Murder at Midnight

Chapter 1
The Murder on Downsters hill

A thin tongue of lighting licked across the sky leaving behind a feint orange glow. Thunder rumbled somewhere overhead, going on simultaneously, leaving no end to the gathering darkness. Slowly, getting blacker and blacker by the minute the sky overhead looked as menacing as a corpse. The deathly pale moon hung limply in the sky, staying luminous but not giving much light to the evil sins below it. Somewhere in the distance, a cry could be heard, like a hungry baby bawling for its mother. But the sallow skinned man couldn’t care less he had other things on his mind.

The dark rings around his eyes suggested he was lacking sleep. His greasy unkempt hair and his pale face glanced uneasily around.

With his putrid breath and cat like eyes he looked as if he was expecting something to happen, something to burst out of the looming darkness.

Somewhere behind him he could just make out the chiming of the town centre clock striking midnight.

Suddenly, he broke into a run. The cold night air whipped at his face – slowly chilling him to the bone.  Despite his shivering body he thundered on through the clawing hours of darkness.

Then a bloodcurdling sight met his eyes – a gory body covered in rats and mice lay just a few feet away. The remainders of his best friend. He felt so angry, red; piping hot lava fizzed and bubbled up inside him. Who had done this terrible deed?

His emotions were all jumbled up inside him. He crept closer to the visible bones of the cadaver, shooing the vermin away as he came.

Sobbing, he knelt down, blinded by the flowing tears. Gradually, rain fell eventually becoming a deluge, soaking him to the skin. But he cared not in the slightest. How long he stayed there he didn’t know, only when he heard the town centre clock chiming 4:00am he knew he must go without hesitation. He couldn’t move, he was so disturbed by this strange event. Fumbling fingers numb with cold, he brushed away the tears with a sodden tissue and tried to stand but to nobody’s surprise… he collapsed weak and defenceless. Nothing could stop the unforgiving hatred that seemed to seize him and throw him down into the icy depths of hell’s cruelty.  Beside himself with fear he crawled to a nearby bush and lay there for a while with an empty mind.

“How stupid this was running away.” He muttered darkly to himself.

“Oh damn it” He cursed as he pulled a thorn out of his bleeding arm. Trying perhaps to stay awake made him fall asleep even quicker.. Although what he didn’t know as he was sleeping soundly, that on the top of Downsters hill there was a glowing pair of eyes surveying the land. With leaping bounds it darted down pausing only to stop for a breath and to give a quick glance around. Even at the bottom it still carried on into the darkness and out of sight its rust coloured tail streaking along behind, it’s white tip a blur to the minds eye. After, only a howl could be heard, nothing moved or was heard. All was still. The stars shone less brightly as the moon dipped in the sky and crept away into it’s lair behind the stormy clouds.

Chapter 2

Stabbed

It was sunrise when James woke up. Tentatively, he crawled out of the bush and lay down on his back. The pink sky loomed over him. His once motionless figure stretched as a cool breeze fluttered past him. Aching all over, he looked over to his left to see the startling eyes of a vixen dancing in the half-light. Sniffing the air without another look to him, she gave a yelp, and out of a den followed her mischievous cubs. Whilst waiting for food they insisted upon trying to tear each other’s ears off. No matter what the mother did they wouldn’t stop. It was only when she gave a sharp bark did they acknowledge her. Stealthily, glided along the grass covered field, her paws barely touching the waving blades. Her beautiful figure stalked a helpless rabbit nibbling the luscious grass. Quick as a bullet train she pounced, snapping its spine in two. Clamping it in her wild, threatening jaws she neared her just as ferocious young. She loosened her grip and gently placed it in front of her squabbling cubs. Its glassy eyes never blinking, he snapped out of his day dreaming thoughts. Horrible visions of last night’s events flashed through his mind.

The body, the vermin and the blood. Whimpering through heart wrenching sobs, he tried to wipe his tear stained eyes so he could focus properly on the stretches of land ahead of him. They seemed so touchable and close. Sun rays danced like fairies on the horizon. Finally, realizing that sitting around wasn’t going to help,  he decided to walk around the edge of  the farmers field, keeping under cover in case anyone saw him. It was hard going through the thicket but James kept at it.

About three hours later James looked at his watch, it read seven o’clock.

Breakfast, the word thudded through his mind.

Creeping through the fields he noticed a rabbit. Soundlessly, he stalked it snapping out his penknife. With an almighty lunge he stabbed it. Blood seeped out of it creating a small pool. James solemnly drew out the penknife and quickly asked the lord for forgiveness.  Carrying the soft, furry creature back to his camp, James ate his roasted morsel then set about strolling back up to where he had found the body the night before. In the space of two hours James had reached the very spot he had been the previous night and once again the horrors came fresh in his mind.

James studied the body and eventually found what he was looking for. The mark of a dagger. He had been stabbed. Shock thundered through James like fiery storm.

He was stabbed. But why?  Instantly, dozens of ideas tumbled into his mind.

A horrible thought flashed into his head. He was murdered!

“No this can’t be real,” His voice scarcely a whisper.

“This isn’t real!” He yelled.

Defiant tears rolled down his cheeks as the thought took over his mind.

It was getting late and the sky was black and the stars were shinning. He had once been told that the stars were great big balls of fire but on a chilly night like this they looked on at him like tiny slithers of impenetrable ice.

He curled himself into a tight ball and stared at the sky. Fear was pulsing through his veins. Eventually he stretched himself out and fell into a dreamless sleep.

Chapter 3

Blood sweat and more tears

Suddenly, James awoke with a startled cry. He was thinking of his Dad and best friend up in Hell together. Being tortured, dieing and reliving the same moment again and again. Yes, his father was dead. Michael had never liked him much but James did. That was partly the reason why he had run away. Tears broke free. “Oh for all the lives on this Earth stop crying, James!” He thought.

Pulling himself together, James sprinted along down the hill away from the body far away and tried to piece it together. A newspaper clipping fluttered by. Quickly, he caught it and read it. Ghosts stepped through him, well he looked like one. His blood ran cold. Dropping the clipping accidentally, he scrambled over to pick it up then read it aloud.      “ Mr and Mrs Stilgoe an elderly couple were both stabbed on the 15^th  of November. The murderer has not yet been found but police are on the case.” The whole world came to a standstill. They were his neighbours. He couldn’t piece it together to make sense. Reflecting upon what happened, he realised that these deaths occurred after he ran away. And they were people he liked. “But why?” He pondered on. “Why?” He thought.        “Why… just another deceitful meaningless word. Words are pointless now” James considered. Unexpectedly, he was sent back in a flashback seeing things as mere shadows

µµµ

“Why do you always get everything wrong? You’re a good for nothing wife… you got that. Remember it comes out, if you put a toe out of line again Mel. I could do it ya know? … I have no heart for you, but nothing is said to the boy, got it? Yeah, well now I’m … I’m … and say nothing else”

µµµ

Straining his mind he realised abruptly it was his Dad threatening his Mum. How could he forget that happened?! It was only a week ago. A horrible thought occurred to him, he couldn’t remember it all! There were pieces missing. The key to every happening was no longer there because he was dead. Another thought struck him like a snake striking its prey. He said “I have no heart for you”, meaning… that he died not loving his Mum. It felt as if someone poured iced water on his head because suddenly he felt a shiver run down his spine like a runner sprinting to the finish, but only then did he realise it was raining. The heavens had opened. Crawling to the shelter of a bush he lay down and slept. Although what he wasn’t to know, his mind was slowly thinking over the conversation, unwontedly disturbing his sleep.

Chapter 4

Wanted

Not a scream was heard as the knife was thrust into her. Unmercifully, it pierced her lungs, draining every last breath out of her. Mel fell to the ground. The glass she was holding smashed like ice into thousands of tiny shards. Not another breath was to sneak back in to her lifeless body. A fair forty-eight years of age. Soon he had fled. The man behind this cruelty.  

µµµ

Instantly, James woke up sensing something wasn’t right. Looking round into the semi darkness, nothing seemed particularly out of the ordinary. Deciding it was time to get up, regardless to the fact it was indeed still raining, he crawled out from under the bush and studied the idea of breakfast. Yes, he was hungry, but how was he to catch so much as a mouthful in this weather? There were no rabbits in sight or any squirrels to be seen scurrying up trees or anywhere for that matter. He couldn’t feast on bugs, that was just plain disgusting!

No, he had to find something substantial and not hugely gross. Suddenly it came to him, fish was the answer. Seeing as there was a stream nearby it surly wasn’t going to be a huge problem… or was it? Soon he found a strong, sharp stick and gently but firmly tried to pierce the body of a trout that to his disappointment was way too fast for him. Steadying himself, he struck again to jab a rather large salmon. With all its might the salmon tried to wriggle free but James was too quick. He lunged for it and caught it. Suddenly, he toppled over into the water. In a quick, but hardly graceful movement, he threw the fish onto the bank and tried desperately to clamber on and up after it. Splashing wildly, he gave up. The water was sapping his energy faster than a cheetah after a wasted chase. Tumbling amongst the waves, he was thrown under, oblivious to the fact it was deeper than he had before imagined. Weak and defenceless he grasped onto a root on the waterside and hauled himself up. Unexpectedly, hard clumps of the crumbling bank came, hitting him on the head. Every thing went blank. Slowly, he drifted down the river. Rain lashing out that scarred him with coldness. Soon the river became a smooth flowing stream and that is where he laid, blood gushing out of his nose, rain clawing at him with a sickly smile on it’s face as if to say “Look who’s laughing now, eh?”

About an hour later he woke up. Shaking and shivering, he clambered out of the water. Slowly, he sat himself down and started reading a bin-discarded newspaper. The headline boomed out…

 

Murderer Kills 48 Year Old

‘A murder took place at 501 Bemberly Street, 12 o’clock midnight. Police are baffled as to why Mel Jason was killed. The police found a knife thrust in her back piercing her lungs. Also, the police will try to find fingerprints on the knife hoping for a clue as to who did it. James Jason is currently suspected. If you see this man, look for the posters locally positioned in shop windows and call the number displayed at the bottom. Keep updated at our website WWW.Shockingmurders.org.uk/dailymail

James sat in a stunned silence for several minutes, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was being suspected for a crime he didn’t commit. Being too angry to be upset for the death of his mother, his conscience immediately told him to try and solve the puzzle himself. Besides, he couldn’t go to the police for the fear he would be imprisoned. And he couldn’t go back home or to his mother because one: His mother is now dead; two: His neighbours are dead, and three: His home was being thoroughly searched. Realizing soon that he now was homeless and parentless the held back tears broke free and he sat there rocking slowly back and forth till he could cry no longer. “I wish I had never run away,” He muttered angrily to himself. By no means would he have thought that running away would have led him to such misery and despair. Finding himself in total and utter helplessness, he decided to regain his dignity and start wandering back up stream to hopefully find where his brunch was waiting for him, with any luck.

Chapter 5

Pain with no gain

Uneasily, James glanced at his watch. It read 10:00 am. He had been wading through stagnant water for almost half an hour when he came across the river that he had been fighting against earlier. Did he really have to face his past again? The bank was surly too steep to climb and he didn’t wish to encounter the unpleasantness of a nosebleed again. That soon reminded him to clean his bloody face and start swimming his way up the river. This, however, proved harder than he had thought. Soon he came to a small slope in the bank where he climbed out and lay there to rest, while he thought of a way to get a little further up stream. Suddenly, he saw an opening in the trees that he was sure, if he followed it, would lead him back to his breakfast. Within one and a half hours he was back to where he had thrown his fish but looking around it had gone. Cursing, he caught another fish and cooked it until it was thoroughly done. Ravenously, he ate, barely stopping for breath. Soon it was all gone. All that was left were the bones… bones. Putting this out of his mind, for he didn’t want to be reminded of it, he started to make his way to the nearest bench. Homeless. Parentless. Wanted. It just didn’t make sense at all, and even if it did he couldn’t work it out, at least not now. He felt isolated, so randomly caught up in all this.  Why him, and not some other person who could handle this sort of stuff? It was infuriating.  But the burning question at the back of his mind was how was he to deal with all of this? With no one to turn to he had no idea how to do anything right now. As it was getting late he decided to sleep it all off, if that was possible. Eventually, he thought to himself that it would be best to bother his spinning head in the morning. As nightfall came the sky blackened and the stars shone more brightly than ever, as if mourning the unfortunate deaths. Watching over James, the moon seemed to smile. The kind of smile you give a laughing baby. With that he fell into a deep, deep sleep.

                                                                                      

Chapter 6

The Sickly truth

Suddenly, James woke up feeling so hot and sticky that he was sure he would throw up at any second. Thankfully, he didn’t, but he still felt sick. He had been dreaming of his mother his dead mother. Why, he did not know. All he could remember of his dream was…

…a  knife was thrust into her back. He could hear no scream, just the dull thud of her hitting the floor. The glass of water she was holding smashed into tiny ice like shards of glass. Not another breath was to be sucked into her lifeless body. The man fled. James was sure he recognised the man but he could not be sure…

That was when he woke up felling ill, as he distinguished his features to be those of his own Father! He still felt giddy with shock. “But it could not be!”, he reasoned, “For why would my Father do that? And besides, he is dead so that can’t be true, and it was after all only a dream, wasn’t it?” Never had James felt so many emotions up till now. He felt angry, sad and giddy to name but a few. But the thing that truly shook him was that his dream was constantly being cross-focused. One minute he was looking clearly at the murder scene, and then he was looking at his Dad’s face as if he had something to do with it.

The other thing he still couldn’t understand, was that conversation he had overheard at least a week and a half ago. Did these things have a connection? He couldn’t be sure. Why had his parents had that argument? Maybe his Dad was behind the murder, but no that couldn’t be, he thought. But maybe he was, and there was only one way to find out… If he went home at the dead of night.  But what was it? Thinking back to his dream he remembered the knife… was that it? It made sense. So he had uncovered a little bit of the puzzle. He couldn’t exactly do much else because he was still a suspect.

Finally, but without much thought needed, he decided that he would go tonight and investigate the scene thoroughly.

 Later that night, James carefully crept along the lane until he reached his old house. Slowly, he took a deep breath and tiptoed into the house.  Out of the corner of his eyes he noticed the knife that killed his mother near the place she had laid. He crept over to it and held it carefully in his gloved hands, starting to examine it for fingerprints with some police equipment that had been left there overnight. He had also found something that used to belong to his father, that he dusted for prints, then the knife too, to compare them. They were a perfect match. Tears sprung to his eyes, he attempted blink them back, but they still flowed freely. His knuckles went white, he was petrified. Why hadn’t his father killed him or was he next? The thought burned in his mind like a match put to paper. Nothing but the dream of his mother’s death came to him. Suddenly, he realised that what he was looking at and the dream he had, was the same. Everything fitted: The finger prints on the knife suggest that she was stabbed, and the dream was the same as the actual scene of the crime. Also, that conversation, was starting to make sense. As he slowly stood up he knew he had to go. It would be useless staying here in case the police came to investigate. So with that, he went downstairs, out the door and disappeared into the night.

Chapter 7    

The Hunch

“I see there being no point at all in going after a boy we can’t find. He is clever but still incessantly dumb I have to say” A rough male voice stated as he smoked his pipe.

“Well that’s very convenient” twittered an old batty woman from the other side of the table.

“Please don’t be so childish, Belinda! There is no need for the sarcasm. But I do have a point; if he chooses a low profile then we will never get to him will we? I mean its common sense.”

“Ok, I already knew that, I may be old, but I’m not stupid. All we have to do is lure him here somehow that isn’t obvious to others, for all we know he could already be on his way here! We don’t have much time.”

“You make it sound too easy sis, you really do.”

.

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Soaked to the skin, James started to make his way back via the fields. It was getting dark and he needed to shelter from the pouring rain that looked like it would never stop. Realizing that there was nowhere to hide, he carried plodding on with an expression of misery on his face. Eventually, he came to the edge of the field where there was a bridge. Perfect, he would sleep in the shelter of the bridge. And that is where he lay, tossing and turning with his own thoughts. Dreaming of nothing but horror…

“Why do you always get everything wrong? You’re a good for nothing wife… you got that. Remember, it comes out if you put a toe out of line again Mel. I could do it ya know. … I have no heart for you, but nothing is said to the boy got it? Yeah well now I’m … I’m … and say nothing else…”

Rapidly, James woke up feeling extremely ill again. Sweat was dripping down his face he felt like he was going to throw up. Shakily, he stood up, climbed out of the ditch and lay on the cold earth beneath him. He had had that same dream again. “What did it mean?” He thought furiously. “God, why didn’t any of this make sense?” All he wanted was for it to stop. Slowly, as he sat there, he began to try and work out the conversation. He spoke the first sentence out loud:

“Why do you always get everything wrong? You’re a good for nothing wife…” What was that missing bit?  Well it had to be a threat he knew that for sure. After 5 minutes, the only one thing that fitted was ‘I could kill you’. He knew it was harsh but it made sense. The second sentence he also read aloud:

“Remember it comes out again if you put a toe out of line again Mel. I could do it, ya know.” He already knew that it was the knife, so without any further investigation he recited the final sentence:

“…… I have no heart for you, but nothing is said to the boy, got it? Yeah well now I’m …. I’m… and say nothing else” For almost an hour he came up with the wildest suggestions, but in the end, he came up with this:

“Why do you always get everything wrong? You’re a good for nothing wife. I could kill you, got that? Remember the knife comes out if you put another toe out of line Mel. I could do it ya know? I have done it before, I have no heart for you but nothing is said to the boy, got it? Yeah well now I’m leaving, say to him I’m dead ok? And say nothing else.” And then out of the blue, James knew what he would do… He would hunt his father down himself.

Chapter 8

Preparation

That very next night James crept back into his old house, into his bedroom and collected his savings from his piggy bank. Soon he was outside counting every penny. It totalled £135.48. Sighing with relief he gathered it up and headed for the town shops. If he kept his hood up, he wouldn’t be recognised. Firstly, he went into a café where he spent £3.50 on hot scones with jam. Secondly, he went into the hairdressers to get a completely new hair cut. James came out with bright ginger hair and his usually shoulder length hair cropped to a manageable length. Thirdly, he went into a make-up shop and bought some foundation, tweezers, a mirror and nail clippers. Lastly, he entered a piercing shop, where he got one ear pierced with great discomfort. Soon though, he was truly done shopping and made his way back “home” to the bridge where he had temporarily set up camp. Using his mirror, he plastered his face with foundation, and then plucked his eyebrows till his eyebrows were no longer bushy but straight and thin. Next he trimmed his nails back and cleaned them. Now he looked completely different. Once happy that he wasn’t recognisable, he counted the rest of his money, it came to just over £50, and just enough to serve him until he got to his Dad. Although tired, he dismantled the shelter and destroyed the scene to its original state, covering up all tracks he had made. Immediately after this was completed to his standard, he started at a brisk walk through town as a new man. James had thought hard about where his Dad could be, but then thought that he must be at his Aunt’s, as they both despised him He knew his Aunt’s house was about 50 miles from here and his only way of transport was walking on his own two feet. Problem was he didn’t know exactly where, so he bought a map from a local shop and studied it hard. Soon he found the right place but realised that it was a longer journey than he had anticipated, being more like 70 miles. He knew it would take days until he reached his Aunt’s, so he wasted no more time in getting going. A voice inside his head whispered, “You’re mad walking 70 miles to get to your stupid Aunt’s house. You got to be a nutter to even think about doing that!” But even so James ignored the words that filled his head.

At least two days had passed, leaving James so exhausted that he gave in and decided to find a motel or hotel. It took some time finding a room with suitable prices, but in the end he found one in The Rosemary Motel, which he had to admit was not the prettiest sight ever but was dry and had a bed at least. Immediately after he was booked in, he went upstairs, had a bath and then slept a peaceful, soundless sleep.

James woke up early the next morning. He felt full of energy, and wished he could stay longer. The softness of his bed had been sweet respite from the ravages of sleeping rough. Gradually, he pulled himself up into a sitting position, swung his legs round, and rose from the bed. After brushing his teeth, gently, he plastered on the remainders of his foundation, tidied his now manageable hair and went downstairs for breakfast. He ate as politely as his ravenous hunger would allow, whilst trying to work out how far he could walk before having to stop again. On his map, he carefully planned out a suitable route to take. Suddenly, he looked up from his map to see three policemen wandering around the breakfast area. Whilst he was pretending to study the map a young officer came over with a glass of water in his hand. He was a short, surly man with a permanent quizzical expression on his face, slightly concealed by a pair of glasses that covered his piercing blue eyes. “Hello son, wha’ might you be doin’ travellin’ out on your own?” Said the booming voice of the police officer.

James replied in a deep put-on voice “I am on my way to my Aunt’s”

“How old are you then?”

“24”, he found the lie came easily.

“You certainly don’t look it.” He reasoned. It couldn’t have happened quicker, a man bumped up against the policeman who slopped the glass of water all over James’s face. Forgetting he had make-up on he wiped his face with the sleeve of his jumper. The policeman looked at him and suddenly the whole breakfast bar went still. Looking down at his sleeve, then his reflection in the glass he ran. Sprinting full pelt to the door he thundered out. Cursing he ran, barely stopping for breath. Panicking wildly he dived into a nearby bush and started wading through the thicket. After 10 minuets he stopped for a second and checked if he was being followed. Before long he was satisfied that there was nobody following him so he decided that he would set up a temporary shelter in the trees.

He decided it would be safer to stay put, and after a long struggle, he calmed down enough to just about close his eyes. High up in the trees he laid undisturbed. Waiting the next day of his life to arrive.

Chapter 9

On the move

In the blink of an eye James was up, He had heard the snapping of twigs under foot. Breathing heavily, he sat up and peered down at the ground below. Then a dreaded sight met his eyes; there were at least half a dozen dogs there and they all had the fluorescent jackets on that said Police. Swiftly, he sat back and grabbed a handful of moss and started to rub it over his body in hope it would mask his scent. Well it seemed to work for a while as the dogs turned and left. James knew that he had to move camp in the morning otherwise he would surely be caught.

Gradually, James fell asleep again, wishing not to be disturbed again. As the moon dipped on the horizon and the sun came out to play, dew appeared on the forest floor. All was still.

James glanced at his battered watch: it read 9:00am. Quickly, James started to dismantle his shelter and mask any signs that he’d ever been there. James made very short work of this and before long was off, searching out another good place to shelter. Being on the run from the police and searching for his Aunt proved harder than he had once thought it to be. As he was walking through the forest he kept wondering if he was going in the right direction, or if he was being followed. In what seemed like only minutes he came to a new road. Yet again he looked at his watch: it read 12:00pm. He couldn’t risk hitch-hiking in case he was recognised, so he carried on under the cover of the bushes, keeping his hood up and looking constantly at his map. He could just remember where his Aunt lived, 80-something Upturling Street. But getting there was only one of his problems. The other thing was how could he be sure his Aunt still lived there and if his Dad did too? He knew it was impossible to know, but it didn’t faze him. As he carried on his painstakingly long walk, he soon realised that his face was covered in smudged make-up and moss, so he ventured further in the forest. Much to his pleasure, he came to a stream, where he took time to rinse his make-up and moss coated body. After drying off, he resumed plodding on through the forest, feeling a little better now he was clean again.

 Suddenly, he came to a stop as the forest in front of him had turned into a steady path along the edge of the road. James however could not see far in front of him as he was coming to a sharp bend. Afraid to move any further he turned his back on the path and ventured back deep into the forest, where he sat down in the low branches of a tree. In his mind he slowly went over what he would do next. Soon he thought that if he carried on through the forest he may come to an opening near where he wanted to be,  but to his dismay he saw on his map it was at least a 10km walk. He was tired. He resolved to take that route even though it may take another day or so to get to his Aunt Belinda’s house. Moving as carefully as he could through the winding brambles, James headed north in hope it would lead him to the open road. Although he was heading for a main road James had no intention of going there. He had seen on his map a footpath that he hoped would lead him through the fields and round to Bedgebury road about 40 miles from where his Aunt was.

Night was falling and he had only covered 7km of ground. James calculated that if he were to get to Bedgebury road then he would have to walk at least another 10 miles. Finally exhausted, he set up a make-do camp in the trees again, this time he rubbed moss over him before he slept just encase he was being followed. As the sun slowly vanished beyond the horizon the moon rose gracefully up, it illuminated the charcoal black sky. But James however took no notice, and just laid back and closed his eyes, willing sleep to come and swallow him whole in its jaws of peacefulness.

Chapter 10

Snow

James woke up shaking violently, his whole body freezing. He had no idea what on earth was happening. He looked up and saw it was snowing! Laughing at his own stupidity he got up and started to climb down the boughs of the tree, until his feet rested firmly on the ground. Slowly, he looked around. Memories flooded back to him of when he was little and he would be up and outside all bundled up playing snowball fights with his best friend… but sadly those days were over. Slowly, James crouched down and, unable to resist the temptation, he thrust his hand into the gleaming white powder. Sharply, he pulled his arm back. It was icy cold. Breathing into his cupped hands James got up and steadied himself, as it was indeed very slippery. Wishing he had better shoes on, James made his way through the falling snow. James guessed it must be some time in December by now. A pang of guilt and long past memories of his childhood Christmases zapped at his heart like an electric shock. Maybe he thought if he hadn’t run away he would be sitting at home with his Mother, but no, he told himself sternly, there was nothing that could be done about that. Even so, he felt his eyes well up and a small lump form at the back of his throat. He swallowed it down and carried on his laborious journey through the snow.

James looked around him. He could see many leafless trees, their arms clawing the air. Snow and icicles clung to them. Looking up, he realised that the snowfall had eased and the sun was just peeping out from behind the clouds. Seeing a small area that was so well covered with trees that there was no snow at all, James decided to take shelter for a while and work out how long it would be until he reached Bedgebury road. He calculated it was about half a  mile more until he came to the footpath, which itself went on for another mile! And already James was unbelievably tired. He needed sleep but feared stopping, in case he gave up entirely. So James got up and started making his way across the snowy ground.

As James was walking along a steady snow covered path, his feet began to feel very numb. On top of this, he had a headache coming on, but of course he thought nothing of this. He just pushed it away and carried on his journey. But soon after he began to feel dizzy and as if there was someone watching him. As if there were eyes everywhere. Snap! James spun round as quick as a bullet train, and scanned the area. Suddenly, a nauseating feeling overcame his entire body and he ducked into the bushes where he was sick everywhere. Wiping his mouth on his sleeve he realised he was shaking like a leaf in a breeze. Was it just him, or was every thing spinning?  He felt exhausted. James stood up and steadied himself up against a tree. His nose was streaming and his eyes had gone puffy. James looked around and saw nettles. Of course he was allergic to the nettle sting. He wasn’t that worried, but still felt incredibly sick. Normally his mother would be there to comfort him, but of course she wasn’t. His vision was fading fast. A searing pain thundered through his head. Then everything went black.

James woke up in a daze. His whole body felt awful. Shakily he got up. His eyelids felt heavy and gummed up. He dusted the snow off his body and looked for a place to rest whilst the effect of the nettles wore off. Soon he spotted the snow-less area where he had rested. He decided to wait there again for a while. Half crawling, half walking, he made his way over and flopped down. He was utterly freezing all over, so he decided to create a small fire. When this was complete, he lay down and closed his eye next to the fire where he rested but did not sleep for a while. When satisfied that he was warm enough he extinguished the fire and went to sleep.

Chapter 11

Red Snow

A man all dressed in black hovered in the shadows. Slowly, he crept along the narrow winding path that lead to a little shop. He forced it open and smashed the burglar alarm to pieces, not a sound emitted from it. Suddenly, he heard footsteps coming from above. Stealthily, he ducked behind a display board. The shop owner came down in his dressing gown. Only a small mouse-like man, Michael thought, this would be easy. Swiftly, Michael stood up taking the man by surprise. He pointed the knife at him, leisurely walking forward, delaying every second until it pressed against his throat. “Is everything ok?” A woman’s voice called from upstairs.

“Say, it’s fine.” Michael growled.

“Oh don’t worry darling I’ll be up in a minute” He called. With that Michael yanked his head back making his neck click loudly.

“What do you want from me? I’ll give you all the money you want. Please just let me go…” He stammered. Michael said in undertone ignoring him completely “Just answer this question: Are you cousin to a boy called James Jason?”

“Son to Mel Jason, why yes of…” But he was cut short as Michael punched him hard. He fell over and knocked into a display. “What on earth are you doing down there?” came the woman’s voice.

“Oh don’t worry darling just fell over the cat, stay in bed, okay darling? I’m just doing another check over.” He answered as steadily as he could.

He looked up at his attacker, with eyes puffy and full of plea. But Michael’s cold heart took no notice; he just strode over and knelt down beside him. He positioned the knife over his victim’s heart, the point just touching. “Tell me again are you or are you not cousin to James Jason, son to Mel and Michael Jason?” He repeated. He took one look at the knife, small beads of sweat appearing on his forehead and lower lip. He drew a deep breath, closed his eyes, just managing to whisper a feeble “Yes”. That was all it needed. The knife was drawn back then thrust hard into his chest. He pulled the knife back out. Before it plunged into him he just managed to open his eyes in disbelief, but now they just stared emptily. An old clock in the corner struck midnight. Michael got up and started upstairs. He paused as the woman called down again “Charlie will you please tell me what you are doing?!”

 “There will be no need for that,” Michael said as he emerged   out of the shadows. He strolled forward keeping his knife hand steady pointing at her chest. She made no sound as he softly spoke “Are you the related to James Jason? A simple yes or no will do.”

“No, but my husband is.” She whispered. Suddenly, two children came running in the youngest screaming, “Daddy won’t wake up and he’s covered in blood!”

“What! What have you done to him?”

“Never mind” Michael retorted spitefully “ Does it really matter anyway” He sneered pushing the frightened children out the way. “That’s better now I have a clear path”.

“No please don’t kill me no please don’t…”

“Oh ok then.” He turned to face her children.

“Mummy, what’s he gonna do to us?” The eldest asked.

“No I beg you not my children. please kill me please…”

“Oh so you have changed your mind again, eh?” She nodded frantically.

“Well too late!” He roared. He thrust the knife into their chests in turn. They slumped to the floor. “Jesus Christ, no! Please leave us alone! No…No…” She stammered with desperation in her voice.

“Oh… Jesus Christ… Blah, blah, blah” He mimicked sourly. “Pur-lease, give me a break.” Without another second of thought he thrust the knife into her. She flopped forward. Michael paused for a second then climbed down the stairs and out of the shop door only waiting to see if anyone was about. He stooped down and wiped the blood from his knife into the snow. The blade gleamed in the semi darkness. Michael crept back into the shadows, not a sound to be heard, as he wandered on into the darkness and out of sight

Chapter 12

Bedgebury Road

James awoke; he looked at his watch it read 10:00am. James got up and peered around him. When he saw the nettles he jumped and started backing up through the snow. When he was a good 5 metres away James was satisfied that he needn’t be afraid of having a bad allergic reaction again. Thinking calmly, he looked at his torn map again. It showed that he was becoming very close to his destination. Only a mile left till he was at the footpath that led to Bedgebury road. James moved on with a slight spring in his step; he was humming a little tune as he went. James felt confident that he would get to Bedgebury road before the light faded. But first he had to get something to eat, as he was ravenous. Squirrel…rabbit…pigeon…no no it had to be rabbit. James had seen a group of rabbits a little way off. If he climbed the tree a little way up and jumped off he might be able to seize one. This he managed with much agility, skill and speed. Soon he had a small fire going with it roasting gently. He discarded what little was left of the carcass for the birds or whatever was lurking in the forest to pick at. The thought made him shudder so he quickly finished of his meal and carried on his journey to the footpath. James felt rather satisfied with the meal inside him so much so that his low meaningless hum turned into a lively bouncy tune. As he walked on through the trees he started thinking about himself as a little boy, but this time playing with his Mum, Dad and adopted sister Jessica. James would have given anything to be there with her. He had loved her so much but his parents couldn’t handle her. She was always getting into mischief. He loved playing hide-and-seek with her when they were little. Sometimes they would even have their cousins round. Especially John. I wonder how he’s getting on? James wondered. Apparently, he started a small business in a shop with 2 children. They loved hiding with him and getting James to find them as he made such a big game out of it all. He wished he were there with them now but some how James knew that it would never happen. James didn’t let his thoughts run away with him so he continued his painstaking journey to the footpath.

After about half an hour James arrived at the footpath. It was quite narrow and overgrown but he knew his thick jumper and jeans would be good protection against the brambles. James even put his hood up so his face wouldn’t become scratched. Whilst fighting his way through the brambles a thought struck him like a lightning bolt. His sister Jessica lived in a care home at 35 Bedgebury close. He had thought the name rang a bell…but he realised he wouldn’t be able to visit her. He promised himself he would after. She must be about 10 years old now he thought. The very thought made his eyes well up so he quickly pushed it out of his mind. As he carried his journey his pathway became slightly bigger on both sides and there were hardly any brambles there as well. The relief showed on his face as a huge grin was embedded. Suddenly, he had an idea. As he was so tired with walking he thought if he could hitchhike to Bargrove Road he could walk to 87 Upturling Street. He liked that idea and now that he had a rough plan of what he was going to do next which comforted him greatly. He looked at his map. He traced a rough route with his finger. Mentally, he calculated ½ a mile until he reached Bedgebury Road.

About another ¼ of a mile later James began fighting against brambles again. Wishing he hadn’t taken this path he soon reminded himself that he was wanted by police and people would recognise him, so unfortunately he had to stick to this awkward route. Panting hard James leant up against a green uneven topped fence. James looked up at the sky; he had not realised how dark it was getting. He peered at his watch; it read 3:00pm. He knew he had to get going so he could reach the end of the footpath and hitchhike to Bargrove road. Eventually, he managed to see an opening into Bedgebury Road. James darted forward eager to get to the opening. Suddenly, he heard voices, reckless teenagers. He stayed in the shadows. As they went by he inhaled noisily. His heart thumped against his chest, he was sure they could hear it but he still stayed as silent as possible. Soon they had passed and their voices were no more than a whisper now. He crept out and exhaled. It was a quite ordinary looking street with bushes or trees in every garden, cut to perfection. The roses were pruned and it showed no sign of any human life. It looked deserted. A Street light flickered above him making a shiver creep up his spine. Gently, he pulled his hood up so his face couldn’t be seen unless you were trying. The headlights of a car illuminated the road. James stuck his thumb out and the car swerved over. The woman rolled down the window although it was the man that first spoke to James.

“Hey son, need a lift?” He asked his soft complexion looking at him. His eyes raked his face as if trying to read it like a puzzle.
 “Oh, yes please.” James replied turning his head slightly.

“ Alrigh’, then where to?”

“Bargrove Road please.”

“ Can do. Hop in.”

James carefully opened the door and slid in. He buckled his seat.  “ Do you mind if I take a small nap because I’m really tired” James asked slowly careful not to give to much information away.

“ No don’t let us stop you”

Thankfully James closed his eyes and drifted into sleep.

Chapter 13

The Journey

James awoke to the sound of sirens. Sleepily, he opened one eye then both. It was 10:30pm. He glanced outside finding that they had stopped. James peered into the front and it surprised him to see only the woman was in the front. Politely as he could, trying to hide the impatience in his voice he asked her why they had stopped. Without looking at him she replied stonily, “We have stopped to get something to eat and drink.” James clearly realised that the irritability in his voice was quite overpowering and came out too harshly.

“Oh I’m sorry I was just wondering why we weren’t there, It’s just…well…it’s quite important you see? I didn’t mean to snap.”

“That’s quite alright dear. Apology accepted. Anyway how was your sleep?” She asked her face blossoming into a smile. He desperately wanted to say it was the best he had had in ages but he didn’t want to arouse suspicion so he merely said “Oh it was fine thanks.” Because it wasn’t a lie exactly was it? After all, it was fine. But even after his attempts to make it sound genuine she still looked rather suspicious. Like her husband, in the reflection she scanned his face for clues as to who he might be. Suddenly she went white as a sheet clasping her mouth with her hands. She twisted in her seat to look right at him, and then rummaged into her handbag to pull out a piece of folded paper. With shaking hands she unfolded and peered at the sheet, then looked at him. Her eyes widened with fear. “Oh God please tell me she hasn’t realised it was me!” He wondered wildly. After painfully long seconds of waiting she spoke “You’re James Jason aren’t you?” Her voice shook as she spoke. James exhaled, “Yes” He confessed, “But really, I’m not what it seems. All that…” He indicated to the flyer “…is lies. I haven’t killed anyone. It was my Dad and he’s coming for me next, that’s why I’m trying to find him first. Not to harm him.” He reassured as she looked as frightened as ever “ No, I couldn’t hurt a fly without feeling guilty, but to get revenge some how. Just please believe me.  He’s the bloodthirsty, one not me” He pleaded his eyes full of moisture. “ I…I believe…you” She said slowly but firmly. Yet again she rummaged into her bag and pulled out a newspaper. Dread flooded through his veins. It pulsed around his heart, choking him. He reached out with a shaky hand and took it from her. Slowly he scanned the words. It read:

Murderer Strikes Again

John, Eve and their children were murdered on the 25^th of December. The burglar alarm was smashed to pieces and there were no traces of fingerprints or any other pieces of evidence that revealed who could have murdered John and Eve.

James couldn’t read on, as he was so upset. His cousin John and Eve his wife, his lovely wife. Why was he doing this? Anger thundered through his veins his expression turned from sorrow to a seething anger. Urgently, the woman spoke “Quick pretend to be asleep again I promise I won’t say a word to any one or the police!” Smoothly, James handed the paper back to her and closed his eyes. The man opened the car and stepped in closing the door behind him loudly which made him jump. He opened his eyes trying to look like he had been asleep. The man offered some chicken wings from KFC, which James gratefully accepted and wolfed down, not eating this well since the incident at the Motel. Gradually, he sipped at his coke till it was all gone. Then he asked how much longer it would be until they reached Bargrove Road. Apparently it was only an hour until the got there…Midnight. A sinking feeling started to settle in the pit of his stomach. No matter what he did it wouldn’t shift. It kept him awake the whole way there. He was dreading confronting his Dad and Aunt. Never had he been more afraid. The woman driving noticed this and nodded to him he smiled back as best he could but his muscles wouldn’t do what he wanted them to do. He peered out of the foggy glass. His breath made it even worse so he gave it up. All he wanted was for it to all be over and be one big dream.

Chapter 14

Bargrove Road

The car cruised up to the pavement. James thanked them graciously and stepped out into the cool night air. The woman rolled down the window and said, “Be safe, and watch your back.” James looked slightly puzzled and started digging around in his pockets until his hand touched a crisp £10 note. He drew out his hand and gave it to the woman “Here…thanks for everything, sorry it’s not much…” But to his surprise she rejected it “No. You need it more than I do.” Slightly dazed he put it back into his pocket. She winked at him and James smiled back. Before he could say another word she rolled up the window and drove away. He stepped back and looked around him. Rows and rows of bushes covered in a white layer of snow scattered about in gardens. It crunched beneath his cold feet. A chilly breeze swept his hair away from his face. He looked up to the cloudy sky. The moon shone eerily through the thin clouds. It sent a shiver down his spine. He had an odd sense of DejaVu. James realised it would be too dark to venture on so he decided to hitchhike again to Hum-Furling Road. James’s feet had gone numb he stamped on them. The headlights of a car swerved round the corner. He seized this opportunity and signalled to the driver to stop. He acknowledged him and pulled into the curb. The automatic window rolled down. A man’s face appeared. He had a long unshaven beard and piercing blue eyes. “Need a lift son? Asked a kind voice that didn’t befit the face it came from.

“Oh yes please. Um… by any chance will you be passing Hum-furling Road?” James asked as he stepped in the front passenger seat.
 “Erm… yeah I think so le’me check. One sec.” He replied as he studied the SatNav on his window. “Yes

that’s right, yup I’m heading that way.” James smiled with satisfaction. The man peered at his face as if like the other couple trying to read his face. Unfortunately, he was nosier. Immediately, a question formed on his lips “Say sonny, wha’ ya doin’ out this late at night?”  Panicking slightly, James raked his mind for an excuse so James came out with the pathetic excuse of “Well it’s quite along story (Which it is James thought) and well basically I’m visiting my aunt and well I kinda…err, broke down.” He mumbled slowly “Yes I broke down.” He repeated for what he hoped would shut the man up. Thankfully, it did and he turned and focused on the road. They drove in silence. The SatNav beeped and gave directions. James glanced over. It said they would be there in 5 minutes. James was really nervous now. What if he had come all the way here for nothing? What if they were waiting for him? What if they tried to kill him? Just thinking about it made him shiver. Suddenly, the car stopped. James stepped out into the icy night air. He thanked him and stepped onto the pavement. The man drove away not giving James enough time to offer to pay anything. He glanced at his worn-out watch. 12:15am. Walking on for a while longer, tired, blistered feet soon persuaded him to rest. Refuge came in the shade of some bushes where no one would instantly see him. He rested his head on a thick branch and got comfortable enough to close his eyes His thoughts whirled with questions, but he laid a mental brick wall down in his mind to shut them out. It worked and soon James was peacefully asleep.

James awoke to the sound of birds chirping. He climbed out of the bush and stiffly looked around him. The sun was…setting? He quickly glanced at his watch it read 4:00pm. He had slept far too long for his liking but still he couldn’t change it now. He had to get going soon or he would never get there in time. Eventually, he started moving. His legs had gone dead from trying to sleep in such a cramped place, although, they loosened up with walking. Right now he didn’t really care if someone spotted him and called the police. He would be doing that later. He knew it was reckless but he also knew that he had done nothing wrong, so he was safe (sort of he thought). James quickly studied his map. According to the map he had to take a right then a left and a final left after that. It wasn’t far but the walk was making him more nervous and he kept pulling his hands through his already matted hair. He inhaled slowly and looked at the road name. Upturling Street was written on it in thick, black letters. He almost forgot how to exhale but he managed with a little difficulty. He rounded the corner. It was like mansion city. All the houses here were gigantic. Their driveways were nothing special, but the actual houses were as big as three houses side by side and about four stories high. James was stunned, he had always known his aunt was quite rich but never had he imagined she was this rich! He walked up the path studying the numbers on each side until he reached 87…

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Chapter 15

 Will this be the end?

Suddenly, bang! The bullet revolved in slow motion. It seemed to hover in mid-air. A cry was heard, a scream of ‘No!’ But it was too late. The bullet sunk into James right arm, splattering blood everywhere. The force knocked him back. His body hit the ground. He didn’t stir. Was he dead?

Blood pulsed free from his arm like water poured from a beaker. James heard footsteps coming towards him but he stayed quiet. Trying to slow his breathing he felt someone lean over him. “You’ve killed him Belinda. I can’t believe it that was my job!” Disgusted by his Father’s words, he sat up and punched him as hard as he could in the face. Michael sprang back yelping in pain and anger. His mobile phone spilled out from his jeans pocket as he stood up. James grabbed it then ran into the back garden, diving into the safety of the trees that grew at the back. With fumbling fingers James dialled 999. Soon James was satisfied they were on their way.

James sat in silence his heart thumping loudly in his chest. Every bone in his body heaved with every breath. There was silence. Straining his ears he heard the distance a cry of sirens. James thought they were here but they weren’t. It was a distant siren. Foolishly, he bounded out to greet them…

Bang! Another bullet soared through the air. Bang, Bang, Bang! Several other bullets exploded from the gun. James turned round and almost fell over in shock. It was his Dad trying to kill him. Bang, Bang, Bang! More bullet fire emitted from behind his he spun round and saw to nobody’s surprise Belinda. They were closing in on him. Unexpectedly, Belinda lashed out from behind gagging him and holding his arms tightly behind him. Thrusting his head back by his hair, James eyes widened with fear. His Dad approached with his own gun, pointing it at his throat. Sweat was dripping down James face. Panic was overcoming him; he felt his legs turn to jelly. His body was tensing up. Eventually, she released her grip across his mouth but kept a firm hold of his hair and arm. James tried to speak but only a strangled gurgling noise came out.  “Ha ha! Oh yes, James, we have got you! We knew you would come… eventually. It was just a matter of waiting.” His Dad said with a sickly yet menacing smile plastered on his face.

Finding his voice James managed to get out “But why? Why do this to me, my Mum who you loved, my best friend, our neighbours and robbing that shop, killing everyone there?”

“Idiot boy did you really think, or even hope that he loved you, or your… Mother? He despises you both, just as I do.” His aunt yelled hysterically, her hair usually in a tight bun now falling limply over her back but she took no notice. Her gun now pointed at the other side of his neck. James saw a police man come round the corner and yell “Stop what you are doing! Drop the weapons.”

They didn’t let go, but did slacken their grip enough to give James an opportunity to take control. James twisted his arm round in one fluid movement, snatching both guns from the grip of Michael and Belinda, throwing them to the police officer. Immediately, James recognized it was the man he had met in the Motel.  He didn’t say anything it seemed he had forgotten about the little ‘incident’ but when he saw James he winked at him. James returned a smile, feeling triumphant as Michael and Belinda were handcuffed and taken to the police car.

“Nasty wound you got there looks like it just scraped the skin off, no worries there. Here, let me bandage it for you, it’ll heal in no time… might leave a bit of a scar though…” He rambled on whilst slowly and carefully bandaging the wound, “Need a lift home son?” he continued.

“I’m sorry sir I don’t really know where my home is” James admitted miserably. “Call me Harry; don’t worry. Go back to your old house ok? Is it to my understanding that you live at 501 Bemberly Street?” He asked.

“Er... yes at least I think so anyway…Yes that sounds right”

“In that case hop in, I’ll give you a ride home, ok?”

“Thank you very much Harry.” On that note James flopped into the passenger seat of the police vehicle and closed his eyes. Then suddenly he remembered his promise and said, “First if you wouldn’t mind could you stop off at 35 Bedgebury Close.” The policeman looked bemused, but agreed. As they drove on James started getting butterflies in his stomach. Would she remember who he was?

They pulled up and James got out weak at the knees. Steadying his breathing, he walked up the path to the big brass handled door. He knocked three times and waited for an answer. A young woman appeared at the door. She had long blond hair and startlingly beautiful emerald green eyes. “Hello…. Can I help?” Her voice shocked him slightly and it took him a moment to find his voice.
“Um, can I see Jessica Jason please?” She raised an eyebrow and said slowly,

“James Jason?” He panicked slightly inside but kept a straight face,

“Um, yes, Jessica is my sister…” She looked at him and stepped aside letting him in.
“I will go and get her” He could hear girls giggling in another room down the hall. Unexpectedly, James heard the sound of a girls soft footsteps coming out into the hall. Her face emerged, their eyes met. “J…James?” She stuttered. She had her hair held in two long blonde plaits over her ears. Her eyes were the same as he remembered, just like his Mum’s: Bright green with a gorgeous, energetic sparkle to them. She looked so much like her. “Yes. Jessica it’s me.” He replied just as amazed as she was. She ran towards him and flung her arms around his neck, crying into his shoulder. He cried too. Seeing her again was all he had ever wanted. He had been so close to never seeing her ever again and breaking the promise he had made her. Suddenly, the young woman came down the stairs and stood gawping at them finally she spoke,

“She knew you would come back for her. She never forgot you and prayed for you every night. I was amazed she never gave up…” She cut off tears welling up in her eyes too.

“Yes I have come to adopt her today” He said firmly. Jessica’s eyes lit up. “Really? You’re…you’re going to take me home?” She asked.

“Yes. Of course if that’s what you want…” He began but he didn’t need a spoken answer as she flung her arms around his again. Over her shoulder he glanced at the woman and mouthed ‘Please for me…for Jessica please’

“I’m sure you’ll be able to, but it will take a while. I’m sure we can come to some arrangement…” She rummaged around in a drawer and brought out some papers and handed them to him. He smiled and scanned them quickly,

“I will send these back to you as soon as possible” He looked down at Jessica,

“You’re going to have to stay here for a little while, whilst I get this all sorted, but you are a good girl and I will have you home in no time, I promise” And he meant it.

“I expect I will be seeing you a lot and often” He winked warmly at her. With that he spun around and waltzed out the door pausing to blow a cheeky kiss to both Faye and Jessica who blushed and giggled. He waved as he got into the police car and blew another kiss to Jessica who gave her best attempt at a wink back.  He lent back in his seat and closed his tired eyes.

  He had honestly forgotten what it was like to have a good sleep with no disturbances just the low, gentle hum of the car engine as they slowly cruised back to where it all began. The place where James would now like to call home. The place where he would soon start a family, the place where he would remain for evermore.