Maddie Ann's Playground: The Playground series, #1

By Mackenzie Drew

What would you do if you found yourself trapped in a cemetery on Halloween night, faced with the evil of the century? Maddie Ann's Playground takes the reader from the streets of Old Creek, Wisconsin, to a hellish world deep within the old cemetery. It began as a deadly secret, turned into a dark legend, then eventually a fairytale told by the locals. Now, after two hundred years in silence, Old Creek cemetery awakens once more. But this time, the wicked doesn't only want blood, it needs young souls and Jennifer Cravens and Claire Barton are it. 

On Halloween night, Jennifer agrees to go to Old creek cemetery with Claire on one condition; they are to stay long enough to scare their friends and to see if the legend carries the truth or is bogus. But when the girls arrive, Jennifer backs out and stays inside the car. What she doesn't expect to happen: coming face to face with a demon and having to enter the graveyard to fight to save her friends from the pits of hell.

After witnessing two friends being slaughtered by a vicious fiend, Jennifer is cast out of the graveyard with no memory of what happened. Stumbling through the woods to find civilization, she's able to make it home, but instead of finding comfort, her biggest nightmare has just begun. Her mind has become a human dream portal for the devilish child, Maddie Ann.

Jennifer must seek the truth before she becomes the main suspect of her friends demise, and the real killer slips away forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mackenzie Drew
• Release date: Aug 4, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201867188

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

~" Lord, protect me from my friends, I can take care of my enemies." ~ Voltaire, 1694-1778

Claire Barton heard what the elders said about Old Creek cemetery. Keep far away from that place. The devil lives there and he will kill you. Was the old legend nonsense or did the town folk know the truth behind it? She had to give it deep consideration before she included her friends in her Halloween night escapade. Surely, she did not believe the legend. She laughed at unrealistic tales. Ghosts, witches, and demons did not cross her mind. She had fire in her belly, a high-spirited individual, who craved cheap thrills. As she thought more about it, she did, agree to do this to get a date with Mitch Styles. He told her she could have him if she spent the night with the dead. She wanted this guy since the second grade and now that he offered himself to her, she wasn’t about to turn him down. She reasoned with herself that it was just a cemetery and things like that didn't really happen.

While that thought stirred through her mind, she rushed to her locker to grab her books and waited on her friends to get out of class. With time to spare, she caught a glimpse of Mitch. Captain of the football team for Emerson High, he looked so desirable in his letterman’s jacket. She lusted over his hazel eyes that complemented the wavy blond hair that snuggled his ears. His smile, the famous smile she dreamt of often, revealed deep dimples in his cheeks. She wondered what her life would be like if she had him for herself. Her mind digressed from her surroundings, and she jumped when Jennifer tapped her on the shoulder.

Whatcha doin’? Jennifer shoved her books in the back of her locker and slammed the door shut.

Claire sighed. Waiting for you guys to show up. Why?

I saw you looking at him. Please tell me you’re not considering asking him out. You know how much I despise him, Jennifer said.

Claire huffed, rolling her eyes. Why do you hate him so much? I mean, my Gawd, Jen, look at him. She almost drooled as she fantasized being in his arms.

Let’s not talk about Mitch. We have plenty of time to discuss your love life, but right now, we need to find the other girls and hurry to the park.

Claire snatched her bag from the bottom of her locker and followed Jennifer out to the parking lot. Before getting in her car, Claire caught one last glimpse of Mitch. She watched as he climbed into his red Suburban with his loud friends. She couldn’t take her mind off this guy. His looks and spunkiness revved her hormones to overdrive. Perhaps she yearned for his popularity. Whatever caused the attraction, it made her mad with lovesickness. Is everybody ready? Claire asked. She wanted to flee before the traffic became murder.

As ready as I’m gonna be, Lisa said. She squirmed between the girls.

Good, because we have a party to plan, Claire added.

As they pulled out of the school parking lot, she cranked up the music as they drove toward the city park.

You know girls, we’re bad. I mean, think about it for a sec. I believe we have the trashiest mouths out of the rest of the girls at school. I dunno why we do things we’re not supposed to, Jennifer wondered. She eyed her friends in the backseat with a guilty look.

Hey, Cravens, speak for yourself. I know my mouth isn’t as venomous as yours. Just ask anyone, Kari retorted laughing.

Come on you guys, it’s fine if we’re different. That’s what makes us so unique. I prefer unique, Claire added.

The Wisconsin fields rolled past the joyful group in the convertible like flying carpets of green. The smooth hum of the powerful Ford engine alone prevented silence as the miles flew by. Claire pulled into the park at a speed far too fast and hit a speed bump that raked across the bottom of the car. To her dismay, she noticed a police car parked up the way prompting her to sink in her seat. Crap, I hope the police didn’t see what I just did, she said trying to see up over the dashboard.

If you don’t watch where the heck you’re going, that will be the least of your worries, Kari intervened.

Claire sat back up in the seat and parked by a sheltered, wooded area to hide the car. After catching her breath from the scare, the girls piled out and made a mad dash around the lake and straight up the dirt path to The Rock. Off to the side facing a vast open field, sat a huge boulder where the girls shared their secrets and dreams. The last one up is a rotten egg, Liz shouted down to the girls below her. She didn’t say much, but when she did, it was usually because the girls ignored her.

Oh puleezzzze, as if we still fall for that crap. We're not ten anymore, Kari said as she scrambled up The Rock.

Liz’s smile faded. Claire knew she hated Kari’s smart attitude because it always spoiled the moment. Her miniskirt hiked up her thighs as her feet took hold. Kari went up behind her. She snagged the hem of her hoodie on a sharp piece of rock, leaving a hole in it. Geez, my mom just bought me this, she complained.

Come on girls, quit your whining, Claire said. We don’t have much daylight left, so let’s use it wisely.

Does anyone have any new ideas for the Halloween party, or should we throw another lame bash like last year? Jennifer asked. If it were me who had to decide, I’d say we should do something daring. She looked straight into Claire’s surprised eyes and grinned.

Gee, Jen, I don’t know; would you like to plan this yourself? I’ll arrange it and that way; I don’t have to worry. Shoot, I’ll sit on my butt and watch you do it all. Claire crossed her arms and gritted her teeth, her hair falling in her eyes as she glared at Jen.

Lisa broke the tension between Claire and Jennifer before they said something they’d regret. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on her designer jeans. She batted her eyes as if to be funny and said, Since we want to do something different, I say we invite some college guys like we wanted to do last year but didn’t.

Claire shook her head. Annoyance coursed through her.

What’s wrong with inviting an older crowd to hang out with? Lisa asked, crinkling her nose.

Hold on. You know my mom will not allow college guys to the party, so why even bring it up, Claire replied, certain of herself.

Jennifer shifted her gaze toward the others, and said, These ideas sound corny. Claire, you’ve got to admit that. I say we do something we’ve never tried.

Claire looked into Jennifer's scheming brown eyes and threw a thick lock of blonde hair over one shoulder. She leaned back away from the others, shook her head, and zipped her lips. Jennifer took the hint to shut her mouth.

Wait a minute, what’s wrong with the way we’ve always done it? Tina asked. I like things simple, and I can't figure out what’s the big deal.

Because it’s boring, Kari added. We do the same crap every year. We dress up, eat until we’re so fat we can’t breathe, dance with the same nerds that we’ve danced with year after year, and have nightmares from regret.

Claire decided she knew best. She’d throw the party however she saw fit, and if her friends didn’t like it, they didn’t have to come.

THE SUN STARTED TO set behind the woods across the field. Jennifer scooted to the edge of the rock, dropped her purse to the ground and climbed down. As she reached the bottom, Claire nudged her aside letting the other girls go ahead. You just about blew it. Try to keep your mouth shut next time, she said and walked off.

Jennifer grimaced from Claire’s insult, needing to be alone to think about stuff that bothered her. In the distance, she watched her friends gather in the car while she stopped to look in the lake. She gazed around her surroundings and saw an old rowboat tied to a long pier that swayed back and forth in the water. Moving a little closer to take a better look, a glassy film skimmed the top of the water and displayed the waning colors of the sunset. As she took in its beauty, she heard a gentleman’s voice as it called to her. I’m over here, Jennifer. Come to the water so you can see me, he said.

Fear raced through her heart. Her throat tightened. Who said that?

I need to see you, my love.

She did not want to do this. Why did he need her and why the urgency? Who are you, she shouted. Why do you want me to look at your face? She inched her way towards the demanding voice.

Just as she knelt close to the water, a rotten muck stench wafted into her nostrils. She covered her nose and fell back on her hand. Oh God, she mumbled and then raised up to look back into the water.

The wavy reflection of her face vanished, and she saw a beastly man with dark black eyes, jet-black hair, and a disturbing grin reach for her. You belong to me, Jennifer, the fiend whispered. I will take you back...someday soon, and then we can live together again in our beautiful mansion. It’s our destiny, my beautiful.

Jennifer shook her head in denial. Tears rained down her face. She tried to speak, but nothing came out. Her gaze fixed on the unreal man in the water.

Why must you torture yourself in such a way? The more you fight it, the worse the situation becomes for you. Now relax and let me do what I’ve come to do, he said softly.

As his arms reached further out of the water, Jennifer recoiled. Her heart slammed against her rib cage. She balled her fists and a sudden wind emerged from her lungs. Noooooooo.... She fell to the wet earth as her body weakened. Oh God, please help me, she sobbed. Make it go away.

The man rose from the water and walked toward her. He reached down and lifted her to stand on wobbly legs. I demand you listen to me Jennifer. I’m your husband, K....

Jennifer, my Gawd, what’s going on down here? Claire grabbed her from behind and embraced her. I heard you screaming from the car. What happened?

Jennifer pulled away and watched the spirit fade into the mist that hovered over the water. She placed her hands on her face and cried. I don’t want to talk about it. Just get me out of this place, she said.

Claire lowered Jennifer’s hands. Your eyes are all red and puffy. Why are you crying? We’re not going anywhere until you tell me what happened to you.

A man came out of the water after me. Now get me the heck out of here before he comes back, she yelled.

Claire shook her head and helped Jennifer up the path to the car. When they got in to leave, she placed her hand on Jennifer’s arm, and said, We will talk about this later, so try to calm down, okay.

Jennifer saw the sincerity in her friend’s eyes. She meant well, but it did not ease the pain she caused her. Here lately, Jennifer noticed Claire’s frequent mood swings and how she snapped at her for any little thing she did. Was Mitch the instigator who influenced her attitude change or did she do this unintentionally? Not only did Jennifer question her and Claire’s friendship, but she also wasn’t sure about spending the night in an old, abandoned hospital. The idea felt all wrong. Who in their right mind would sleep where people have died? Freaks came to mind, those who worshiped the dark side, and she was far from being strange. Doing as Claire suggested, she slumped down in the seat to relax, but the encounter with the strange man from the lake still frightened her.

Before she got comfortable, Claire pulled into a gas station to let the girls off. See you all tomorrow, Claire said waiting for them to pile out. Make sure you bring a change of clothes and a sleeping bag.

The girls waved as they drove off leaving them in a convenient store parking lot.

The car became silent. Jennifer stared out the window.

I didn’t mean to be so straightforward, but I’ve been under a lot of stress, and I haven’t had time to resolve my problems, Claire said. I hope you’ll forgive my insensitive attitude.

Jennifer patted her on the arm. I’ll live Claire. I take things the wrong way instead of trying to understand, and you’re right, I do have a problem keeping my mouth shut.

Claire looked as though she wanted to add something but held her tongue.

JENNIFER LOOKED AT the unfamiliar road. Claire, where are you going? I thought we agreed to check out the abandoned hospital.

I know but I wanted you to see this place first. I think you’ll like it better. It’s the old cemetery at the edge of town. You know...the one about the legend.

No, I guess I never paid any attention to the town’s old stories. So, what about it? Jennifer asked putting her hair up in a ponytail.

You remember the Watson family that buried their dead in that graveyard. You know how creepy they are.

Oh, yes, I remember.

Well, according to legend, no one goes out there anymore. Some of the people even said they saw ghosts in that cemetery.

I don’t have a good feeling about this, Claire.

Come on, let’s just go take a look, scaredy-cat, Claire said and pulled into a convenience store. You wanna grab some chips and a soda?

I’d like a Coke if you’re buying.

Claire smiled and got out of the car.

The harvest moon sat deep in the night sky bathing the underbrush in its amber glow. Jennifer got comfortable in the front seat of Claire’s car, gazing out at the shadows mingling among the cornfields in front of her. As her eyes set in a fixed glassy stare, she noticed a shabby farmhouse behind the gas station that sat up on a hill surrounded by shriveled trees. What she could see of it, the aged porch leaned to one side and a dim light burned inside the downstairs window close to the front door. Chills crept up her spine by the looks of the old place. Her imagination ran amok. She heard crackling sounds from the dried cornhusks as they swayed in the wind, and each time they crackled, she blinked and huddled further down in the seat. This time, fear affected her differently as a child’s laughter chimed overhead. She shivered. Gooseflesh rose to the tip of her spine and spread up into her face. Her teeth chattered and as the fright coursed through her, she muttered, For the love of God Claire, hurry! This place gives me the creeps.

Jennifer’s mind went into a deep place as she thought about the cemetery. A sudden rap on the driver side window startled her. The minute she rolled down the window, a musky stench wafted in her face. A girl stood outside the car wearing a beige gauze dress that hung loose around her ankles, and she had on old leather laced up boots. Her long brown hair hung in matted braids, and dirty rings covered her neck. The word 'homeless' came into Jen's mind. Where did she come from?

Jennifer Cravens...?

As a scream stuck in her throat, Jennifer asked, Who...who are you?

I’m Maddie Ann’s cousin, Alisa Kay. Stay away from the cemetery! I’ve come to warn you; you’re all going to die.

Jennifer chuckled, not believing her for a minute, and slid over to the driver’s side, sarcasm in her voice. Did someone put you up to this? Let me guess, Claire, right?

Please, listen to me, I don’t have much time. They know you’re coming, and they want to kill you, just like they did....

Jennifer interrupted. Just stop. I don’t understand any of this. For that matter, I don’t even know you. Get away from the car. I have no money to give you. She started to withdraw from the window.

Alisa held out her hands in a pleading gesture and stepped closer to the car. A single tear rolled down her pale face. Don’t go to the graveyard....

Without warning, out of nowhere, huge hands reached from behind the drifter and pulled Alisa into black rolling fog. The girl’s body evaporated and ascended with the fog into a blood-red cloud above the gas station. Jennifer jumped out of the car screaming. Oh my God...oh my God, Claire!

Coming out of the store, Claire saw Jennifer in a panic and ran toward’s her. She tossed the bag of cokes and chips inside the vehicle on the driver’s seat and helped Jennifer back inside the car. What happened? What’s wrong?

Claire, we can't go to the cemetery. This girl...this girl came to warn us not to go. She said if we do someone will kill us!

What girl? Claire asked looking around.

She vanished, Jennifer whispered with trembling lips. Her eyes widened as she gazed up at the inky sky, ...disappeared in a fog.

Claire pulled the car onto the road, cutting the wheels hard, and took off. Listen, sweetie, I can assure you, you imagined this, she said and squeezed Jennifer’s hand.

Jennifer shook her head and stared out the window. No, I saw her. She said her name was Alisa Kay and she rattled off another name...Maddie Ann, I think. Then something or someone pulled her into a fog. Claire, please believe me. I know what I saw, dang it and I’m not going to that cemetery.

Claire gave her a peculiar look and turned up the volume on the radio. Jennifer sighed, laid her head back on the seat, and closed her eyes. A few minutes later, Claire turned off the black top and onto a dirt road slowing her speed. She turned on the high beams, and kept her eyes peeled for the Old Creek cemetery. It sat a few miles down and off to the left of the gravel road. She pulled the car over on a small patch of grass.

Jennifer opened her eyes. Where are we, Claire? she asked and yawned. She lifted her head and saw the cemetery gates. What the heck are we doing here? She screamed and grabbed Claire by the arm. This is insane. You’re gonna get us killed!

Claire shook her off, opened the glove box, and grabbed two flashlights handing one to her. Come on, Jen, or you’re going to spoil everything, she retorted, opening her door. This place is much better than anywhere in Old Creek. Wait until you see it. It’s awesome; especially around this time of year. Claire’s voice then grew deep and mysterious. Halloween is when the wicked come out to play. It haunts the grounds in that graveyard. It moans as if it were in pain. Ghosts rise from the cold stiff ground. I’ve heard you can see them at the stroke of midnight trying to pry their way through the gates.

I told you, I’m not going near that place. It’s dangerous!

Well, I guess I’ll just have to go alone.

Claire, don’t, Jennifer said and slammed out of the car to follow. Tears rained down her chilled face. The harder Jennifer yanked on Claire’s arm; the harder Claire pulled. I can’t do this...please...don’t make me do this.

Relax, will ya? We’re just here to check it out. After all, you wanted to go someplace exciting and scary. Well, you can’t get any scarier than this.

Tall, brittle trees with finger-like branches reached for the onyx sky as Jennifer stood in the middle of an overgrown path that led up a gentle slope. As Claire dragged Jennifer up the crest of the hill, a chilly wind whirled. Wrought iron gates loomed before her. I’m not going another step. We shouldn’t be here, Jennifer said.

She turned to run, but Claire grabbed the back of her jacket. Come on Jen, how could you not like this place? Claire whined. Besides, you shouldn’t fear the dead. It’s the living that can hurt you.

Jennifer raised the flashlight into Claire’s eyes and leaned into her. Listen to me; I agreed to scare the girls, but I refuse to go into a place where the devil lives, she said."

Claire let out a short, nervous laugh, and then nudged her playfully. Do you believe that nonsense? Come on Jen, people make up crap all the time just to keep kids away from places they don’t want them trashing. Chill out, nothing will happen.

Jennifer lowered the light and choked back tears. What are we gonna do if what that girl said comes true? We don’t know anything about the supernatural world.

Jennifer glared at Claire with a scowl on her face, watching her stifle a grin. Do you honestly think I’d take you someplace I thought would get you killed? Get real, Claire said.

Jennifer saw the determination on her friend’s face and wondered about the real reason behind Claire’s intent to enter that cemetery. She suspected Mitch Styles had something to do with it.

CHAPTER 2

Claire staggered into the kitchen and grabbed a piece of toast.

Well good morning, honey, Barb said and slapped her on the butt with a newspaper.

Hi, Mom. Whatcha doing? Claire said as she poured milk on her Frosted Flakes.

Just checking the grocery ads. Barb took a sip of coffee. Hey, are you and your friends ready for the party tomorrow night?

Yeah, close, but I still need to pick up a few items.

Try to get back in time to clean your room, will ya? It’s a mess.

Fine, she said and wiped the breadcrumbs off the table. You got any spare cash, Mommy? We have stuff to get for the party.

Barb rolled her eyes. I just love the way ‘Mommy’ comes out when you want something.

Claire grinned at her. Well, what can I say? I inherited my mother’s charm.

You inherited your father’s silver tongue, Barb said and opened her purse, handing her fifty dollars.

Claire took the money and hugged her mom. As she started for her room, the garage door opened, and her dad rushed through the house with a rag wrapped around his hand. Daddy...what happened? she shouted, following him to the kitchen. Claire’s father ran a carpentry business from his garage, making beautiful custom-built furniture.

Oh, that stupid blade caught my hand when I cut a slat for that dang bed. I’ll be fine, it’s just a little cut, he said putting his bloody hand over the sink.

Barb rose from the chair and rushed over to look. Mike, honey, that’s a deep cut. I think you’re gonna need some stitches.

He ran the cool water over it and pinched the skin together. Go get me the superglue from the desk. The doc said it works better than stitches.

Claire hurried into the den, snatched the glue from the drawer, and raced back to the sink. Here, let me wipe it dry and I’ll put it on the cut, she said taking a clean dishtowel from the counter. There, now it’ll be fine.

Mike kissed her on the cheek and held the cut together to dry. Thanks, sweetie.

Barb reached over to help. Why don’t you leave the bed alone until later and I’ll make you some breakfast, she said pitching the bloody rag into the utility room.

No, I have to finish it by noon. Carl’s stopping by to pick it up and if I put it off, I’ll be behind.

Claire stood back and listened to her parents. She chuckled and darted up the stairs to get ready.

ON THE WAY TO PICK up Jennifer, Claire stopped at a 7-11 to grab something to drink. As she stepped past the line at the register, she saw Chelsea Hall standing at the self-serve fountain filling a cup with cappuccino.

Hey, Claire, she said looking down the aisle behind her. Where are your girlfriends?

Claire tried to ignore her.

I mean, it’s so unusual seeing you without your gang glued to your hip.

Claire scooped ice into her cup and started to fill it with Coke. What’s it to you, Chelsea? Just mind your own business, she said as she pressed a lid on her cup.

Excuse me for asking, blabbermouth.

Claire smiled at her. I’d rather be a blabbermouth than a floozy, she said, smiling sweetly.

Chelsea flipped her off and flounced away.

Warm lips pressed against Claire’s ear, and she jumped. Tomorrow night’s the big night, Claire.

Butterflies filled her stomach and her heart pounded against her chest as she slowly turned around to face Mitch Styles. Hi, Mitch.

Hello yourself. So, you ready to prove what a wild crazy young woman you are, he said slipping his arm around her waist.

A warm feeling coursed through her as it did every time, she seen him. All set, she said.

When you enter the cemetery, remember to pay close attention to your surroundings, because it’s not like any place you’ve ever seen, he said and nuzzled her neck. Be careful, Claire, or you may not come out alive.

You’re not scaring me, Mitch. I’m not a little kid, I’m a full-grown woman, she whispered looking at him through her eyelashes.

When his hand brushed against her arm, a chill went through her. Yeah, a full-grown woman, he said and kissed her on the cheek. I’ll be waiting for you after the others leave. We have lovin’ to catch up on, sweet Claire.

He sauntered away and she took a deep breath, wishing that cemetery stunt already happened. Heading toward the door to leave, Claire saw Chelsea walk over to Mitch, put her arm around his waist, and run her painted nails over his chest. She ran out the door to her car and examined her short nails. Slut, she thought and gunned the car out of the parking lot.

CLAIRE PULLED UP IN Jennifer’s driveway with a smile on her face. Thinking about Mitch always made her smile and even Chelsea couldn’t ruin the moment. She planned to replace that hussy and have him for herself no matter what she had to do. Just as she opened the car door to get out, Jennifer raced out of the house and jumped in beside her.

Hey girl, you said you’d be here like fifteen minutes ago. What took you so long? she asked, putting on her seat belt.

Let’s see. Right before I walked out the door, my dad cut his hand on his saw blade, so I had to help him. Then after I left the house, I stopped by and picked up a soda. Why, you have a date?

No, but Rodney isn’t gonna wait for us forever. Now, are you sure you want to go through with this and get your nose pierced? Does your mom even know you’re doing this? Jennifer asked, watching out the window.

Heck no, she’d kill me. What she doesn’t know won’t hurt me. Let’s just keep this between us.

The tattoo parlor sat on the corner of Wrigley and Melton Avenue. Claire spotted the parking lot and pulled in determined to have it done.

Jennifer grabbed her purse. Are you absolutely sure?

Yeah, why not, Chelsea Hall has hers done. It’s not a big deal. Besides, you’re having it done, too, so why all the fuss? Claire hopped out of the car and headed inside. Jen followed and held on to her shirt. Let go of me and sit down over there.

Jennifer inched her way to the row of chairs by the window and grabbed a magazine.

Hey, you’re going in with me, so be ready, Claire told her. While she waited for help, she browsed the tattoo drawings on a board. What if she had a small rose or butterfly put on her ankle while she waited on Jen? Do you think my mom would go ballistic if I got a tattoo?

Jennifer looked up from the magazine with a stunned look. Whoa, wait a minute! You said nose piercing, not tattoos. You’re carrying this a bit far, don’t you think? she asked, getting up and walking over to her. Tattoos make you look nasty and if you get one, you can never get rid of it.

Claire kept looking for something cute that would grow with her through age. I know, but how about the sunflower? It’s not gross looking.

Jennifer stepped away from the counter and pulled her toward the sitting area. Listen, I think you’d be making a big mistake if you do this. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I think I know who you’re trying to impress, and he couldn’t care less. You’re beautiful, Claire, but Mitch only has eyes for Chelsea, and you’re just not her.

Claire slumped down in a chair and gazed at the waxy floor beneath her feet. So, you think no matter what I do to improve my looks, Mitch will still see me as plain ole’me?

You’re not plain, and you shouldn’t feel that way about yourself. Marking your body doesn’t make you beautiful. It’s what’s on the inside that matters, Jen said and then tapped her on the shoulder. Why don’t we just forget about the nose piercing and go straight to the mall. It’ll make you feel better.

Claire crossed their names off the list, and they walked out. She knew Jennifer worried and tried to help, but the burning need to have Mitch outweighed her conscience.

JENNIFER EYED THE ENTRANCE to the store with a prudish attitude. Claire, Victoria’s Secret? I thought you wanted to go to Marshalls?

Claire grabbed her by the wrist and headed for the sales rack. Come on, this is the only place you can buy the panties I’m looking for.

As they browsed through the bra section, Claire could have sworn she saw Chelsea Hall out of the corner of her eye. She stepped back to look at the entrance to the changing rooms but saw no one. Hmmm... she thought and brushed it off.

Here ya go, Claire, how about a pair of fishnet and lace panties? Or...would you prefer a flutter thong? Jennifer asked, chuckling and dangling them on her finger. By the way, just who might you be wearing this fancy underwear for anyway?

Claire blushed and yanked the underwear off Jen’s fingers to look them over. I can’t wear these. There’s no crotch, she replied laying them back on the shelf. Here, what about a satin thong?

Jennifer rolled her eyes. Sure, you won’t wear anything without a front, but you’ll wear something that gives you a wedgie? Smart.

Claire nudged her. Just hush and let me look, will ya?

MR. BARTON STOOD IN the driveway pulling pieces of plywood out of the back of his truck when Claire and Jennifer drove up. Claire pulled up to the sidewalk and shut off the car, then climbed out and grabbed her packages from the backseat. She put a smile on her face and tapped the hood to grab his attention. As he looked up at his daughter, he smiled. Hey, Sweetheart, how much money did you spend? I know fifty bucks didn’t buy all that.

She held the bags up and shook them teasingly. Daddy, I’m a smart shopper like you, she said. How else could I get all this?

Mike rolled his eyes and grinned. Aye-aye, sweet daughter of mine, he retorted, saluting like a sailor.

Claire laughed. She loved when he goofed around. As she and Jennifer entered the house through the side door to the mudroom, a roar of laughter resounded from the patio. Claire peeked through the heavy drapes and saw her mother talking with a neighbor. Mom will probably be outside for awhile, so let’s go upstairs.

Jennifer nodded and followed behind her with the bags in tow. This is a lot of stuff you bought. I can’t believe your dad believed you. Jennifer laid the bags on the bed, when they stepped inside the room. Your mom’s another story. She’s not easily fooled.

Claire figured her mom wouldn’t even notice. She hadn’t noticed too much about her these days. Besides, the money was to buy the items she needed for the party. So, who cared. I know you hate Mitch, but don’t you think you’re too judgmental? Claire asked out of nowhere, as she dug in her chest of drawers for nightclothes. You hardly know the guy.

No! That guy makes my skin crawl. There’s something dangerous in his eyes, Jennifer replied taking her nightgown out of her bag. And I can’t believe now that you know about his family that you still like him.

Claire flopped across the bed folding the body pillow under her chest. I doubt his mother’s a witch. Because the town says so, you believe them? That’s not fair, Jen. He deserves a chance. Anyway, you take the first shower while I heat up the pizza.

Jennifer sighed and headed for the linen closet. Believe me, Claire, it’s not a myth. Mitch’s family has plenty of paper trail to reveal their identity and where they come from. I hope you believe me, before you find out the hard way.

She heard the shower turn on in the other room. To help Claire better understand the history of Old Creek, she got up to head to the computer, when a piercing scream startled her. Jen! She sprinted to the bathroom, grabbed the doorknob, but it wouldn’t open. Claire tried harder. She gripped the knob rattling it back and forth, and side to side, but it still wouldn’t budge. I’m coming, Jen. The door’s jammed, she yelled.

Hurry, Claire....

Claire heard something bash against the shower wall. Just a minute, hang on, she cried. Claire had to get in. She kicked the door, bashed it with her fists, but it refused to pry loose.

Oh, God..., Jennifer shrieked.

Claire heard a loud commotion on the other side of the door. The sound of heavy glass shattering. A heavy thud and a moaning sound. As Claire leaned into the door with her shoulder, it popped opened, and she rushed into the bathroom. Claire saw shards of glass from the shower door scattered on the floor and found Jennifer cowering in the corner. Jen, what happened? she asked as she leaned over and turned off the water. Are you hurt?

Jennifer looked at her with terror in her eyes. I don’t know Claire, the man from the lake pushed me.

Claire wrapped a towel around her, took her into the bedroom, and sat her on the bed. She sat down at her dressing table next to the bed and took Jennifer’s hand. Jen, this imagined fiend from the lake has taken a toll on you. There was no one in the bathroom but you. It’s your imagination. Claire squeezed her hand. Jen, look at me.

Jennifer raised her head and screamed, He’s in the mirror, Claire; he’s in the mirror!

Claire whirled around and saw nothing but her own reflection. When she turned back, Jennifer was hiding her face in a pillow. Claire moved over next to her and pulled her to a sitting position. Blood dripped from her nose. Oh my God, you’re bleeding, Claire said and jumped up to get a box of tissues from across the room.

Jennifer swiped her hand under her nostrils. I’m bleeding bad.

Returning with the tissues, Claire wiped the blood from her upper lip. Hold this while I get a washcloth.

As she headed for the bathroom, she caught a glimpse of her father coming up the stairs and hurried to shut the door before he could see the blood. Dang, what’s going on? she wondered. When, she returned to the bedroom, Jennifer looked normal with no signs of blood on her face. Claire stopped in her tracks. Where’s the blood?

What blood?

Your nose was bleeding. What the...?

Are you crazy? My nose wasn’t bleeding. Where’s the pizza?

CHAPTER 3

Mitch Styles: My dearest Claire , I bet you thought I’d never get around to texting you. Sorry for the delay; it’s just, I wasn’t sure of what to say to you. I’m used to dating the cheerleaders, but not a rebel like yourself. Please don’t take that personally. You’re a beautiful girl, and intelligent. As I sit here texting you, I realize how lucky I am to have a friend like you, which reminds me of what you’ve agreed to do for me. Claire, please understand, I’d ask someone else, but I know how much this means to you.

Seeing how you like doing daring things, I knew the cemetery would be right up your alley. Remember, be at Old Creek at midnight, and tell no one about our secret. Be full warned; the graveyard is not your average graveyard. It has an evil sense about it and if you’re not careful, it will kill you... If you can pull this off, and prove to me that you went inside, I will be all yours.

The way it works, my darling Claire, is simple. I love a challenging woman, one who’s willing to risk her life for me. You have to work for it; otherwise, I’m not interested. Don’t let me down, Claire. I yearn to run my fingers through your long blonde hair and kiss your soft pink lips. Remember, this is our little secret.

CLAIRE GLANCED AT THE text once more, then towards the entrance to the den in case Jen came downstairs. She’d woken earlier than Jen and left her upstairs sleeping. She tried to pry herself away from the desk, but she wanted to read the text over and again until she memorized every single word. Mitch meant that much to her and being so love stricken, she failed to notice the insincerity of the words he had written. I will do anything you want me to do, doll, she thought and smiled. Whatever it takes to be in your arms, I am willing to sacrifice anything, even myself. As she turned her attention back to the screen, she was oblivious to a shadow lurking past her.

What are you reading, Claire?

She jumped. Her fingers could not move fast enough to click the phone off. Taking a deep breath, she spun around on the chair and saw Jennifer standing behind her. Oh crap, you scared me, she said placing her hand over her chest. I thought you were an intruder.

Jennifer reached down and grabbed the phone. You’re avoiding the question. Who sent you the text?

Claire’s face heated up. Excuse me? Why do I have to tell you? she asked, slapping Jen’s hand away. It’s private. Give me my phone!

Jennifer slammed the phone in Claire’s hand and flopped down in a recliner. Is it that dirty that you’re ashamed to let me read it? You’re having sex, aren’t you?

Claire leaned back in the chair, propped her feet up on the stool and frowned. Are you out of your mind? No, I’m not having sex. Is there something wrong with texting a guy?

Oh, come on, if you’re not messing around, then why all the secrecy? And since when do you meet guys online? You’re not ugly, so there’s no excuse for this. Homely people have cyberspace love affairs because that’s all they can get.

Claire crossed her arms. She gazed into Jennifer’s eyes and licked her dried lips. Man, you’re such an opinionated person. I can’t believe how poorly you judge people. Did you ever think the person I’m conversing with just might be lonely? Or that they’re too shy to meet anyone in person? she asked.

Jennifer rolled her eyes and leaned forward. Just tell me who the text’s from and I’ll drop it. Otherwise, I’ll hound you until you break.

You’d like that wouldn’t you? Ooh, you make me mad sometimes. Not everything I do in my life has to involve you. And besides, maybe I want a little privacy, for Pete’s sake.

The swivel chair snapped upright. Claire shot to her feet and headed for the kitchen. She ignored Jennifer’s foolish comment and scrounged for something to eat. A blueberry muffin caught her eye.

Will you talk to me? Jennifer asked sinking in a captain’s chair at the kitchen table.

Can you not insult me? I’d enjoy your company much more if you’d keep your trap shut and lay off my back about my texts. Claire poured herself a glass of OJ and went back to the den to watch a little television. Jennifer stayed right on her heels. Fine, Mitch sent me the text. Gawd...does that make you happy? she snapped, annoyed.

Jennifer sat down next to her and pushed the mute button on the remote. Are you serious? You’re talking to Mitch Styles through messages now? But why? He’s not good for you, Claire. He’s not good for anyone.

What the heck are you trying to imply? She set her orange juice down on the end table and pressed her back against the cushion in the chair. I know what this is about; you’re jealous of me aren’t you? You can’t have a guy like Mitch, so you must make me feel bad because I’ve finally found someone who understands me. That’s it isn’t it?

Did I say anything when you dated Cole? No and why didn’t I? Because he was good for you. And what about Ryan McAllister. He was a good guy too, but you didn’t like him, because you said he couldn’t kiss worth a dang. Now, tell me I’m lying, and I’ll kiss your butt.

Claire clicked the movie off and sucked down the rest of her drink. I’m gonna pretend I didn’t hear you say that, because if I don’t, I’ll regret it, she said going up to her bedroom in a hard rush.

Jennifer walked in behind her and slammed the door. What, you wanna fight because the truth hurts? Come on, Claire, I know you, and you’re not like Mitch or the low lives he messes with. You’re better than that.

Just drop it! For the rest of the day until the party, I don’t want to hear his name mentioned again. Got it? she shouted.

Jennifer turned to face the window and sighed. Fine, I’ll leave it alone, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Claire stood behind her making ugly faces like a six-year-old. She had enough of her friends’ opinions. She wanted to do what her heart told her to do. Leaving Jennifer alone in the room, she went downstairs.

Claire...is that you? she heard her mother yell from the kitchen.

Be right there. The arguing woke her mother and now she’d have to hear her moaning and complaining. Did it ever end? Yeah, what do you want?

Barb stood by the stove cooking some eggs and bacon. Why were you and Jen arguing? You two roused the entire house.

We started a stupid argument over Mitch Styles. Jen doesn’t like him, and she doesn’t want me to like him either, Claire said taking a seat at the table. I know she’s just jealous.

Wait just one-minute young lady. Mitch Styles is nothing but a hoodlum. I can’t stand his mother, Rachael, and I heard she’s into witchcraft.

The oak chair skidded behind her as Claire rose from the table. She pressed her knuckles against the laminate tabletop and pinched her eyes. Don’t tell me you believe that crap, too? Come on mom, that’s BS and you know it.

Barb placed the spatula on the pan and whirled around. Are you sassing me, Claire Rene? You have no idea about the Watson clan. Well, I do, and I know what old man Clayton Watson did when I was a kid. Anyway, I had better never catch you near Mitch Styles. Is that clear?

Claire shot Barb a nasty look as she walked out of the room.

We’re not done talking, young lady. Get your butt back in here.

For what, so you can insult me some more?

No, so I can tell you the truth about that sorry-good for nothing family, Barb said scrapping the eggs off onto a plate. Everybody knows about their dead body junkyard out at Old Creek Cemetery.

Anger mounted in Claire. She plopped down on a chair and slammed her elbows atop the table. Start talking, because I don’t have much time to listen to your horror stories.

Barb jabbed the fork into a piece of bacon and sat down. You’ll either make time to hear me out, or you can forget the party.

That’s so not fair, mother. Why do you hound me like this? For fun? she asked picking at a splinter of wood on the table.

What’s not fair? That I worry about you? You’re seventeen, Claire, and I know how teenagers get into trouble. Whether you choose to believe me is up to you. I’m just looking out for your best interests.

Just as Claire started to say something, Jennifer walked into the room. What’s going on? she asked pulling up a chair. I could hear you two from the bedroom.

Claire leaned back in the seat and stared into her mother’s eyes. Mom thinks we have a body snatcher living in our town and unless I believe it, I can’t have the party.

Barb finished the last bite of her food and shoved the plate aside. "Back in the eighties when I was growing up, Old Creek was nothing like it is today. There were stricter rules for us to