Little Red

Chapter 1: Red

She'd always wondered why her days were filled with a sense of chills. Not the kind where she'd shiver from the cold to unconsciously keep warm, but the sort where she found herself shuddering from the keen point she felt on her back.

As if she were being watched.

It was ridiculous, she knew. She was watched everyday whether it be the townspeople, the children, or her overbearing mother.

But...

From time to time it would feel... different. The attention she felt on her person— it felt unique.

"Scarlet," came the soft demand of her mother.

Withholding a sigh, she stood from her place in the bedroom and walked towards the sound where her mother's voice had resonated.

"Yes?"

A wrinkle was present between her brows and Scarlet gently wiped it smooth. Her mother offered her a strained smile. "Your grandmother hasn't written to us in weeks. I'm a little worried."

Frowning herself, Scarlet noticed the neat basket of goodies being filled rapidly to the brim upon the kitchen table. "I could visit-"

"No!" came a frantic shout and Scarlet, wide-eyed, stayed in shocked silence. Her mother blinked and blinked once more, obviously shocked at her own abrupt yell. In a more calm manner, she searched to rectify her previous mistake. "What I- What I mean is... It's... The woods are a dangerous place. The world is a dangerous place. Oh sweetheart don't give me that look."

Scarlet cast her eyes away. "I'm confined to the house, to the town line if I'm lucky. Why won't you let me go anywhere else? The other kids do it. Even the ones who are younger than me."

"I'm protecting you."

"Please," she said in exasperation. "I haven't seen the world beyond... beyond what you'd let me-"

"And it's for good reason."

"I've done everything you've asked me to do. I've kept the cloak on and I haven't asked any questions. I've been good for the last 19 years." Scarlet winced. "I should even be married by now and I don't even have that."