Bad Boy

Words 238

The forest prepares for the night. Nocturnal creatures begin to stir, while daylight animals and birds settle down to sleep. But sleeping can be dangerous due to the cold night air and predators. The natives are not the only ones who need to be aware. A two-legged predator is on the loose this night, roaming in familiar territory, watching, attuned to the strangers amongst him.

“Happy tenth birthday, Charlie.” Laughter carries on the still night and smoke from a campfire drifts and curls lazily through the trees.

He watches and listens from a safe distance in the shadows.

A man’s deep voice encourages the boys to sing campfire songs. Sweet voices, not yet broken by puberty, remind him of a time long ago. Was he ever ten years old?
Bad boy. That’s what he remembers. Locked in a room, naked and hungry. Bad boy. No Birthday cake for you, cos you’re a bad boy.

The boy scouts toast marshmallows, they laugh, shout, push and shove to get the best position around the flames. He catches sight of the birthday boy, wide smile, eyes bright with innocence; an innocence soon to be lost that night.

Memories of beatings, harsh words, accusations, flood his mind. His breath quickens , blood rushes, pounding in his ears.

Little did any of them know how the birthday party is going to end. Someone is going to die.

He is such a bad boy.



240 words. Written for September Horror Contest.

PROMPT: in celebration of the WdC 24th birthday, there are 2 prompts: BIRTHDAY &/or WdC
WORD COUNT: maximum of 240 words