Tape of Shadows

Chapter 1: A New Beginning

Friday, April 13th

Exhausted and relieved, I stood before the old house, my hands throbbing with pain from carrying my heavy suitcases. This was it—the start of a new chapter in my life. Leaving behind my parents and the familiarity of my home country, I had embarked on a journey to Canada for my higher studies. The scholarship had brought me here, to this land of opportunities, and now I stood at the threshold of my rented abode, eager to embrace the challenges and adventures that awaited me.

The house, though weathered and worn, had an inexplicable charm to it. Its affordability had caught my attention, making it an ideal choice for a student like me. As I stared at its faded facade, doubts crept into my mind. Was there something more to this place than met the eye? Pushing aside my hesitations, I took a deep breath and reminded myself that it was just a house—a place where I would find temporary shelter.

With a friendly smile, the elderly lady who lived upstairs handed me the key. Her voice, tinged with a hint of fragility, welcomed me to my new home. I thanked her graciously, hoping that our cohabitation would be pleasant and peaceful.

Unlocking the door, I stepped into the house, greeted by the stagnant air that had settled within its walls. The room I had rented on the ground floor was modestly furnished but covered in a layer of dust. The weariness that had accumulated from my long journey overpowered my desire to unpack immediately. Dropping my suitcases unceremoniously on the floor, I decided to indulge in a well-deserved rest.

The bed, covered in a thin film of dust, seemed inviting despite its neglected state. I brushed away some of the grime and sank into its worn-out embrace. Fatigue washed over me, and as I closed my eyes, I could feel sleep's grasp pulling me under.

Within the realm of my slumber, dreams intertwined with memories and uncertainties. Shadows danced, their ethereal forms whispering secrets that only the ancient walls of this house could comprehend. Oblivious to the enigmatic presence that surrounded me, I surrendered to the darkness, unaware that the tapestry of my destiny had begun to unravel.

Friday, April 13th marked the beginning of my new life—a life intertwined with the mysteries and eerie tales that lay dormant within the aged walls of this house. Little did I know that each tick of the clock would unveil a world shrouded in darkness, where secrets and revelations awaited. As I surrendered myself to sleep, I embarked on a journey into the depths of the unknown, guided by the presence of the old house on this shadowy street.