Shadows Amongst Us

Chapter 1: The Attic

I never quite liked visiting my grandparents but after my parents passed away, it was where I'd be staying from now on. I had set my luggage on the floor just before the staircase to the attic. Something about the smell of this old house brought a sinister feel up my spine. I suppose I never should have watched 'The Visit' at my friend's house. Maybe I just felt a little paranoid, but something about this house gave me an unsettling feeling. I'm sure I was just unhappy with what had happened with my parents and the feeling I had was anxiety. That, or this is all a nightmare and I've got sucked into one of my video games like Resident Evil 7.

My granddad startled me as he put his hand on my shoulder.

"Ready to see your new room?" He smiled at me but my insides were still trying to calm down. I nodded.

"Right this way, Oliver."

I followed him all the way upstairs to the attic with my luggage swaying as I walked each step. So far so good, I thought to myself. My granddad seems nice enough to not be a secret alien or serial killer or something. I haven't really seen my grandmother yet though. Perhaps she was a serial killer or an alien? There's also a possibility that I read and watch too much horror and sci-fi. I'm guessing that's the reason for my absurd accusations.

As I reach the last step I almost stumble backwards at my granddad's suddenly still figure right in front of me. Why stop on the very last step? Perhaps he saw something that spooked him? Nah, I just need to stop with these fantasies. Maybe make a movie instead? He finally begins to move again and leads me into my new room; the attic. Yes, the most, creepiest place in any house in the movies. Especially horror films.

I follow behind him and step foot inside the attic. I'm sure it won't be as bad as in the movies. Though most movies and television shows are based on at least some truths. That's it; I'm doomed. I should have never left my house. I quickly was snapped right out of my thoughts. Is that really my new bed?

A beautifully decorated bed was placed in the corner of the room with pillows and my old quilt. This place isn't that bad after all. On a plus side, I won't have to share my room with anyone and I'll be safe from any apocalypse that may strike within the next five to ten years. Though I'm sure my grandparents would be the firsts to turn into a flesh eating zombie, after my brains because I am really smart. Also, my friends back home say that the smarter you are the more you'll be liked. In other words, they'll love eating my brains. I'll make a mental note to dumb down this year. For the sake of the universe; they'll need my brains to conduct a cure for the virus.

"What do you think of your new room, kiddo?"

"It's perfect." I half smiled. It's hard to keep a happy face during this time.

I know I'm not expected to, but I feel bad for my grandparents, so I'll just put a brave face on for them. As soon as my granddad leaves I unpack my things and lay down on my bed. The mattress is soft like sheep's wool and it's a true comfort. Back when I was growing up, I lived on a farm with my mum and dad. I used to help my father with the sheep and usually watched him as he took all the wool off the sheep. The acted as though nothing was even happening to them. Like they weren't having all their wool shaved off their bodies; exposing their naked little sheep skin. For a good many years I wanted to be a sheep too.

Thinking about that just reminds me that my parents no longer are with me. I have to face the world alone now. No more friendly hands to guide my way or tuck me in at night. Doesn't matter that I'm twelve years old; I still got tucked in. I still want to be tucked in. Being tucked in is like your parents are showing you that you are safe and tucked in their loving embrace. I'm sure that either sounds cheesy or too deep for someone like me to come up with, but I don't care.

I quickly got dressed into my pajamas and began brushing my teeth in the mini bathroom connected to the attic. My teeth had only just been set free from the awfully uncomfortable braces they had been trapped in for a while. I finally liked my teeth. Before, I had always thought they looked crooked and now they look perfect. I spit out the toothpaste and rinse my mouth and toothbrush under hot water. Then I crawl into my covers and attempt to fall asleep. It takes some time, but I eventually manage to close my eyes and drift off. But something glowing in the distance makes my eyes flutter open in curiosity.