In the Shadow of Death

Final Sunset

Before pulling into their long driveway, they drove by the old one-story house.

Kara noticed all the curtains were drawn back.

Odd.

For as long as they've lived there, the curtains were always closed.

After parking in front of their home, Kara took Josh inside while Dad got the groceries.

Kara put Josh in the play pen and met Dad in the kitchen to help with unloading the bags.

She glanced at the small window over the sink.

The sun was low in the sky. It would be dark soon.

"Dad?"

"Yes, sport?"

"What do you really know about this house?"

"Other than it's pretty old and run down?"

"Yeah."

He studied Kara's face for a moment.

"I know about the Bannards if that is what you're referring to."

Kara leaned against the table.

"Do you believe in ghosts?"

Dad let out a heavy sigh. "Kara, there are no ghosts in this house."

Her chin rose defiantly, "There's something in this house,"

"Kara, please!"

"Dad, you got to believe me when I tell you that we need to get away from here, this --- this house!"

"That's enough! I don't want to hear anymore from you about these ghosts!"

"But Dad!"

"End of story!"

It was no use. He refused to believe her.

She walked over to the sink and stared out of the window.

The setting sun was brilliant with its vibrant red and purple rays across the darkening sky.

Kara brushed aside a loose strand of hair as a single tear trickled down her face.

"I think Josh's hungry." Dad said.

This was her cue that it was time to fix supper.

Later that evening, Kara went through her usual bedtime routine with Josh.

When she laid him down in his crib, she sensed how eerily quiet the house has become.

There were no voices or strange noises.

Nothing.

It unnerved her.

Whispering good night to Josh, Kara studied his angelic face. His eyelids heavy with sleep.

She can't imagine life without him.

After turning out the light, she went to check on Dad.

His bedroom door was closed with the light still on.

He must be reading or going through the family album as he frequently did.

She moved on to her room and partially closed her door.

She quickly undressed, pulled on a long t-shirt and a pair of flannels, and slipped into bed.

She lied on her back and listened to the silence for several minutes.

After tossing and turning she finally fell to a dreamless sleep.