Echoes of the Game

By Melissa Mercer

Some of the occurrences within this story actually took place. This fast paced paranormal thriller was written from pure inspiration, and based off of some real life events. Therefore, mixed with a little good old fashioned fictionalized imagination; I present you with a terrifying tale unlike any other.

When best friends Renee and Nikki make the decision to play with a Ouija board at a young age, they are completely unaware that they have actually opened a gateway between two worlds; and a powerful entity wreaks havoc upon them both. This sadistic phenomenon follows the two girls, even when life lands them far apart from one another, though it prefers them together; and it will go to petrifying lengths to make that happen.

This terrifying paranormal thriller, full of heart throbbing twists and turns; will leave you wondering what is going to happen next and just when you think it couldn’t possibly get more intense. Things pick up pace, leading you down an eerie journey, sure to leave you too horrified to lay the book down. Get ready, for this entity is relentless!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Melissa Mercer
• Release date: Aug 31, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301543984

Melissa Mercer

Melissa Mercer is a passionate individual, both in her work and her family life as well. She is happily married to her hero and they have a beautiful daughter together. He is an old soul at heart; creating visual art through her words.Melissa's belief is the pen has always been mightier than the sword and just like the books we bind together; the words of the world will help bind us all with love and compassion.Whenever she isn't working, Melissa enjoys spending time with her daughter and loving husband. Melissa involves her family in all of her writing projects. Her husband helps take the pictures for her covers and her daughter is not only on the cover of her Novel, A Path of Survival, but on several short story covers she has designed as well. Having the support of her family and being able to share something with them that she is so passionate about; brings her a great deal of joy and a sense of accomplishment as well.Melissa has written several short stories that been published in magazine's such as Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine and having won the Editor's Choice Award by the International Library of Poetry in both 2006 and 2011 for her outstanding achievement in poetry. Writing is one of the most important aspects in Melissa's life and she also works as a Freelance Writer from home. Her experiences include online advertising, article writing, magazine features, book inserts and ghostwriting. You name it, she writes about it.She also holds a degree in Social Services and Creative Writing. She worked as an advocate against domestic violence, volunteering her time at a local shelter in her area; in-order to help those in need of a little hope and perhaps some guidance as well. Melissa is a strong survivor, but she knows all too well how much it takes to get there and she wants to be that one person in someone else's life that was never there in hers. She also worked as a Social Worker for The Child Abuse Council. Melissa loves children and wants to show them that there really is good in the world regardless of the bad they have already seen at such a young age.By Melissa seeing her words in print, she is actually living her dream and she would love to take this opportunity to thank you all in helping her make her dreams become a reality. Look for more upcoming stories from this strong willed and spirited author. She truly appreciates all of you that help support the dream she has spent a lifetime trying to achieve.

Book preview

Echoes Of The Game

Published by:Melissa Mercer at Smashwords Copyright © 2013 Melissa Mercer

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Smashwords Edition, License Notes:

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold.If you would like to share this book with another person, please do. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

DEDICATIONS

I would love to dedicate this book to my best friend. This book was written out of pure inspiration. She and I have been friends since childhood, and some of the occurrences within this book, actually happened, but regardless of the terrifying, emotional and much too often craziness that goes on within our friendship; she and I have battled through it all. Thank you for the love, the bond and the friendship Michelle, the absence of blood, doesn’t mean we aren’t sisters, I love ya!

I would also like to thank her daughter Nicole, she is also on the cover of this book, along with my daughter and through them; our friendship has been reborn. And I can’t thank the rest of them without also thanking Michelle’s husband James, whom I have known since I was eleven years old. He is like a brother to me, and I love him dearly. And to her son James the third, I would also like to say thank you. Through our quirky and comical arguments, you still keep me smiling. I love you all, the only family anyone really needs.

And to my wonderful husband who supports my goals and my dreams; without you baby it wouldn’t be possible. You are my heart, my hope, my inspiration, and I love you with all that I am.

I would also like to thank my beautiful daughter as well for her continued support, love and affection. You are my life line and I am proud to be your mother. I love you so much.

And to all of you who help support my dreams as well by purchasing my books I could never say thank you enough.

Table of Contents

Dedications

Introduction

Chapter One: The Opening of the Gate

Chapter Two: Life Happened

Chapter Three: Nikki’s Visit Takes a Turn for the Worse

Chapter Four: Looks like You’ve Seen a Ghost

Chapter Five: Let the Games Begin

Chapter Six: Margery Shows Her Face

Chapter Seven: Renee Dwells within a House That Does Not Exist

Chapter Eight: We Have to Hide

Chapter Nine: Margery Makes Her Confession

Chapter Ten: Burning the Links that Bind

About the Author

INTRODUCTION

When best friends Renee and Nikki make the decision to play with a Ouija board at a young age. They are completely unaware that they have actually opened a gateway between two worlds; and a powerful entity wreaks havoc upon them both. This sadistic phenomenon follows the two girls, even when life lands them far apart from one another, though it prefers them together; and it will go to petrifying lengths to make that happen.

This terrifying paranormal thriller, full of heart throbbing twists and turns; will leave you wondering what is going to happen next and just when you think it couldn’t possibly get more intense. Things pick up pace, leading you down an eerie journey, sure to leave you too horrified to lay the book down. Get ready, for this entity is relentless!

Chapter One: The Opening of the Gate

Nikki and Renee were the best of friends, having met at such an early age. Nikki was from the wrong part of town and didn’t have the best surroundings; being introduced to Renee when she was only nine years old was exactly what she needed at the time. She can recall the very day that happened.

It was a bright summer day in Northern California and her dad had just gotten off of work. Nikki spent most of her time at her grandparent’s home and she was shocked when her dad arrived early that day. Though, she didn’t dare complain. It wasn’t often that she spent time with either of her parents, so she was more than happy to accompany him.

When she got into the truck, she noticed that they were not headed home. Therefore, she asked her father.

Where are we going dad?

We are going to look at a new home. My boss has just finished remodeling a place he bought, and has offered it to me at a great price. I thought we could go check it out. Her father replied.

Nikki began to smile, thinking that she would no longer live in fear, from dwelling within the heart of such a corrupted town.

She thought her eyes must be playing tricks on her when they pulled down the driveway of a very luxurious home. And indeed they were. Her father then told her it was his boss’s home after all. Still, she was mesmerized by the mere site of it.

When they got out of the truck, she witnessed a new face. A very friendly and pretty one as well. Nikki was shy at that age and didn’t speak, but luckily for her; Renee wasn’t shy at all and introduced herself before inviting her inside.

The two of them hit it off from the start. Renee simply didn’t give her the option of being bashful. Really, she opened up a whole new world for Nikki and for once; she began to experience what living was all about.

Nikki’s parents purchased the home offered by Renee’s family. Finally Nikki wasn’t going to be surrounded by the sounds of gunfire and police sirens, and as an added bonus. Her new home was only a half of a mile down the street from Renee. The two of them couldn’t be more different. Renee was tall and heavier built with long straight blonde hair and blue eyes. Nikki was always the shortest one in the bunch, having a petite physique covered with long curly red locks and hazel eyes, which seemed to change depending on her mood. Their differences were what brought out the best in one another and ultimately made their bond unbreakable.

Renee was three years older than Nikki and she was always envious of the relationship Renee and her family shared. Her dad, wasn’t her biological father at all, but no one would ever guess it. He worked hard to provide Renee with the best money could buy, while also giving her what no amount of money could ever replace; his love and affection. Both of Nikki’s parents were by blood, and it seemed that blood ran cold, for although they didn’t have much money. All she ever wanted was their love and affection, which would have been enough for her.

Like any other friendship or relationship for that matter, theirs was put to the test many times, but the end result was always the same. They loved one another deeply and their friendship passed every test that was thrown their way.

As the years went by, many friends were added to their dynamic duo and Nikki recalls one event in particular that really opened this friendship up to a whole new world. One that would remain with them for many years to come.

It was during summer vacation. Renee and Nikki just finished an afternoon of swimming at one of their favorite hangout spots.

A boy from the neighborhood John showed up with an odd looking board in his hands. It seemed he and Renee were really starting to like each other and she was all smiles when she noticed him approaching Nikki’s front porch. Nikki just rolled her eyes. For, all she has heard since he started coming around was how impressive he was. She didn’t get it at all, but she also liked John just not in the same way obviously. She was curious about the board he was carrying though and finally asked.

Um…John, what is that thing you’re holding?

This is a Ouija board. My Uncle was going to throw it away today. I asked him if I could have it. It took some persuading but he finally caved in. He just told me to make sure and keep it far away from his house. I don’t see what the big deal is. John replied.

Renee and Nikki both looked at each other in confusion, neither of them had ever heard of one before. That’s when Renee spoke up.

What do you do with it? She asked.

You ask it questions. He answered.

You ask a board questions? Nikki said with a hint of laughter.

Well…yeah. I mean, not just the board. They say that you can communicate with the dead through this board. That you can ask questions and if there is someone who has passed away present, then they can answer you by spelling out their answer. John explained.

That is awesome! Renee replied with excitement.

Although Nikki was a bit skeptical and couldn’t help but smirk. She detected the aggravated expressions the two of them had when she said.

"Look, I’m sorry. I just don’t see how a wooden board can be used as a gateway between the living and those who have passed on. It just seems a little silly to me, but just to prove that I am right and to stop those dirty looks you two are giving