Harrington Hills

By CL Beckham

A town full of old secrets, strange disappearances and unexplained deaths. Those who stay continue to pretend everything is normal, those that go always return while the ones who die remain frozen in time. Welcome to Harrington Hills.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jul 25, 2019
• ISBN: 9780359813650

Book preview

Harrington Hills

Harrington Hills

Preface

A loud bang had the two of them jumping and loudly cursing. Michael looked around It was just the wind blowing the back gate he finally continued forward. I can’t believe I let you talk me into this, I said while gripping onto my flashlight tighter and slowly following him up the stairs at 9900 Lakeland Street. Come on baby don’t be scared his voice was slightly shaky which made me smile. Since we were young we always heard stories of the old property that sat behind the lake. All over the town were different stories about the different families that owned the property and quickly sold it again but no one truly knew anything. For a couple of years now some of us noticed lights coming from the house. A few guys from high school had claimed that you could just walk into the house, it was always unlocked. It turned out they were correct, we easily went through the front. These steps are really old, be careful on the last one, Michael said while peeping around the corner. This place would be badass if someone fixed the place up. Yeah if it wasn’t haunted or whatever, I said while feeling a cold chill. At that very moment, every part of my body was telling me to get out of there and I so badly wanted to do exactly that. But Michael was adamant about us winning a stupid bet. Okay we will shack up in the master bedroom he stood in the doorway staring at the only furnished room in the entire house. Somebody had to do this on purpose. It makes no sense for this room to be fully furnished. I think Ray and the others are responsible. I badly wanted to believe that so I could survive the night. Michael smiled at me well if that’s the case, this should be a piece of cake than. He grabbed me and threw me onto the large bed which turned out to be very bouncy. I laughed gleefully and for a little while I didn’t have to think about how many weeks I had left with him. We both were heading to two different states for college and we knew it was ridiculous to try to keep our relationship going. We made a pact to spend the entire summer just enjoying each other and not worrying about our last goodbye. I just didn’t know that spending the night in the neighborhood’s most haunted attraction was part of that summer pact.

We were still heavily breathing from our sex session when the second loud bang happened. Bullshit man Michael shouted while quickly getting dressed. This wasn’t part of the bet assholes! I wanted to say something but all I could do was sit frozen on the bed. Some part of my brain was screaming at me that the noise wasn’t some trick. Michael, wait, don’t go down there. Why the hell not?! he shouted while walking out the room. I got up searching for my clothes and trying to listen to his loud footsteps going down the old stairs. By the time I put my shoes on, everything went quiet. I rushed to the staircase and looked down, that’s when I realized that Michael didn’t grab a flashlight before going down. I quickly retrieved one and ran down the stairs. A weird smell had me choking as I tried to call out Michael? but there was no response. I went towards the large and dark kitchen and through the window over the sink; I could see Michael standing outside. I ran out the back door What are you doing? I asked him once I was standing next to him. From where I was standing, I couldn’t understand what he was looking at. I thought the guys were back here but… he didn’t continue his statement; instead he turned around and went back inside. When we're back upstairs, he stayed very quiet and it made me concerned. What’s wrong? Did you see something? The way he looked at me made me a little uncomfortable so I looked away and remained silent.

At some point, I must have fallen asleep because the next thing I noticed was the bright sunlight shining in my face. The dark curtains that were once hanging, were no longer there and the room was brightly lit up. The decorations were dark in color but everything seemed to be barely used. I looked over and found that I was in bed alone Michael? I searched the bathroom and saw no one. I ran down the stairs panicking for some reason Michael!!! I shouted. I thought of last night and ran through the kitchen to the backdoor. It was already wide open Michael??!!! but he was not there either.  My mind started to go over every detail of the previous night. I’m not sure how much time went by as I circled the backyard multiple times in deep thought. He wouldn’t leave me here, that wasn’t part of their bet. Then I had a second thought, maybe this was part of the bet. I laughed to myself as I went back into the house to get my things. Back in the master bedroom, I noticed Michael’s beat-up Nike shoes on the side of the bed and then I saw his shirt. They went out for this one, I couldn’t wait to tell him off and spend the winnings from the bet alone. I gathered the items and my bag, took one last look around the room before leaving. Maybe I should have looked a little closer but at that moment I had no clue how much my life would become a disaster because of this one night. I didn’t know that night would be the last time anyone would see Michael and I would get the blame.

Chapter 1

I don’t understand why this has to be so difficult. I give you the work and you do the work, that simple. I just don’t get you, people, these days with all the questions and demands. Just shut up and fucking work!

The quiet young lady was burnt red from embarrassment as she scurried back to her desk. Gabrielle ignored the entire scene as she waited for the fiery wrath to be directed to her.

Now you Miss. Gabrielle Umbers has been with us for a while now and I have to say you’re a breath of fresh air. You don’t need the small talk or constant managing. The guys up in New York have gone crazy and thought it was a good idea to open up other offices all over the place and now they want to steal you away. But that’s how business goes, congratulations you have been promoted to district manager. They’ll contact you about your new location, good luck.

It wasn’t like she was expecting some big farewell or something but after working there for 5 years she thought it would be a little bit more of a fuss. A few people put money together and got a cake that said congratulations, but Gabrielle left without getting a slice. No need to be going to a new location with a few extra pounds added to her already wide hips. She was told about the rumor of the promotion months ago and had her apartment packed up ever since. She was over this city, it had gotten too loud and it took too long to get anywhere because of all the awful traffic. She had no lasting relationships or any other good reasons to keep her there so she was ready for a change.

Damn, you’re a lucky bitch! The last time that asshole was giving out promotions; I only made it one floor up and a view of the back alleyway. You go and get a first-class ticket away from this hell hole.

It took Gabrielle a moment to swallow the remainder of her Long Island ice tea without choking before she could respond to the bold mouthed redhead. Amy was the only person to even care about Gabrielle relocating but that was only because she loved anyone or anything that wasn’t from her hometown.

First you’re happily married with a shit load of wonderful family members, I doubt it if you would easily accept a promotion that involves relocating. Second, that rude asshole isn’t the one that promoted me and third warns me before you go shooting your mouth away I rather not choke to death before reaching my next location.

Amy rolled her large green eyes and gave me a smirk. Gabrielle enjoyed having her as a coworker turned acquaintance, Amy could be quite entertaining and that helped her to survive. It’s hard having no true connections but she was adamant about her past staying in the past. That was easily done if no one knew you long enough or gotten close enough to find out that past.

I’m going to miss you by the way. It’s funny because I was just telling Anthony the other night, how little I knew about you, he was curious about your family.

There isn’t much to tell honestly.

You always say that. I remember when I asked you about your time in college, there wasn’t much to tell about that either. Your life couldn’t possibly be that uneventful.

Gabrielle tried to quickly scan her mind for one of the pre-stored responses but kept drawing a blank. Without thinking she let words fall out her mouth.

I lost my family the day they gave up on me. College was difficult because the girls that were once my friends made sure my days were miserable and they did it because they were convinced I deserved it.

Well damn, that’s a lot to tell! Why the fuck would you deserve that type of treatment from a bunch of bitches?!

It’s all in the past now. That’s why I don’t talk about it.

‘I’m sorry Gaby, really I am. My nosy ass needs to learn how to leave things alone but I just want you to know that you’ll always have a friend in me. Don’t think you relocating can stop that."

Gabrielle didn’t expect the amount of emotion that filled her chest and when Amy stood up, she met the other woman halfway for a big hug. It wasn’t until that moment; Gabrielle realized how badly she needed to hear those words from someone that meant it. Thank you I whispered to her softly.

Chapter 2

Harrington Hills was a nice suburban town that looked to be filled with a lot of well-doing and happy families. On the outside looking in of course, but still, it was almost perfect and that depressed most people that only past through, for those that stay soon get a reminder that perfection is a myth. There were many stories of the land itself was cursed or some type of Indian burial ground, every day a different story. Most people in town choose to ignore all the different complaints; they’re even gone far enough to say that people are making everything up. But for those that came from Harington Hills knew the truth and just refuse to speak about it, especially not to strangers. The only thing they all agreed with was, always watch what you ask for and anything that sounds too good maybe no good at all.

The kind elderly couple sat on their porch and watched as the movers carried boxes into the small cottage across the street. When the small four-door car pulled into the newly paved driveway, they saw for the first time a young woman was moving in alone. They looked at each other and shook their heads knowing that the woman wasn’t going to enjoy being in the small cottage alone. No one stayed in the cottage long and no matter how many times it was remodeled, nothing made a difference. Many years ago, someone that refused to let the dead go lived in that cottage and he left behind a lot of residual energy after he disappeared. It took a decade before the property was auctioned off and a local buyer decided to rent out the property. The woman wanted to go warn the younger woman but her husband talked her out of it. It wasn’t their place besides no one knew if all the different people experienced anything, maybe they had too much to drink or something. It didn’t make a difference, in Harrington Hills, there are some things you just don’t talk about.

The cottage was small but perfect for her. Gabrielle had to open all the windows to let the cool breeze help air it out. Harrington Hills was a place she would’ve never heard of if it wasn’t for the promotion. It was small but still had a big city vibe to it and it was full of well off families. She drove by the new office and saw that it was located in a busy part of the town. There were plenty of food options which will make lunch nice and simple. There was a large gated building next door that had no signs but the white building was built quite uniquely which made it stand out. Gabrielle was able to quickly unpack and was happy that her very few items fitted perfectly. It was still early afternoon on a Saturday and wanted to drive around a little more to familiarize herself with the town.  Harington Hills was a beautiful place with a lot of attractive couples. Gabrielle almost got sick by the time she passed another couple showing a lot of PDA. Not to say she didn’t like seeing beautiful happy couples, she just rather seen them in moderation. A cozy-looking bookstore on Main Street got her attention so she found a spot to park in. The smell of hot chocolate and fresh-baked cookies greeted her at the door.

Good afternoon and welcome to Book in the Nook. Can I offer you complimentary refreshments?

The young blonde was bouncy and had the largest smile on her face.

Good afternoon and I’ll love one of those cookies I smell.

The enthusiastic teen led me to a comfortable sitting area, disappeared and quickly returned with a giant hot chocolate chip cookie. It was delicious so she hurriedly ordered another. Gabrielle spent most of the afternoon in a comfortable place.

Are you new in town? Gabrielle jumped in surprise hearing the soft voice from close behind. When she first turned around she saw no one but then looking down to find a short girl with a head full of large curls holding a stack of books.

I’m sorry, did you say something?

I’ve never seen you before.

I just moved here Gabrielle looked around to see who was with the young girl.

Hope you not at that cottage. My mama said that’s where the door is. That must be loud if it keeps opening and closing. I like it quiet so I can read. What are you reading?

The book in Gabrielle’s hand had gone forgotten as she stood listening to the girl. She looked down at the book and frowned. She didn’t remember picking up a ghost book; she hurriedly placed it on the nearest bookshelf.

Traci, are you ready yet? A handsome man with dark hair pulled into a tight ponytail came walking down the aisle while staring down at his mobile phone.

I told you, I have somewhere to be and not to take all day. He finally looked up to notice me standing there. Hello

Hello Gabrielle turned around and walked away without saying anything else. She could hear him quizzing the girl about herself. Gabrielle thanked the joyful teenager and quickly exited the bookstore.

Later that night, Gabrielle found herself thinking of the young girl's words but then convinced herself that she was being stupid. She wanted nothing to do with any stupid ghost stories or whatever. It was all bullshit. It was real things happening in the world that were much scarier than a bunch of stories. She could feel the familiar dark cloud beginning to fill her mind. She hurriedly found her alcohol stash and took a few shots. Gabrielle couldn’t go there, not now, not ever again. Enough damage has been done; she couldn’t survive any more self-damage or self-punishment. Everyone she once knew and loved did that for her already but she pulled herself together despite that. The past is the past. The past is the past. A mantra she learned to repeat often over the years.

She knew what her eyes were seeing couldn’t be real but she still walked into the house. Gabriella Gabriella Only one person sang her name as if it was a song. No one else said her name in such away. She ignored it and walked to the back door. Gabrielle wasn’t sure what she was expecting but seeing Michael standing in the backyard made her collapse. When he turned to look at her, his eyes were a frosty white and then he screamed, loud.  She woke up to find herself screaming on the floor. Gabrielle ran to the bathroom to splash cold water onto her face. It had been a while since she had any dreams about that night but this one was different. The fear she felt was real, too real. Once again, she found herself seeking out more alcohol but a sound from the front room made her pause. She stayed frozen in one spot and waited to see if she would hear it again. A slight sound of music could be heard but she wasn’t sure where it was coming from. Slowly, she made her way towards the living room and the music seemed to fade away. After some time went by without hearing anything else she decided to just go back to bed. The next morning while making coffee, she noticed the small backyard garden had blossomed overnight. She went outside to expect colorful flowers. She had never been one to know much about gardening but the flowers seemed quite exotic to her. The colors were bright and vivid. The dark blue almost purple ones were her favorite. She carefully picked one out to take into the house. While looking for something to put the flower in, a knock on the door surprised her. It was a Sunday morning and there was no one she knew that would come and visit.

Good Morning an older woman greeted Gabrielle when she opened the door. Good Morning it must have been obvious that her visit was curious because her smile got a little smaller and she quickly apologized. I do apologize for the early morning visit. My husband told me not to but I just never listen. Her warm southern accent reminded me of one my grandmothers and that warmed me up and in return, I apologized. No mam there’s no problem Gabrielle stepped back to allow the elder woman inside Please come in but the woman never took one step. I won’t intrude I just wanted to welcome you before the work week got started and give you some fresh biscuits and jam that everyone in Harrington Hills knows me for. She handed Gabrielle an old fashion picnic basket and was quickly crossing the street by the time the door closed. Gabrielle decided not to think too much about that but she did enjoy the fresh biscuits and jam.

Chapter 3

I fucking hate this place. I still believe you drugged me the night I agreed to this. I promised myself I would never look at this place again but here I am. Symone took a long and exaggerated pull of her cigarette while glaring at her looking at her older brother by 10 minutes. He was the only person in the world she would die for but right about now she wanted to murder him.

Don’t be so dramatic besides a small part of you have to love seeing this place looking like this.

The two walked around the grounds of what was once known as Harrington Manor. It was once a popular ranch in the mid-1800s, during visits people fell in love with the area and soon after the town of Harrington Hills was established. The town was the perfect place to bring your old family money and build up magnificent homes. Many people didn’t know much about the Harrington’s, it was said the family was once two separate ones that were joined through marriage. The earlier generation of the family was said to be Irish but that was speculation. The town may carry the name but when it came to the actual family, there wasn’t much to tell.

You’re right brother, I do believe seeing the precious manor damn near in ruins is very satisfying.

If he would’ve left everything the way it was this place wouldn’t be this way.

Let’s not talk about daddy dearest, please. Bringing me here is one thing but discussing old shit will be the place I draw a thick ass line, Samuel.

Sorry, I was just thinking out loud.

The two stopped at the same time when they arrived at the back of the property. The tall black fence with the strange symbols still stood taller than the two of them.

Damn, it is taller than I remember Samuel walked up closer to the gate looking for the cobra door handle. Symone stepped back to light another cigarette nervously. It took a few more minutes to locate the handle. With a couple of loud grunts and a lot of heavy pushing, finally, the door came open just enough for them to squeeze through. Samuel started forward but Symone remained frozen to the ground. She inhaled loudly as if the nicotine was the oxygen that she needed badly. When she could no longer see or hear her brother, she finally squeezed through the door. Nothing about the backyard made sense. There were a neatly trimmed yard and perfectly lined hedges. Symone came to stand net to Samuel as they both saw what didn’t add up.

Why it’s so pristine back here and everywhere else look like shit.

Maybe the wicked stepmother is secretly still around or something. She loved that damn pool.

I told you that’s why the property has been given to us. Legally I believe her family has considered her deceased.

Well thank goodness for the small gifts Symone wickedly laughed as her brother gave her a stern look.

Don’t be evil Symone. That type of shit comes back.

Holy hell you sound like Aunt Gwyn saying that.

It’s true I’ve seen it.

Samuel walked away towards the pool house. The one place that haunts their nightmares sat there looking harmless and unexpected. For Symone it was the noises they heard that night that sticks with her and for Samuel, it was the unknown that constantly haunted him. After that night their lives changed and a few months later their father remarried which made things even worse.

It still looks the same.

Yeah Symone went to a window to peep inside and all she saw were lots of boxes. I guess it was being used for storage. She looked back at Samuel