Decode

by D.L. Whitehead

The bright orange and red flames look beautiful in contrast to the stark black sky. The colours grew more and more vibrant as the fire licked its way up the old derelict mansion. I stood at the bottom of the hill, blending in with the oak trees shadows, watching. Beneath the fire crackling, pained howls and cries escaped filling the cold, empty sky with their mournful sounds. A mirthless smile spreads on my face. The mansion is completely ablaze now, I can feel the heat radiating off it. I take a step back, seeking the cold embrace of the shadows. My hand brushes something solid, wet and warm, my senses go on high alert. Behind me. I didn't get them all.

72 pages, Paperback

Published December 5, 2011