The Monster Beneath The Hood

A Stroll In The Woods

Branches snapped as I hurriedly made my way through the crowded woods. The echoes of lost animals crowed, breaking through the treetops and leaving me with chills.

I pulled my hood farther up, trying to block it all out. But the sounds still rang through, clear and strong. All I could think was,
"I need to hurry."

As I leaped over a stream, something caught my eye. Movement in the distance.
Hurry. Hurry.

I slipped the basket farther up my arm revealing my wrist baring a scar. I cringed as past memories came rushing back.
Hurry. Hurry.

The voices were getting louder as I transitioned to a sprint. As long as I beat the shadow I was safe.

As if on cue, the trees behind me started to tremble, as if they were trying to run themselves.

I felt my body shake as I gained speed.
Hurry, hurry!

The voice gave a quaking laugh as if they heard my silent screams of terror.

I felt tears roll down my cheeks as I blinked them away, determined to out run this monster.

To my relief, the trees surrounding this hunt began to thin out and the shadow chasing its prey, slowed. I felt my breath catch in my throat as I strained for more. My legs began to lock as if telling me I couldn't go on any longer.

Luckily for me, my destination was finally in view. I sprinted to the cabin, that was located in a clearing, and threw open the door making sure to quickly lock it behind me.

I collapsed onto the floor, my back against where I just came. I was finally safe...for now.

The voices stopped momentarily allowing me to rest and calm my nerves. Hoping they never came back, but I knew wishful thinking never got me anywhere.

As I lifted my head, gaining the strength to stand, I walked through the hallway. Walls lined with dust, I dragged my hand against a board running from the door to the open living room.

"What a homely living space" I thought to myself. My fingers stopped at a light switch. Carefully, I flicked the switch on, and as the lights flickered before finally settling, I saw what was so special about this place. Who was so special.