Free Sample
Preview from chapter one
I look over at my sister Rebecca, who is fidgeting nervously with the hem of her shirt. She hasn't said a word in hours, lost in thought as the distant rumble of thunder echoes through the house. The last storm we had was over two years ago, and she was terrified. She's 19 now, but the fear hasn't left her. She keeps glancing out the window, her eyes widening with each flash of lightning that pierces the gathering darkness.
Our parents had left early this morning for their friend's wedding, leaving us in charge of the house. They had warned us about the storm that was approaching, but we didn't expect it to hit so soon. "Rebecca," I call out gently, trying to break her trance, "it's just a storm. Nothing to worry about."
I watch as Rebecca's eyes dart over to me, and she nods, trying to convince herself more than me. Her cheeks are pale, and her breathing shallow. The rain starts to pick up, tapping against the window like a thousand tiny drums. "You're right, Liam," she whispers, her voice shaky. "It's just a storm."
As the storm outside intensifies, the wind begins to howl like a chorus of lost souls. The first boom of thunder cracks through the air, so loud it feels as if the house itself is groaning in protest. Rebecca jumps, letting out a high-pitched squeak. She grabs the armrest of the chair, her knuckles turning white. Her eyes are wide with fear as the thunder echoes through the house. She looks at me, her eyes pleading for reassurance, and I give her a forced smile. "It's okay, Becca. It's just nature doing its thing."
The room is plunged into an eerie darkness, and the sudden silence feels deafening. The only sounds are the rain's insistent tap-dance on the roof and the occasional crack of thunder that seems to shake the very foundation of the house. Rebecca's hand tightens around mine, her nails digging into my palm. She gasps, her breath coming in short, rapid bursts. The fear in her voice is palpable when she speaks. "Liam, the power's out."
I squeeze her hand back, trying to convey strength and comfort through the simple gesture. The flashlight I grabbed from the hallway casts a faint beam across her face, illuminating the fear etched into her features. The light flickers with the rhythm of the rain outside, creating shadows that dance on the walls. "Don't worry, Becca," I murmur, trying to keep the concern from my voice. "I'm right here. The storm will pass."