Inside the mind of a Killer

Ch. I

Leaving the comfort of my apartment at two o'clock in the morning was something I'd rather not do. But if I wanted even a wink of sleep or more than the hour-or-so I normally get, I needed to. Sleep has become something of a rarity in my case; so rare I'd have more of a chance to win the lottery than getting a full seven hours of sleep. So, my journey starts off by going to the local market.

Medication seems like the only solution at this point, though, I hate taking it. I would go to the doctor for my sleeping disorder but it seems like a hassle. Also, I don't like doctors, my history with them is rough.

Taking a brisk exit of my car, I head to the entrance of Anne's Market. The market is ran by a close-knit family. They're known by all and loved by all; the surrounding townspeople trust them. Heck, this is my go-to place for all my needs. They pretty much have everything from small essentials to hardware.

Pulling my hoodie over my nose, I try to barricade it from cold harsh winds. December, not my favorite month out of the year, but I'll manage. The cold and I have never gotten along, and frankly, I wouldn't be out in it if I had my way.

Before I enter the luscious heated building I take a quick glance outside the store. About five vehicles litter the parking lot, that's including mine. 'That's because normal people are not crazy enough to be out this late in the middle of December!' I mentally scolded myself, but then remind myself why I'm here. Sleep medication.

Entering the heavenly heated store I relish in the sudden comfort that washes over my body. I could almost fall asleep right here, standing at the entrance of this store. Though, if I did actually manage to fall asleep and stay asleep: one, it would be a miracle; two, I don't think I'd feel the same way when the owners find me passed out on their floor.

Speaking of owners, they normally greet you when you first walk in. I've been in the store early in the morning before and they still greet you, though, it's a different person because they take shifts. Maybe they're busy in the back or something; maybe they're taking a break?

Taking a much needed deep breath, while still having thoughts about the owners, I walk further into the store.

This place has been in my life for years; ever since I was little I've been coming to this store.

My mother took me here occasionally when I was a child and in my mind, I thought this place was magical. Every time I would come here there would be something new for me to look at. And what amazed me the most was the hardware section of the store, all the massive tools lined up on the shelves. I would always try to picture what those tools were used for.

Reaching the medication aisle, I quietly relive the happy memories of my mother for a couple of seconds. Looking down at the medication I sigh, life back then was so easy. Every day was beautiful and bright, I had nothing to worry about and my life was well put together. I was happy. Unlike now; now my life is a mess.

As a habit, I spend an extended amount of time reading each label. Pointing my index finger at the boxes and gliding it against each one, I carefully examine their labels.

Grabbing the correct/required medication for sleeping I look over the box once more. Hopefully, this works. I can't take these sleepless nights anymore. Turning around without haste, I begin walking back up to the front of the store to pay.

Reaching the front I look around to find no one. It's like a ghost town, I haven't even seen any other customers pass by. The owner is still not here either.

Placing the medication on the counter I continue to let my eyes wander around the store. Tapping my finger on the counter impatiently, I look back at the medication. "If only I didn't need you," I whisper towards the inanimate object sitting on the counter.

"Why do you need it?"

Startled and slightly terrified, my body instinctively twisted around to face the source of the sudden voice. Not expecting the view I got I stepped back only to hit a shelf next to the counter. As I stared at the source, several items fell off the shelf and clattered to the ground. I paid them no mind. All of my attention was on the, what I think is a man, in front of me.

A man in a strange black suit with a horrid looking white mask.