I heard you were ill,

So I wanted to say.

That I said a prayer

To take it away.

Sending a gift

Of spiritual love.

Granting you favor

From creation above.

I pray your healing,

Is heavenly fast,

God hear my pleas,

And make it last.

I'm

I'm

The bomb exploded right beside me. Throwing me violently off my feet. I was stunned momentarily.

How did you find me?

Did I not flit through the trees fast enough?

Were you watching me the whole time?

I carefully searched my body for injury. I'm okay, a bit shaken. My ears are ringing terribly. But I'm alive. Intact.

I roll on my stomach in the dirt

The recent storm had caused the area to turn muddy, slippery.

I found no obvious sign of trespass in my vicinity, so I ran.

My vision, a bit fuzzy at first clears as I vacate the area.

Yet you were close. I could feel you. I stopped quick and surveyed my surroundings.

I see your shadow at o six hundred.

You were fast, but not fast enough.

Adrenaline surges through me,

The hunt is on!

I backtrack around the trees.

Following you now.

The hunted, now becomes the hunter! I move ghost-like, silent and deadly. My breaths pass from my lips in short, carefully channeled bursts.

Energy pulses through my limbs, allowing me a nimbleness unknown to most. Only the highest skilled, highly trained soldiers of war.

Bodies hewn with steel. The result of many years of combat, of covert operations. Moving in the shadows

of the hidden military world.

I see the opportunity to strike. I don't hesitate.

I pull my special edition, long range from my pack quickly.

Quietly. Deadly.

I instantly adjust the scope, steady my mind and body. My grip tightens on the trigger.

I exhale. Boom...

My finger pushes the lever, releasing the instrument of your demise.

Too late you sense the threat.

Your head turns to a sound.

The bullet kisses neatly into your temple.

Your down now, gravely injured.

I've bested you my worthy opponent! I walk to you, seeing how your short gasps speak of your fatal injury.

I- "Benjamin!?" "Benjamin Micheal Stafford, where are you!?"

"I'm here ma, just playing with Roger!"

"Well it's time to go!"

"You better not be dirty!"

I look down at myself, my dress shirt and formal pants a ruined muddy mess.

Damn! Why do I always get caught up in stuff like this!Damn! Why do I always get caught up in stuff like this!

I looked for my foe, he was yards away. The stain from our modified water guns, made to shoot balls of slime adorned his left temple.

He laughed gleefully, realizing he was able to escape total annihilation.

"Benjamin, do you hear me?"

"You need to get in here NOW!"

I knew that tone. It brooked no argument.

I turned to him again, watched his retreating back. Until next time my friend!..

The man was back. His small box of eclectic belongings surrounding him.

I was instantly enraged. His foul oder hit me as soon as I reached the yard. His ears were covered with a ratty scarf, protecting them from the bitter cold of the December freeze

His head bobbed softly as if he were listening to music. As I got closer, I noticed the tears he silently shed.

He had a phone that was in the protective fold of his blanket wrapped lap

He didn't hear me initially.

So lost in what he was listening to.

I grabbed at the scarf, tugging the worn cloth from his head.

He jerked, anger flushing his bloodshot eyes as he glared up at me. His face instantly softened when he recognized me.

I felt a quick stab of guilt. He seemed to be connected to me.

I cursed my soft natured heart.

I had fed him a hot meal a few times, now he seemed to think I would allow him to remain in my vicinity.

I was a single woman who lived alone. I didn't know this old man. Nor did I want to.

I had enough problems of my own.

I was actually on my way to dialysis. The treatments did little but make me feel even more sluggish and sick.

I didn't have the patience to deal with him now.

"I told you, you can't stay here!"

" Why do you insist on coming back?"

He glanced sheepishly at the phone, the tears in his eyes continued to fall.

I hardened my heart against it.

I could not let every homeless person's life become my problem.

He reached his cold frail looking hand up to me, the phone exposed and still playing a video of some sort.

I pushed it back towards him, not bothering to see what he was trying desperately to show me.

Tears of frustration gathered in my eyes. I don't have time for this!

Suddenly I heard the sound of sirens. I had already called the police.

Unable to make him see that he couldn't stay here, I felt forced to have the authorities intervene.

He looked at me pleadingly as they came to take him away. He rushed to me and stuffed his phone into my cold-numbed hands.

He didn't resist as they put him in the car, his belongings forgotten by the corner of my home.

I rushed to my appointment. Stuffing the phone inside of my coat. If he came to get it, I could at least keep it for him.

I couldn't fathom what had led him to be homeless. I couldn't care about his life's pain and heartache because I needed to focus on me. My health.

I had no family left, my parents had passed long ago, leaving me alone in the world without an anchor of any kind.

I had no siblings. No aunt's or uncles. No one to care about what I was going through. I didn't have space to care for anyone else as I'd been on my own for years.

I'd worked my way up for years with no one. Grateful that I could finally live a prosperous life. Even if it was only momentarily. My illness had no cure except for a transplant, which without living relatives was almost impossible to remedy.

Sure, I had money now, though not nearly enough to place myself at the top of the donor's list.

My problem needed to be my only concern for the moment.

Even still, my heart smarted at thoughts of his sad face as the officers had led him away.

At the clinic, I settled down for the tedious dialysis process. I realized I'd left my phone in the car.

After glancing through the same magazines that adorned the table nearby, I remembered his phone in my pocket.

Ashamed at how I'd reacted I resisted the urge to look at it. At first. Eventually, I gave in to my curiosity.

He'd wanted to show me something on it anyway. So it wasn't an invasion of privacy.

As soon as I opened the phone it popped back up to what he'd been looking at.

It was a grainy video of a child's birthday. The little girl stood in front of an aged table. Her smile beaming at the person behind the screen.

Her sweater, though worn was clearly cared for. Her small gifts lay on the table near her equally small though lovingly made cake.

My heart contracted painfully as I took in the scene. The machines that I was hooked to blared alarmingly.

Attendants rushed to my aid

But I was now lost in memories.

The little girl...was me.

I remembered that day very well.

It was the last time I'd seen my biological family. Before I'd been adopted by my mom and dad.

They had been older and had no family of their own so I grew up with just them.

The memory of my actual family had just slipped from my mind as I grew.

Later that day, I called the station. Hoping they still had the guy in custody. Unfortunately they had released him. I felt a pain unknown to me prior to seeing that video.

I thought I was content with my new life. That all I'd needed had been my adopted parents.

But now, my heart yearned to reconnect with the family that had sacrificed so much just to make ends meet.

I remembered I had a brother. Much older than me, but very much an important part of my past.

The other videos and pictures on the phone led to more unlocked memories.

Memories of a life I'd completely blocked out. At the time, I thought the worst thing that could happen to a family was to be poor.

My family had been so. Very poor in terms of wealth. But immensely wealthy in love. They'd tearfully given me away so that I could have a better life.

And I had completely forgotten about them. I tried for days to find him. Hoping and praying that he was okay. That he would come back.

My health had taken a turn for the worst. I was in the hospital. No one would come to see me. I'd never kept in touch with friends and coworkers.

My days were long and drawn out.

Eventually, five days before Christmas I was finally able to go home.

He sat on the cold steps in front of my home. Blowing on his hands to warm them against the frigid weather.

With a lump in my throat and tears streaming from my eyes, I raced to him as fast as my ill body could muster.

He stood, his smile knowing and welcoming. We hugged tightly.

All the pain and loneliness vanishing as he held me in a soothing embrace.

We both spoke, unable to talk fast enough to get clarity of the situation. I had a family!

He wasn't even actually homeless. He had found out where I was and left everything and everyone behind to come get me.

He'd run into some bad luck and ended up without shelter. He could have just returned home, but he'd been determined to find and reconnect with me.

That Christmas I rejoined my family. And for the first time, in quite a while; I felt what having a family was like.

I thank God every day for unexpected blessings.

A

I awoke instantly. My senses suddenly alert. Then I heard it and understood.

It was raining again. I sat up and listened to the soothing pitter patter that softly tapped at my window.

Usually this gave me a sense of calm. Now, it filled me with a feeling of dread. I knew the thing would be coming out again Absorbing the water until it's supernaturally distended body was so engorged it could only slither back under the house to wait for more rain.

The first time I saw it, it seemed like a cute little garden snake.

All black, small, with a smooth scaleless body. It's eyes were an obsidian color that seemed to carry the solar system within it's depths.

I had tried to pick it up, in my youthful stupidity. It opened it's mouth and sprayed something that was warm to the touch, though didn't burn. It stunned me.

I weakly sank to the ground as it slithered closer. I was unable to move as it reached my splayed fingertips.

The mouth quivered from some unseen pressure. It's inky depths seemed to undulate. Slowly something worked it's way out.

I was alone, fear like I've never felt rushing through me. I tried to call out to my family, but my voice was absent. Stolen by this nightmarish

creature that was as foreign as the sensations streaking through my system.

The thing inside resembled the snake. Only smaller. It suddenly latched out it's mouth and hooked jagged teeth unto my finger.

I screamed internally. I was still in the paralyzed thrall it put me in.

I felt something pulling out of me as the thing fed.

I began to feel extreme exhaustion.

My eyes began to close. I was dying in the backyard and no one would know why.

My mom came out just as my body fell over, unto the soft grass.

She rushed me to the hospital.

After numerous test, they said I was only very dehydrated.

The thing had taken the water from my body! I tried to tell my family, but they said it was only my childish imagination.

Everytime it rains the thing slithers out and absorbs as much water as it's widening body would hold.

Recently I saw it. It's body had gotten so big most of it remained under the house. It swallowed copious amounts of water. I knew eventually it would be so enormous it would no longer fit under the house.

As I sat listening to the rain I wondered how many of them there were out there. And what would happen once it had had it's fill...

This story is one that is included in an anthology I'm currently working on. I wanted to get some imput on it please let me know what you guys think about it. And if it should be included. It is for a novel of psychological horror. The story itself isn't terribly psychological, though it has some of the horror elements as well as a quirky bit of a twist. I hope you like it!...

I raced home with my tail between my legs .

My embarrassment knowing no bounds.

My first thought was mom.

How would she feel if she knew?

Would she still love me?

I shook off those thoughts, visibly tossing my

Self recriminations from my mind.

As I rounded the block I saw some of the same guys that I'd just fought with.

They were flexing on the corner.

All loud and boisterous.

Yeah just wait, I got something for all of Yall!

I quickly ducked into the alley, in back of my house. Trying to catch my breath before I got

home. I don't need mom to be worried about what I'm up to…

home. I don't need mom to be worriedabout what I'm up to…

Which was my grind of course!

Gotta get that money you know!

But it's brutal out here!

You gotta be on your toes!

Some dude could come up and take you out

just for existing!

Crazy right? I should say where I live it's kinda

dog eat dog, you know what I mean?

You could end up missing real quick and people were quick to snatch my people up you know?

I was currently at odds with this mean old dude on my block. The crazy sob would see me and howl for his cronies!

Next thing I knew, I would be running for my life!

They were straight up feral!

But I do alright though; I hold my own.

Usually…. There was too many of them this time. But it's not over!

I casually stroll in, seating myself next to my mom. She was in her nurse's uniform.

Already, dressed to go to work.

To leave me here again…

It was all good, I'm already a teen.

I just don't really like it when she's not here.

I tend to get in trouble.,..

I am a good kid though; it's just hard when you have so many obstacles to face everyday.

Some people just don't know what we go through on a daily basis…

I put a smile on my face as she ruffled my hair.

I turned, making sure she gave the other side some love as well.

My mom had magic hands y'all!

When I was mad or sad, my mom would hold me and kiss me. Whispering softly, soothingly in my ears that everything was going to be okay.

I can't even express how much I love her!

I don't care if dudes think I'm weak for it.

I'm going to want kisses and hugs from my mom when I'm 80!

She speaks to me in a weary voice.

She's tired… I'm pissed!

If my dad was a man he would be helping us!

Just because their marriage didn't work that's no reason to just dip!

Just because their marriage didn't workhat's no reason to just dip!

When I become a dad I won't leave my kids! Not by choice!

That shit means something to me!

I smile inside; knowing mom would be surprised to hear me curse. I wasn't raised like that.

But I'm "adjusting" to my surroundings.

We didn't always live here; we use to stay in a very posh high-rise in the middle of the city with my dad.

Very rich neighbors. All kinds of amenities!

Man I miss that place!...

But there were downsides.

I was younger then so I couldn't leave out, on my own. Always had to have a chaperone.

Some of the tenants didn't like me so they were

always looking out; waiting to catch me doing something crazy.

But here; I just feel alone…

I mean, I know she's gotta work.

I get that. But I just hate when she leaves.

I have to get out of here when she does, I don't like being here by myself.

She got up; dark crescents of sleeplessness

hollowed the area under her eyes.

She smiled sweetly as she reached for her purse and keys.

"Don't go out and get into trouble."

Little did she know!...

"I'm serious baby. Don't make me so worried; out "here" looking for you."

"It's too dangerous"...

I had to say okay, but you already know!...

She had made me something to eat before she left, so I smashed real quick.

My momma was a great cook!

She was into healthy eating, so she didn't eat much meat.

Me on the other hand… I was a carnivore!

I relied on a diet heavy in succulent flesh.

And she fixed it perfectly!

Nothing fake or out of a can!

All fresh meat!

With some fruits and vegetables thrown in as well. Gotta be balanced!

And she made sure to look up recipes and nutritional facts, it was important to her.

So I took it seriously.

In the house!

Once I left out this door all bets were off!

I ate whatever I wanted!

And I mean whatever! I didn't mess with chocolate though and some vegetables due to allergies

And while I appreciated her efforts, I did need the "good stuff" from time to time.

I got sleepy all of a sudden so I started to head to my room; ready to get some rest…

The phone rang before I left the living room.

I waited for the message that would come.

I "was not" about to answer. I already knew who it was….I waited for the beep as the message came through;

"Hey, it's John. I just wanted to see how you were doing"…

"I know I don't have the right to say it but …

I miss you guys"... I still love you"...

He actually had the nerve to sound sad!

Yeah, you love us so much you fucked

somebody else, then got a whole divorce when ma told you she wasn't feeling that.

And you left us there, at the high-rise; knowing ma didn't have enough to pay for everything by herself!

But you "miss" us, yeah. Okay!..

I quickly went to the answering machine and deleted the message. Just like I do any other

time he calls.

If he cared, he would have come here!

She gave him her forwarding information.

Even though I told her not to.

He wasn't worth it..

After staying up so many nights with her after she had found out; then when he left us, I lost all respect for him.

She had cried and pleaded…

and I had cried and pleaded with her not to beg him for anything

The settlement money was so paltry she had to start working again!

My momma hadn't worked since I was born!

But I wasn't a baby anymore!

I knew I would have to use my wiles to help my mom! No questions!

She needed me, I could see that.

I couldn't even sleep anymore. I was so mad!

I decided to exercise to let off some steam.

After that I just left. My ma would be gone for a while, so I could sneak out and be back before she did.

Leaving out the back, I ducked around to the front. Inspecting the block, trying to gauge whether it was safe to go

All clear! I breathed a sigh of relief.

I've got other things on my mind.

I don't have time to deal with hood dudes right now. I was on a mission!...

I knew where to go …

I'd been peepin this lick for a minute.

The dudes driving the big, shiny truck were so careless! They would actually play with the money from time to time

Tossing it around like it was theirs!

Having a good 'ol time!

I already told myself I needed a diversion.

Something to distract them fools long enough to get what I needed and be out!

I spotted it about halfway to the location.

It was a big, fat ass rat!

Grey fur slicked down in odd places, crazy long whiskers! Sharp front teeth sticking out of it's mouth.

I didn't really want to touch it, but this was necessary. I waited until it's back was turned.

Occupied by something…

I pounced, grabbing it firmly by the back of it's head and neck.

It tried feebly to get away but my grip tightened.

Causing it to squeak in fear.

Don't worry dude, don't move… I won't hurt you.

I spotted the truck the moment I got to the spot.

The drivers were already loading the money into the bulky machine.

Two were doing this with one in the back, standing guard

I quickly ducked around him, hopping up into the back.

I was stealthy as I looked for what I needed.

Spotting the tan bag that held my mom's and my future, I dumped the rat.

Grabbing the bag I crouched in the dark, waiting for the rat to get curious.

He went right up to the guy. Smelling his pants as he stood just outside the truck.

I gave him a warning swipe so he would get scared and climb dudes' leg.

I laughed as the guy lost it, running into the other guys, yelling and screaming!

It was just enough chaos to allow me to slip out unnoticed.

Being small had its perks.

I'm out! Running like something was chasing after me!

My feet barely touched the ground as I flew through the neighborhood.

Head down, ducking low so I wouldn't be noticed. I held onto the bag for dear life.

This was our lifeline!

And I would be damned before I let someone else take it!

I hopped a set of short bushes as I came around the corner. My adrenaline pumping full blast.

I jumped and raced through the tricky parts of the block. Knowing all the booby traps and

set up spots, I would NOT get caught slippin.

Not this time!....

Dipping quickly into the alley I sprinted towards my house.

My feet skidding and sliding as I rushed to safety.

As soon as I reached my door I dashed upstairs to my mom's room.

Dropping the bag on the bed and running back down.

I don't know why I ran; just amped up I guess.

As I reached the landing I heard a noise.

Unusual… I know I'm supposed to be alone.

Yet, clearly I hear something.

I sneak around the corner, adrenaline blasting

but now for another reason.

I peer quietly around into the kitchen.

By the back door.

I can't believe what I'm seeing!

It's my dad!

He somehow got in and was looking around with sadness. How long had he been here?!

What the hell did he want?

I wasn't feeling bothered to try and talk to him. I tried to slip out around him but he saw me.

Calling out to me.

I paused for like a second.

Deciding I wasn't ready to forgive him yet.

I kept going, heading out the door.

I hid back, watching him.

Seeing what he would do…

He looked around, confusion and frustration

contorting his features.

He clutched a key tightly in his hand, clucking

dejectedly before getting quickly into his sports car and speeding off.

Good riddance! We don't need you!..

Even as I said this, tears of anger and sadness clouded my vision. I wiped my face with my arm.

Turning, I try to head to the back.

I bumped someone that had come up behind me, making me stumble. Trying to retain my balance, I nimbly pivoted to the left instantly on alert for trouble.

It was him. The old dude.

He looked at me with wild eyes, standing as tall as he could. Arms outstretched, ready

for war.

I wasn't trying to mix with him right now.

I had important things to do.

I tried once again to step past him.

I heard his cronies hooting behind me.

He stepped towards me, aggression in his every move. I stepped back , trying to keep an eye on everyone around me.

He spoke so harshly, so intimidatingly!

I was used to being afraid of him.

He was older, bigger, meaner.

But I was younger, quicker, more agile!

I could take him!

I rose up as well, letting all the bad words I wasn't allowed to speak burst forth.

I gave as good as i got. Letting him

have it! Yelling and screaming, trying to intimidate him right back.

We were gathering a small crowd, all standing around with open interest.

Waiting to see who would throw the first blow

To my surprise he charged!

Coming at me full strength! I managed to evade the worst of it but he did glance a blow off the side of my head!

I felt the rush of wind first, then a sting of pain as the blow connected.

I shook off the sensation. Realizing he was not playing and we would have to Duke it out.

Or worse!...

He charged me again, hooking his arms into my sides and yanking me off my feet.

I slammed to the ground!

Stunned by the brutal force!

He jumped at me again, twisting his hands up on my scalp and yanking with all his might.

I felt a trickle roll down my face, into my eyes.

I was bleeding!

He was back standing now, talking aggressive and boastful. Bolstered by the crowd, who upon seeing the blood erupted into a frenzy

They were actually enjoying this!

Didn't they care that I was just a kid!

Did they have no sympathy at all!?

On my back; I drew my legs up in a defensive posture. Waiting for him to try and strike at me

again. He circled me for a minute, sizing me up as if to show me I didn't have a chance!

I felt an anger surge through me as I formed

my strategy in my head. As soon as he got close enough, I tripped him. Dodging quickly to escape his impact with the ground.

But he was tough, he swiveled, catching his balance quite nimbly for an old guy.

He bellowed with rage as he shot his body

at me like a torpedo!

His eyes were huge and demented!

This dude wanted my life!

I could see murder in his eyes!

It was time to end this. For good…

He repeatedly struck at me with lightening speed! His blows sometimes glancing off me, sometimes hitting me.

The blows rained down viciously!

I could only protect my head as I waited for him to tire a bit.

When he rose again to full height I could see

something small and sharp glisten in the sunlight. He was going to stick me!

I turned quickly to my left. My eyes searching for someone, something to help me!

Suddenly I thought of my mom, coming home

searching for me. Only to find my

lifeless body!

I saw her bend to my torn and bleeding form.

Taking me in her arms as she screamed in rage and pain!....

I couldn't allow that to happen!

He had lived his life and wanted to take mine!

Not today! Not ever!

Spying a jagged piece of glass just on the side of me I swiped at his legs again.

This time, he pitched forward.

Falling onto my legs.

I grabbed him roughly. Thrusting him head first unto the street, and the wicked piece of glass.

He fell heavily, the glass crunching violently

into the side of his skull.

He jerked spastically, his arms flailing wildly.

The force alone broke his neck.

The glass piercing his head finished him off.

I jumped up, grabbing onto his head;

pushing as hard as I could to make sure he stayed down…

I stayed there, long after his twitches had stilled.

Long enough to see the blood start to run from his oozing gash.

Shock kicked in. I just killed him!

He is dead! I quickly got up, looking around.

Some of his close friends stood around in shock as well, grabbing at his body and screaming for help.

He was clearly past that.

Some of the younger "hoods" looked at me

with a bit of awe. A lot of fear.

The crowd parted for me.

I stumbled my way to my house. Hoping my mom hadn't made it home yet.

The fight felt like it took forever .

But was probably only a few minutes.

Once home, I checked my wounds.

They were no longer bleeding.

Didn't even hurt anymore.

I tried to check myself, to make sure I didn't

look like I'd been into anything.

I was okay. I'd been worse.

I wondered if I would be held accountable for what had happened.

If someone would tell.

It would be surprising if they did.

My kind died everyday and NO ONE

seemed to be held accountable.

I tried to play it cool as I heard her come in.

She took her purse, put it on the table.

Grabbing the mail she sat down.

I walked up to her, getting on her lap and just holding her. She placed the mail to the side.

Cradling my head and stroking me softly.

I could no longer be the kid I was. Now, I

was an adult. But I didn't know how to let this go! My mom "was" my lifeline.

Not the money…

The money! I shot up persuading her to come with me. She laughed, thinking I was being silly. But she came regardless.

Taking the stairs slowly on tired legs.

When we got to her room, I plopped myself on the bed. Waiting for her to open the bag.

"What is this?". She held the bag in her hands,

turning it round and round.

I implored her to open it. She did so at her

leisure. I became impatient.

Pressing her onward.

Finally she had the stacks of cash in her hand

She gasped in surprise. Her hands dropping the money, flying up to cover her mouth.

I laughed in delight. Splashing through the now unwrapped bills. My legs in the air.

She swatted me playfully. Laughing at my antics. Before a thoughtful expression came to her face. She laughed again, catching my face in her hands.

"Do you know what this means!?"

She squealed with delight, laying by my side.

"Did your dad do this?"

"I gave him the key so he could see you."

She turned her head towards me.

"He said you ran"...

I remained silent.

"You should forgive him, he is your dad."

I yawned loudly. It had been a long day.

I lay my head on her stomach, just enjoying

the moment with her.

We were interrupted by knocking.

Someone was at the door.

I let her go down first. Just in case it was

someone who was there for me.

It was her friend Vanessa, she was in

the middle of a very animated story when I came down.

"Girl, yes they killed him." My baby!"

"I heard all this screaming, and fighting!

"I look out and see all these damn cats

in the streets, surrounding two others "

"My baby and another, smaller cat were

fighting."

"Couldn't see what it looked like because of the other cats. Buck was all reared up girl!"

"He was actually squading up to this cat!"

Like a human!"

"But honestly , he was crazy these last few years. I just didn't have the heart to put him

down. This was a long time coming"...

I saw the tears in her eyes , they slowly slid down her cheeks. I felt a bit sad for her.

NOT for him. He deserved it…

I walked over to her, placing my hand on her leg. She picked me up, cradling my soft fur

with her face. I kissed her tears away with my

muzzle. She was the sweetest!

Almost as nice as my mom..

I wanted her to be okay. She sighed and gently put me on the floor

"Your baby is so sweet! He always makes me feel so loved!" She sat back.

Her head resting on the back of the couch.

"He is always so well behaved, you never

have to worry about him getting hurt"...

My mom looked at me in silent contemplation.

She smiled, and shook her head.

"No, I guess not."

I walked back to my room.

Plopping down on my bed and closing my eyes…

I sit in the shadows of eternal darkness. My penance. My punishment. I crave the daylight! No longer able to ignore the need festering in my soulless heart.

It ends today! This journey of endless sorrows. Oh how I longed for dawn! The bright sunlight of a clear day. To bask in the glory of the sun's rays as they bathe my being with warmth. With love.

I thought I was beyond that feeling. Felt that it's emotion was for the weak, those who had to have another to be whole. To be fulfilled.

Now at the end of my journey I realize too late the part I was missing. The part where I yearned for the touch of another, the feeling of completedness. The bliss of consumation that only comes from the other half of us. A binding union not mete in blood. But of an eternal bond. A boundless love that encompasses both. That leaves no room for doubt or fear.

I thought the cold and dark were all I needed. To feel the power of another's life as it flowed through my fingers. To have supreme control of all the things that make humans weak and fragile.

I told myself countless lies for centuries. Lies that temporarily fed the empty places in my frozen body.

Why did I have to meet her! Why did I find myself drawn to what I assumed were the frail beats of a weakened heart. Her blood was a symphony. Playing a music that stirring what I assumed was a passion to have inside me!

As she lay dying I glimpse it then, her overwhelming zeal to live in spite of her pain! Her fervent wish to see the dawn once more!

Now I sit here praying for dawn to cleanse me of this unforgivable sin. To purge myself from this world with finality. To combust with the certainty of my doom. It is only my just payment. Final and irreversible. For taking her from this world. I eagerly await the dawn...

I

I was asleep before my head hit the downy pillow. The scent of jasmine and musk filled my nose sweetly.

The soft ambient lighting from my very adult night light; shaped like the moon completed a trifecta of sleepy solitude.

So content I barely heard the knob turn, ever so gently. Allowing him to enter.

Am I dreaming? Is this real?

I peek from the corner of the throw.

He walks in slowly. Calmly.

His eyes searched the room before landing on my small form lying in the bed. Covered up, one eye slightly sneaking a glimpse of him.

He was stunning. Better than my simple prose could ever articulate. This tall mahogany Adonis. Smirking at my timid perusal.

I found my voice at last.

"Who..are you?"

"Really? You conjure up a guy and suddenly you've got amnesia?"

"What; do I not meet your expectations?"

His laugh is pure honey. My eyes go wide. The protective hold on the blanket slips. I sit up, my choice of jammies, a comfy tank reaching only to the front of my silky undies.

Definitely a dream.

I look at him. Awe at how utterly perfect he is evident on my features.

"You're pretty hot yourself gorgeous, maybe you should readjust that blanket... Unless you want me to see all that loveliness."

I momentarily considered this.

Fuck it, it's my fantasy after all.

His laugh wove through me like molten lava. Scalding the intimate places it touched.

He reached for me then, silently entreating my aquesience.

I wordlessly give him my hand. He effortlessly pulls me to him.

Once encapsulated within his embrace my body went from a heated flush to a blazing inferno.

How did I think up this amazingly sensual creature! He's too... Everything!

I sat on his lap, facing him. filled with appreciation at the utter size of this man. All of him!

My femininity became delicate and tender. I didn't hesitate to indulge in the carnal bliss..

Every night, since moving into my new home went like this. At first it was mystical, magical. What dreams are literally made of.

Until it became too much.

I was waking up very sore and swollen in uncomfortable places.

People at my job questioned if I was ill.

That's when I noticed the bruises. The hollows under my eyes. The tired and sickly look that had come over me. I decided I needed a break from Mr. Perfect.

He didn't like that too much. He became a shadow that seemed to haunt me, even in daylight.

His once sensual nature giving way to a malevolent presence.

I questioned why I didn't just give up the fantasy but honestly it had begun to feel like a relationship.

A toxic one, that I couldn't really break. How do you break from a fantasy?

Was I going crazy?

I decided I needed real company.

I called an old friend who was more than eager. His sweet nature a welcome change from the super charged erotic nights I'd been having.

I excused myself to use the restroom. Upon returning, he was hastily putting on his jacket.

"Are you leaving already?"

I tried to keep the disappointment from my voice.

"Yeah, sorry I just... I think your house is haunted....

Chapter One

"Tis no lady like I know."

The words were said aloud, though muffled;for fear of someone from the castle overhearing.

"I' of all people having ta search the woods for the "lady's fire!"

The hot rage she felt helped somewhat to soothe the bitter cold that blasted her frail, poorly clothed body.

She fumed as she walked; going ever deeper into the forest. Unaware that she walked ever-closer to an

unimaginable fate.

The sequence of events that lead her to be out at this time of night was so cruel; even the Gods themselves wouldn't have been so temperamental.

The lantern she carried cast eerie lights on the trees, making the area appear sinister.

It was then that she realized just how far away from the castle she'd traveled; as well as how dark it had gotten.

Gulping audibly she opened her apron's pouch so as to gather the slender uniformed branches the lady had requested.

"How am I ta find the same size o' branches, 'tis impossible at this time o' night!"....

She heard some rustling in the trees, wondered briefly if it was a cute wee deer.

The sound that followed assured her of two things:

It wasna a deer; she should run.

Chapter Two

The sound was far off, but distinct. It belonged to none other than the beast...

The beast of her village in Vanderleen.

She had heard horrible stories of the terrible

creature and it's murderous rampage.

Even as she told herself she should hurry, her body refused to move. She felt tethered to the forest floor as she listened for the abominable sound again.

The thumping of her heart drowned out every other sound.

Mouth opened- she breathed heavily and as silently as she could.

Starting to believe she had imagined it; she finally turned to peer through the trees around her.

Hearing nothing she returned to her task.

Vowing to hurry and get back...

Mid-stand she heard it again; a bit closer this time.

She clutched the small branch as if it were a sword.

Holding it out before her, scanning the immediate area for the beast's snarling visage.

She heard the rustling again, this time from the side of her; far too close for comfort.

Finally finding her feet she darted out, going further into the woods.

She ran until her lungs hurt, forcing her to stop.

She squeezed into a cluster of saplings

trying desperately to hide.

She could hear the heavy pads of it's feet slapping indolently against the ground.

As if it had all the time in the world to catch her and eat her...

Chapter Three

She cried silently. Used to being quiet in her misery. Used to feeling hopeless and defeated.

"Probably the reason she'd been "recruited" for the job. Ta be rid o' me once and all" she thought angrily.

This anger fueled something inside of her.

Some once-dormant feeling she never realized she possessed.

She also realized she wanted to live.

She was far from ready to shuffle off this mortal coil.

She made a decision to run again, choosing to use the lantern as a diversion.

She waited.. hoping to get a better sense of where the beast was.

It was a low whining howl, more like a query of sorts than a snarl. It seemed to be taunting her.

The snap of a branch told her exactly how close it was; too close! Still, she vowed that she would fight for her life before the beast just took it from her.

It sniffed and snorted; pawing the ground with it's head dipped low.

It was sniffing her out!

Fear bit deep into her belly, forcing bile up her throat and a droplet of urine from her clenched body.

She held her breath as the droplet made a trail down her legs. It's winding path caused a burning need to scratch.

The beast snarled lowly, menacingly.

As if angered at the new smell.

This was it, she would have to do it now, or nevermore..

Chapter Four

She darted out from her hiding spot, thrusting the light In front of her and in the direction of the beast.

She didn't bother to look back as she took off running in the direction of the castle's safety.

Her feet suddenly flew out from under her.

She was puzzled for but a second before she felt the crushing weight of the beast push her belly into the cold ground.

She was roughly twisted over so that she was lying on her back; the shock of the animals power forced a low moan of pain from between her clenched lips.

The sound was abruptly cut off as she felt a tentative paw press gingerly against her ribcage.

The pressure surprisingly light, despite the tremendous size of the animal.

She hitched her breath as she prepared for the killing blow to come...

But the beast just stood there, partly straddling her body.

She waited... Silently praying that the Gods would protect her and keep her safe.

She watched... As the trees swayed in the cold moonlight. The moon itself appeared to grow larger,

Casting once darkened areas awash with it's eerie light.

She wondered... As the beast slowly lowered it's head in her direction...

Her breath caught once again in her throat as it came into view.

Morbid curiosity struck her; causing her to not look away.

She noticed it's eyes first; the golden orbs appeared to glow as it came into the moon's light.

Slowly, she was made aware of the huge size of it's head; shagged-out fur framing an angular chiseled snout.

It was sniffing her, huffing it's hot, fetid breath over her; making her shiver despite the heat it's body and breath radiated.

She once again looked into it's eyes, sensing a keen intelligence. She was surprised to find it's eyes had turned to a clear light grey color. The expressive orbs seeming to be asking something of her.

She was startled as it's head whipped up, listening to the night. Several seconds ticked by before it; satisfied with what it heard, once again dipped it's head in her direction.

She closed her eyes, confusion and trepidation wreaking havock on her flayed nerves.

She felt it's snout brush softly against her cheek, almost a caress. Her eyes shot open as she felt it's body shift.

It's snout once again coming in contact with her.

This time it seemed to sniff at her lower region causing alarm. She knew her menses were coming soon, and wondered briefly if it could tell.

Realizing that wild animals were sometimes attracted to the smell.

Flashes of the beast sinking it's gruesome teeth into her caused a frightened moan to mew from her lips

The low growl that followed made her clamp her lips tightly together.

Wearing not much but a long chemise under a hastily made gown, she'd never felt more naked.

It's massive paw came into contact with her thighs as it swatted at the clothing. It's snout helping to pull the fabric further up her body.

Revealing her pale slim shape.

It looked into her eyes as it's head dipped lower to sniff yet again. Her vision about to be a reality;

she inwardly quaked. Too afraid to actually move a muscle.

She thought about the drop of urine she'd frightenedly let trickle out, wondering if that was what it smelled. Hoping it made her less appetizing.

Lost in her terror she was thunderstruck to feel the softest caress at her core.

The beast's hot breath was doing strange things to her mind and body.

She risked a look down to see it almost studying her.

It's snout making contact with her neither region again and again.

This brought an undulation of sensations from her core. She was shocked at the sexual feeling it evoked from her.

Her body unconsciously relaxed. The pleasantness of the sensation catching her off guard.

Her body sank further into the ground trying to squirm under the sensual- like onslaught.

The beast's paw whipped up; stopping her movements with it's extended claws aimed at her milky thighs.

It's head came up searching her eyes as it made soft huffs or grunts before once again returning to her heat.

She was wholely out of her element as to what was happening. She reluctantly acknowleged that it wasn't painful, yet it made her terribly uncomfortable.

She had never felt these sensations before and was at a loss for what it meant.

It's giant body pressed down into the space between her thighs, opening her up to it's perusal of her body.

It's head was once again in shadows making her anxious about it's intentions.

Suddenly she felt a hot, heavy and wet object make contact with her neither region.

Eliciting a sharp gasp from her lips.

The feeling was intense yet pleasant. Making her head feel befuddled and heavy.

Her body instinctively flexed upward as it's tongue once again washed over her.

Shivers of anticipation coursed through her making her gnash her teeth to keep the moan she felt rising from bursting forth. For fear that...

He would stop...?

Before she could ponder the situation more she felt his tongue slide heavily along the folds of her womanhood making her buck at the feeling.

It didn't stop there. The constant undulations of his tongue caused her to go catatonic momentarily.

Allowing him further access to her body.

She tried to understand what was happening but the sensations were becoming so intense it felt as if something was churning inside of her...

Chapter Five

Awash in the calming yet simultaneously maddening feelings she fought the natural urge her body had to grab it's head and relish further the erotic feelings it evoked.

She was losing her mind...

This was too much... too... Good.

She realized she was panting; breath coming in short little bursts as something continued to build inside of her.

She closed her mouth, least the animal would hear.

Attempting to mask the arousal that was unbeknownst to her currently taking over her body.

She soon became lost in the sensation

Moans of pure pleasure forced themselves from her tightly clamped lips. Tingles of pleasure made her silently toss her head from side to side.

She felt as if she was on a train of pure pulsing sensation, rushing towards something she'd never experienced before.

As if sensing the changes in her, it seemed to move with more purpose; filling her with enormous,frantic energy.

Causing her to cry out freely as it's movements erupted a hidden inferno inside.

She was beyond caring at this point as she was quickly approaching a precipice; about to be thrust over a cliff of emotions she couldn't even name.

Her body Shook and shuddered as she was being driven to a fever pitch of unknown proportions.

Her body involuntarily bucking and spasming.

If he didn't stop now... she would die!...

But it didn't stop.

On the contrary it's movements increased, adding the perfect amount of pressure that caused her to buck up to meet the thrusts of it's tongue.

Abruptly she was thrown into oblivion; her body exploding into a billion orgasmic shards.

Reduced to mere atoms, blown apart and scattered into the wind.

She absently felt him move as she slowly returned to earth.

He was shifting again.

This time she didn't see it but felt as the earth- shatteringly intense feelings gave way to a scorchingly hot,searing pain as it's teeth bit down into the fleshy part of her inner thigh.

The sensation so different from the previous one

that she didn't even have time to scream.

The beast quickly withdrew it's teeth and licked the spot.

Afraid once again she tried to crawl away from it's huge body. Turning; hips thrust in the air, she dragged herself forward on her arms and knees.

Once again the beast was upon her, straddling her from behind.

She felt herself falling forward from the force of his weight. Before the beast could make the killing blow she fainted.

Fading away from the world of consciousness and life...

Title is: The beast of Vanderleen

Genre: historical fiction/revenge/romance

Age range: 18+

Word count:18,888

Author name: Cathleen Mallory

Why it's a fit/synopsis: My novel is great for people of an adult age range, mature subject matter. Though told from a more conservative stance. The book tries to capture the feelings of desperation that consumes us across all times and pasts. It evokes memories of frustrating circumstances and deals with loss. It conveys the resilience of the determined spirit as well as the triumph of overcoming adversity/adversaries. Many people should be able to relate to the trauma as well as the determined souls, drawn together to create a new life for themselves. It deals with revenge implemented from a supernatural standpoint.

Target audience: Mainly women, though anyone who enjoys revenge/romance with some historical accuracy as well as creative license should resonate with it.

My name is Candace McNair.

I have loved the spoken word since I was a child. Writing books as early as 11 years old. My goal is to become an accredited author.

And also provide exceptionally for my family. This story was published on Amazon. With a decent reception, though without the ability to properly advertise and promote; has lowered on the rating scale. As well as having no reviews written about it. I hope to reach a larger audience.

Hobbies: writing, reading, drawing/painting, cooking, baking, dancing, beauty astetics, community activities, church activities, and many more. (All things creative!)

My hometown: Detroit Michigan

My current location: Milwaukee Wisconsin

My age: 43

What is devine? Of or like God. What is God? The creator of all things. To be a devine male/female is to be a creator. Indebted with all the power and creativity of the universe itself.

It is an aura of mystery. A tangible deity. A masterful mind. Beauty mystified. An artisan unparalleled.

It is the personification of power, of love and privilege. An enigma of supernatural force. An all encompassing sensation set to human form. It is you and I.