A sharp scream tore from Tabitha's lips, an ominous terror filled her eyes as she curled up. Rocking her body to oblivion with a lullaby only she could hear. She sought for something unknown, wanting comfort and escape. The rain drops a persistent presence on the roof, making her more restless. A sweet small voice came, searching to soothe her.
"Mama," Samantha whispered, embracing her with her small fragile frame. Trying her best to shield her from the darkness that haunted her. Her small hands wiped the teary drops on Tabitha's face. It left behind a feeling of warmth and relief, filling her with strength. Her eyes slowly shut into a soft slumber, her body going limp and quiet.
* *. *. *. *
It was silent, the clock in the living room being the only sound. Outside the cicadas produced a high annoying continuous sound. In the kitchenette there was a never- ending droplet from the faucet. A sudden wind that always made the stairs creak. Each door made a squeaky sound as the opened and closed. Every small step made Samantha's body shudder, every rustle made her body curl in fear. Each swallow was forced and hard. The only prayer she had was that nightfall would pass just like every other night. A niggling feeling kept bugging in the back of her mind. Small breaths escaped from her lips while her palms had gathered moisture. Her face was tear-stained, her heart drumming faster than usual. The predator was outside her presence growing bigger.
Curiosity got the better of her and she peeped through the keyhole. She spotted a frail looking woman, Tabitha was illuminated by the moonlight. Clad in a dilapidated nightgown. Samantha tried to scrutinize closely through the small hole; her long auburn hair glistened in the moonlight giving it an array of fading embers. Her thin fragile body steel with determination and hope. She wasn't much taller, her pallid young face filled with wary lines. Those black eyes still keen and bright. Tabitha's eyes sent a message of aloofness, her quizzical look sent fear down Samantha's spine. Something was queer about her, in that instant she saw a twinkling light. Samantha gasped and tears streamed down her face. She implored the heavens for her safety. A rekindle of hope suddenly sparked in her heart when the predator had suddenly disappeared from view. Suddenly there was a large bang on the closet door. Vigorously and continuous, her breathes came out in huge gasps as sweat formed droplets on her forehead. She gripped the door knob with all her strength. Her hands became sweaty and slippery and started giving away.
" Mama found you!! Mama found you Sammy!! Come out!! Come out!! Dear!! SAMMMY!!" Tabitha shouted with utmost joy and pleasure. Samantha's heart pounded in her ears and there was a crack, " NO! NO!" She whispered, "NO! NO! THE DOOR!" She had to flee, as fast as she can, the instant Tabitha yanked it open, she came out as fast as her small legs could go. Her legs padded on the floor while she tried to make an escape. Heavier footsteps still trailing behind her, still chasing. She ran down the hallway, towards the stairs; the laughter menacingly coming from behind her. Tears stained her cheeks as she fled from the terror that wanted to destroy her. Her legs almost gave out but she still went on, she couldn't give up now. When she turned back, she saw Tabitha had stopped moving. Samantha's ankle gave away and she rolled down the stairs. Looking up the stairs, Tabitha was silent and still, the moon illuminating her, her auburn hair burning bright, her black eyes glistening with tears, her fragile delicate body poised in an angelic manner. She stared at her little child before frothing and foaming from the mouth, then suddenly she stuck the blade to her heart. Blood began oozing and it stained her white satin nightgown. She collapsed and rolled down the stairs coming to a halt where Samantha was. All her mind could do was gaze, horrified, transfixed and stuck to the lifeless body of her mother. Slowly teary droplets came from her eyelids, Tabitha was dead, her mother was dead, a sharp, painful scream tore through the calm night as realization hit home.