Effect.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[ She then grabs you below the belt and slowly closes her eyes as she leans in to kiss you. [[Kiss her.]]   /   [[Push her away.]] ] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ She lays her soft lips on yours, it feels like velvet and smells like strawberries. She shuts the door behind her and you commence to kiss. It was wrong, but in the moment you weren't thinking straight, and all you could think of was Maxine's warm, bare body on [[yours.]] ] <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/1jbjocdp2w/Lost_Within_singleAMB2.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"White")[ She grabs your arms, preventing you from pushing her away, and commences to kiss all over your neck. It was at that moment, [[you were putty in her hands.->Kiss her.]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/vztd80759i/Lost_Within_singleAMB.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<div class="mainheader">21:45</div> You lay in bed after a long day of work. The client you're doing photography for is paying big for your shots, you wouldn't think that this is his [[first time]] getting involved in professional photography. <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/fkzypekzox/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_short.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"lightgrey")[ <b>First times: The first time you started talking as a baby, the first time you started walking, the first time you rode a bicycle, the first time in high school, the first time you had alcohol, the first time you smoked weed, the first girlfriend, the first kiss, the first sexual exprience ... They were all [[magical.]] </b>] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/zpksba178b/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_1.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/DrgTREV.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgrey")[<b>You lay in bed and think, which is typically just looking back on certain events in your life. You think back on your first girlfriend from time to time, which you had at age 17. It was weird, but you couldn't help but do so, she left you a lot to remember. You remember the first kiss you shared with her, on a Saturday night on the beach, illuminated by only the moon and a flickering light. It was your first, and her's too. Months later, you ended up making love to her, and of course, it was a first time for you both. The nerves were evident, but that was okay, you and her had a good understanding for one another, and loved each other [[greatly.]]</b>] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/zpksba178b/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_1.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/DrgTREV.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/vtrI5AG.png" width="200"> (text-style:"bold")[The next morning], you open your sleepy eyes and let out a yawn, relieved that you got all of your work done yesterday, meaning you can relax and [[spend the day with Carmen.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/fkzypekzox/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_short.mp3" autoplay>

You get ready for the day and then head to the kitchen; a quick check reveals that you need to [[do some grocery shopping.]] You inform Carmen and you both head out to the nearest supermarket. <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/fkzypekzox/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_short.mp3" autoplay>

You take a walk with Carmen beside you, holding hands, and thinking about how free you feel. Carmen, however, still felt a bit anxious, but she kept that to herself and tried to not let that bother her too much. Moments later, [[you arrive at the supermarket.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/ldaqdaivzv/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_4.mp3" autoplay>

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/KRsPF0t.png" width="300"> You enter and a gush of air from the airconditioner hits from above the door, and you feel a coolness on your skin after having walked in the sun for a while. You and Carmen shop around and occassionally make a pun or two with random items on the shelves. You could have fun anywhere [[together.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/lgu1wqg81c/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_3.mp3" autoplay>

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/KRsPF0t.png" width="300"> A half hour later, you're done and ready to cash up. You cash up, and after one last hit of air by the aircon, you're [[on your way home.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/fkzypekzox/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_short.mp3" autoplay>

Almost home, you encounter some shady characters in a quiet hallway in your apartment building. They come up to Carmen. (click:"They come up to Carmen.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ //The guy eyes Carmen from head to toe.// (text-color:"red")["Damien's girl, yeah?"] (text-color:"blue")[ "She's my girl."]] (click:"She's my girl.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-color:"red")["Wasn't talking to you, mate."] [["Well I'm talking to you."]] [["You better back off."]] ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/6dpfgbj9nw/Third_Gate_-_4.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"red")[ "Don't talk to me. You don't want to do that, I'm talking to the girl; Damien wanted me to give this to you."] //He hands Carmen a little hand decorated box, and then proceeds to walk away, whilst having a stare off with you.// [["Open it."]] [["Throw it away."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/lnwrpqyh1a/Third_Gate_-_updown.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"red")[ "Or else what? What the fuck can you do?"] [["Just leave."->"Well I'm talking to you."]] [["You better leave before I fuck you up."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xsaftdy53f/Third_Gate_-_2.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"red")[ "You got a deathwish, mate?"] //He reveals a gun tucked in the front of his pants.// [["We just want to get home, what do you want?"->"Well I'm talking to you."]] / [["Going to shoot me, 'mate'?"]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xsaftdy53f/Third_Gate_-_2.mp3" autoplay>

//He reaches for the gun.// (text-color:"purple")[ "Matt, what are you doing??"] [["Fuck this guy, he's not going to do shit."]] / [["Shoot me, I dare you."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/ewb1mfap1h/Third_Gate_-_3.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"purple")[ "You're sure? It's quite suspicious."] (text-color:"blue")[ "I'll open it."] //Carmen hands you the box, you look at it for a while, and as you walk back to your apartment, you contemplate whether you should just get rid of it or find out what's inside.// [[Open the box.]] / [[Throw it away.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kdwuyadrta/Third_Gate_-_up.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"purple")[ "Are you sure? Don't you want to know what's inside?"] [["Might as well check."]] [[No, get rid of it."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kdwuyadrta/Third_Gate_-_up.mp3" autoplay>

You slowly open the box, and it is revealed that there is a gun keychain inside, accompanied by a note. It reads: //"I'm turning myself in for you."// You feel uneasy and show Carmen the contents. (text-color:"blue")[ "What does this mean?"] Carmen just stares at the note, deep in thought, she says nothing. [["Carmen!"]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/xsaftdy53f/Third_Gate_-_2.mp3" autoplay>

You're about to throw it away, but Carmen then stops you. (text-color:"purple")[ "You know what, I need to know what's in it, for peace of mind."] (text-color:"blue")[ "Okay, if you're sure then let's check."] [[Open the box.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/lnwrpqyh1a/Third_Gate_-_updown.mp3" autoplay>

//Carmen hands you the box, you look at it for a while, and as you walk back to your apartment, you contemplate whether you should just get rid of it or find out what's inside.// [[Open the box.]] / [[Throw it away.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/kdwuyadrta/Third_Gate_-_up.mp3" autoplay>

She gets startled and looks up at you. (text-color:"purple")[ "It ... means what it says, Matt."] You then [[get rid of it.]]

(text-color:"white")[ You feel guilty, but it also feels right.] (text-color:"blue")[ "Why ... why am I doing this?"] (text-color:"white")[ //Maxine overhears you talking to yourself.//] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Hey, are you okay?"] [["Uhm, yeah. I'm fine."]] [["No I'm not, we shouldn't have done this."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qij2cxq20p/November_-_single7.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "I'm really glad you're doing well and feeling better now."] (text-color:"blue")[ "But ..."] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "It will be fine, it's good that you've come to your senses."] [["She's still missing, Maxine."->"No I'm not, we shouldn't have done this."]] [["Why don't you care about her?"]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/cdgpw6nwyx/November_-_single8.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ "I thought you were feeling better and coming to your senses?"] (text-color:"blue")[ "What?"] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "I've told you, it's time you forgot about her!"] (text-color:"blue")[ "I don't want to be with you, Maxine. You will never be my girlfriend!"] (text-color:"white")[ //She just stands there, looking at you, whilst her eyes fill up with tears.//] [["I'm sorry."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/mu0t7c1rmu/November_-_5.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ //She gives you a look, and pauses for a while before responding://] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "I did."] [["But why not now??"->"No I'm not, we shouldn't have done this."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/qij2cxq20p/November_-_single7.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<div class="mainheader"><h3>4 years later ...</h3></div> <b>A lot happens in 4 years. Your relationship with Carmen grew, and so did your photography business. Carmen left her positon in the law firm she worked for and joined you, and it was the best thing to work beside the girl you love and watch how her amatuer photography developed over the years. She picked on your habits and you picked on hers. You now have a [[journal]], just like her. </b> <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/x48u9ocwkl/QUEEN_OF_THE_SKIES_-_1.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/R5mOZWl.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

<div class="journal"> [[Journal Entry: 24 October 2013]] [[Journal Entry: 3 February 2014]] [[Journal Entry: 19 February 2014]] [[Journal Entry: 6 March 2014]] [[Journal Entry: 29 June 2014]] <div class="mainheader"> [[Photography scrapbook->Scrapbook]] [[Continue >->continue3]] <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/R5mOZWl.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style>

<div class="mainheader"> //The business is going downhill. competitors are fucking me up and my site's servers crashed. I discussed it with Carmen and she's prepared to help me a lot during this period. Apart from that, she does everything around the apartment since I don't have time. I'm too busy trying to get my business back on track. What would I do without her?// <div class="journal"> [[< Back->journal]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="mainheader"> //I still can't believe everything worked out. The business is constantly blooming and I'm earning more than I've ever had! I was thinking about getting a house for us, the apartment is great but something a little bigger and more homey would be good for us.// <div class="journal"> [[< Back->journal]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="mainheader"> //I've bought it, finally! Pricy, but she's worth every cent. Of course, I haven't done this before, but I've got a few ideas on a way to ask her, romantically.// <div class="journal"> [[< Back->journal]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="mainheader"> //So today is my birthday. I really don't like birthdays. It's just the date of which you were born, I know it's suppose to be special, but I just don't get the point. Carmen got me cake and she took me out for dinner. She kept it really cool, until she told me that my family is throwing me a party. I didn't want to go, I hate parties. But they're my family, and I appreciate their efforts. It wasn't that bad. I got to see my parents again and my dad is looking good; I'm so glad that he's getter better and his hospital visits are less frequent.// <div class="journal"> [[< Back->journal]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="mainheader"> //It's been months since I've bought the ring, I just can't find it in myself to make a move. Today didn't help either. Carmen introduced me to one of her bestfriends, and turns out she's a girl I hooked up with in highschool. Fucking awkward. I'm just glad that we only made out.// <div class="journal"> [[< Back->journal]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sm3qg3zhd9/Page_Turn.mp3" autoplay>

<div class="mainheader">17 August 2014</div> You've bought your first car only a month ago, and you treat it as your own child. It made travelling way easier as you did not have to walk or take a cab to certain places. You and Carmen made plans to visit the new restaurant that just opened today. Carmen went out earlier with friends and told you to pick her up on the way. So you get ready, and [[pick Carmen up.]]

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/5Blvwxw.png" width="400"> (text-color:"blue")[ "Put your seatbelt on."] (text-color:"purple")[ "N'awh, that's a lowkey 'I love you'."] [["Ha, I guess it is."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/sni3lwm5wx/November_-_single3.mp3" autoplay>

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/p7cQarZ.png" width="400"> You're on your way to dinner. You love little dates like this with her, & apparently this restaurant has a fancy setting so it may be the perfect place to propose. You carry the ring around everywhere, waiting on the perfect moment; you just hope that you could do it [[tonight.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/cdgpw6nwyx/November_-_single8.mp3" autoplay>

(text-color:"white")[ You left Maxine crying, and you now feel bad. Try to comfort her.] (click:"Try to comfort her.")[(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ //She wipes the tears from her eyes, and in a broken voice, asks://] (text-color:"lightgreen")["Can I take you for a drive?"] (text-color:"blue")["Where to?"] (text-color:"lightgreen")["Can you just come, please?"] (text-color:"white")[ You figure this will make her feel better, so you [[go ahead with it.]] ]]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/fkzypekzox/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_short.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ On your way to wherever Maxine is taking you, various thoughts rush through your mind:] (text-color:"blue")[ Where is Carmen? What is Maxine doing? Where is she taking me? I didn't know she liked me.] (text-color:"white")[ Moments later, she slows down to what appears to be a park.] (text-color:"blue")[ Is she going in here?] (text-color:"white")[ She is, she enters and parks off in a spot.] [[Get out of the car.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/7kcsmc41df/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_2.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"blue")[ "What is this place?"] (click:"What is this place")[(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Just walk with me, please."] (text-color:"white")[ You proceed to follow Maxine through a massive gate. It's a cemetry.] [[You are confused.]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/zpksba178b/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_1.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"blue")[ "What are we doing here, Maxine?"] (click:"What are we doing here, Maxine")[(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-color:"white")[ She doesn't answer you, but you follow her for a while until she stops. Cemetries made you feel uneasy, it gave you anxiety of some sort that cannot be explained. Maxine stops. //She points at a specific gravestone.//](text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Look."] [[You look down at the gravestone.]] ]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/fkzypekzox/IN_YOUR_ARMS_-_short.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[ //Maxine starts crying again.//] (text-color:"lightgreen")["She's dead, Matt. Has been for the past 2 years."] (text-color:"white")[ //You slowly kneel to the ground.//](text-color:"blue")[ "No. No. She ... she's not ..."] (text-color:"white")[//It gets harder to breathe, yet you scream out://] (text-color:"blue")["HOW???"] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Don't you remember the accident? It was horrifying, even killed another guy. I thought you were getting better."] [["What?"->what??]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/7ltswf4tu3/November_-_3.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"lightgreen")[ You got brain damage in an accident you had with Carmen. A car smashed you on the side, and unfortunately it hit the side Carmen was on. She didn't make it, Matt. I'm sorry."] (text-color:"blue")[ "No, Maxine. I'd remember that."] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "Matt ... it really happened ... you're just ... not well."] (text-color:"blue")[ "What do you mean?"] (text-color:"lightgreen")[ "I need to take you to your doctor. The police gave him a call and he needs to see you. He'll explain everything."] [[Continue >->continue5]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/mu0t7c1rmu/November_-_5.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

<div class="mainheader">(text-color:"white")[ Written & created by [[Zane Fulton]] Co-writer & editor [[Shanice Taylor]] Cover art by <a href="http://pexels.com" target="_blank">Pexels</a> Images provided by <a href="http://pixabay.com" target="_blank">pixabay</a> <a href="http://pexels.com" target="_blank">Pexels</a> <a href="http://goodfreephotos.com" target="_blank">goodfreephotos</a> Images hosted by <a href="http://imgur.com" target="_blank">Imgur</a> Sounds by <a href="http://soundbible.com" target="_blank">Soundbible</a> [[Music]] provided by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCht8qITGkBvXKsR1Byln-wA" target="_blank">Audio Library</a> Outro music performed by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9gam7qOW84" target="_blank">Dominique Sheridan</a> Song: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czEjLM9b6VM"_blank">Art School Wannabe by Soriety Noise</a> Fonts by <a href="http://fonts.google.com" target="_blank">Google Fonts</a> Created in Twine 2.0 using Harlowe. [[Back to Main Menu->MAIN MENU]] ] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/fis3pkhv6n/art_school_wannabe_-_sorority_noise_acoustic_cover_edit.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-image:url("http://i.imgur.com/ydnqsjm.jpg"); background-size: cover; /* or contain */ background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; text-align:center; margin:auto; padding:0; } </style> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

(text-color:"white")[She didn't want to tell you. Your girlfriend didn't want to tell you when you've already endured so much of the truth.] (text-color:"blue")[ "Maxine's my girlfriend now?"] (text-color:"white")[ She is, and I don't expect you to remember. You've had mild dementia for quite a while, and the accident made things worse. It caused ... pretty bad brain damage. And again, I am sorry for your loss. But ... do you know that this is the 6th time this year I've had to refresh your memory? Please don't stop your medication again, Matt. //You let out a sigh, feeling hopeless. This is what your life has come to, and there's nothing you can do but reluctingly accept it, and hope that one day, you get to see her again.//] [["You have my word, doctor."]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/8ehzl36ljz/QUEEN_OF_THE_SKIES_-_outro.mp3" autoplay> <style> body { background-color: #000000; } </style>

Thank you for playing! Creating and writing this story was a thrill to do and I enjoyed every bit of it. I know it's a bit edgy and treads on sensitive topics, but this merely creates awareness. Feedback is welcome as I would love to know what you think of the game! All efforts have been made to identify errors, however, if you find any please feel free to let me know. Copyright belongs to the respective sources, and all content used has been linked in the credits. [[< back->"You have my word, doctor."]]

Being apart of the creation process of this game was an absolute pleasure. The story is original and authentic, and one that I've thoroughly enjoyed reading and co-writing. The themes highlighted were, in my opinion, bold and well delivered. I hope you have enjoyed playing this game as much as I have enjoyed working on it. [[< back->"You have my word, doctor."]]

This story is mostly linear in style, however there are multiple choices you can make that change how it plays out. It jumps from present day, 2016 to chapters, which take place in 2010. <b>Please note</b>, for the best experience, playing on a PC/laptop is recommended due to the fact that this game was designed for PC. A good internet connection is required for loading images and sounds seamlessly. It is playable on mobile phones, however, sounds and music <b>will not</b> work, images may cut off and become distorted, and text may not be viewable in certain areas. If you're using a mobile phone, <b>Chrome browser</b> is recommended. [[< back->Inspired]]

Here you can view a collection of some of the images featured in the game, as well as the ones that didn't make it into the final build. //(text-color:"red")[Warning:] <b>Potential Spoilers</b> ahead. The following extras are recommended to be viewed after finishing the game.// [[Take me to the gallery >]] [[< back->Inspired]]

Do you have a piece of artwork or photography that you think would be a great addition to this project? If so, submit your piece in an email to <a href="http://gmail.com" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>, and paste in the passage you think it would best fit into. [[< back->Inspired]]

Spelling error? Bad grammer? Broken links or passages? If so, please report the matter on the game's official <a href="https://zanefulton24.wixsite.com/nightsinboulder" target="_blank">website</a>, or email me at [email protected]. [[< back->Inspired]]

<div class="mainheader"> Written & created by Zane Fulton Co-writer & editor Shanice Taylor Cover art by <a href="http://pexels.com" target="_blank">Pexels</a> Images provided by <a href="http://pixabay.com" target="_blank">pixabay</a> <a href="http://pexels.com" target="_blank">Pexels</a> <a href="http://goodfreephotos.com" target="_blank">goodfreephotos</a> Images hosted by <a href="http://imgur.com" target="_blank">Imgur</a> Sounds by <a href="http://soundbible.com" target="_blank">Soundbible</a> [[Music->music2]] provided by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCht8qITGkBvXKsR1Byln-wA" target="_blank">Audio Library</a> Outro music performed by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSFlXhasOIjshymafTCWzgg" target="_blank">Dominique Sheridan</a> Song: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czEjLM9b6VM"_blank">Art School Wannabe by Soriety Noise</a> Fonts by <a href="http://fonts.google.com" target="_blank">Google Fonts</a> Created in Twine 2.0 using Harlowe. [[< back->Inspired]]

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/Dlrs9ME.jpg"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/SFEqNmk.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/v9e20Id.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/4DnqQcx.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/fCgCnTZ.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/up0lHN4.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/hkNd0E5.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/i79H8HD.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/VicTnmT.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/FPlqCfc.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/xjEZDJn.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/tUwnNvx.jpg" width="900"> [[Matt's photography]] [[< back->Inspired]]

(text-color:"purple")[ "I'm sorry for not telling you, I swear that's everything, you know everything about me."] [["I'll take your word on that."]] / [["Okay, I believe you."->"I'll take your word on that."]]

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/5Blvwxw.png" width="400"> Moments later, you pick her up from the nearby avenue, where she spent the day with her friends. //She gets in the car, and is happy to see you.// (text-color:"purple")["I missed you!"] [["I missed you too."->drive to the restaurant.]] <audio src="http://k003.kiwi6.com/hotlink/4ngff9bb39/November_-_single2.mp3" autoplay>

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/DMLKOKZ.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/1kxCncI.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/SBDRps6.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/6tfR7Sp.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/QNrYT2k.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/PO7Nsc9.jpg" width="900"> <img src="http://i.imgur.com/VbEquIa.jpg" width="900"> [[< back->Gallery]]

<div class="mainheader"> You can view a trailer of the game to get an idea on what it's about. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_8M8_tyF5Q" _blank">View trailer</a> [[< back->Inspired]]

<b>November by BENSOUND</b> <a href="http://www.bensound.com/royalty-free" target="_blank">http://www.bensound.com<a/> Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... Music provided by Audio Library <a href="https://youtu.be/KRv4OMozxos" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/KRv4OMozxos</a> <b>Hi, be mine by Muciojad</b> <a href="https://soundcloud.com/muciojad" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/muciojad</a> Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... Music provided by Audio Library <a href="https://youtu.be/FJNe8mL4yKs" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/FJNe8mL4yKs</a> <b>Third Gate by Wydron</b> <a href="https://soundcloud.com/wydron" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/wydron</a> Creative Commons — Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported— CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... Music provided by Audio Library <a href="https://youtu.be/s5_tgRX7BIA" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/s5_tgRX7BIA</a> <b>Easier to Fade (feat. Madi Larson) by A Himitsu</b> <a href="https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu</a> Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... <b>IN YOUR ARMS by Nicolai Heidlas Music</b> <a href="https://soundcloud.com/nicolai-heidlas" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/nicolai-heidlas</a> Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... Music provided by Audio Library <a href="https://youtu.be/tkYNuH1UrSY" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/tkYNuH1UrSY</a> <b>Lost Within by A Himitsu</b> <a href="https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu</a> Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... <b>QUEEN OF THE SKIES by Nicolai Heidlas Music</b> <a href="https://soundcloud.com/nicolai-heidlas" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/nicolai-heidlas</a> Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... Music provided by Audio Library <a href="https://youtu.be/1StjgRTfJg4" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/1StjgRTfJg4</a> [[< back->"You have my word, doctor."]]

Upon reading the extract/passage, click on the (text-color:"blue")[dark blue] links to proceed. <b>Test it out:</b> [[Click here]]

Perfect, so this is how you proceed throughout the entire game. [[< back->Inspired]]