Plagued

EIGHT

The sun had begun to set, the sky turning a darker blue, before black.

"What do I do?"

Those thoughts had been consuming me.

I started to pick at my nails as I walked home.

The voices, that house, seeing things... It was all just so confusing, so scary, so...

"What has been happening?"

There must have been some sort of reason for all of that happening. Perhaps I am just coming up with a nasty cold? Ear infection perhaps? I've heard those can cause hallucinations.

As I made my way closer to home, I found myself growing more nervous.

Sure, ghosts are terrifying- but at least they are not a real threat. My parents on the other hand, are the real worry in the situation.

I stood at the edge of the drive. I had the sudden urge to run. My stomach was in a knot, knowing I would be in trouble for breaking curfew.

A deep breath escaped me, I knew there was no way to avoid it.

I walked up to the front door and stepped inside.

"I'm home."

I locked the door behind me.

The feeling in my stomach had only worsened by my mother's voice.

"Oh goodness Eva, finally you're home! You had us worried sick. We ate at the dinner table without you, your food is in the refrigerator."

She was trying to hide her irritation. But I could still hear it in her voice, only making me feel worse than I already did. But not wanting to acknowledge it, I chose to avoid conflict.

"Thank you for saving it for me"

I shot a quick smile to her, trying to make my way towards the fridge. On a small plate was some oven-cooked chicken nuggets and fries.

"You're welcome, dear."

I take the plate out and place it in the microwave. After setting the timer, I waited for the food to warm.

"So, what were you doing to have come home at this hour?"

I had hoped to avoid that conversation entirely, but there was no use in trying. When that woman wanted answers, she would get them.

Trying to buy time, I just kept my answers vague.

"Oh... well, you know. I was just with Sam and Mike. You know them, sometimes we lose track of time."

She was not satisfied with that answer.

"Oh, I'm sure you just rushed home, didn't you?"

She shoots a look of detest my way. She has always been good at putting people down, guilting them into the truth.

The microwave beeps, allowing me to turn away from her for a moment. Hoping she won't catch my lie.

"Of course, the three of us were at the mall and didn't realize what time it was until the security guard told us the shops were closing. I wasn't trying to be late."

She was still aggravated but had no other question to ask me, after a frustrated sigh, she leaves the room.

"Alright then."

I sat down with my 'meal' and ate in silence.

My mind was still running from all the questions I had. Each answer less likely than the next.