Two Souls: Into the Fire # 124

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 124

***

Stopping back by Kinsey’s office, they told him they were heading home.

“Kinsey don’t want you to mess around with a seance over at Zack and Trevor’s house,” Steve said, as they walked down to the Whirling Disk to get their car.

“You told him about all that?” asked Ghost.

“Yeah, ’cause I don’t like it either,” Steve said. He’d stopped walking, to look at Ghost, hoping to make him see how dangerous it would be. “Look how it’s already messing with you, Ghost.”

“But, I already said I would.”

“Well, just tell them you can’t, after all…tell them you changed your mind, or that it might make things worse over there, if we did the séance. Tell them anything, just call it off.”

Ghost was shaking his head, as they got back in the car. “No, I won’t do that. I’ll go there by myself, if you don’t want to, but I’m doing what I said I’d do. It’ll be ok, Steve.”

Steve sighed, closing his eyes, as he gripped the steering wheel. “Okay, but I’m still gonna keep bugging ya about it.”

“I know,” Ghost said. “Hey, let’s drive by there now, just to see what it looks like in the daylight. It’s been a long time since I even saw the house.”

“Well, ok…guess that wouldn’t hurt,” Steve said. He started the car, and they drove out to Violin Road.

Driving slowly along the highway, they saw the dilapidated old houses, one after another. None were close together, but all were run down, sad excuses for houses. Some were empty, some had rusting cars out on the weedy lots, and the ones that were still occupied, had a scattering of kid’s toys out in the scraggly yards.

“This area depresses me, Ghost,” Steve said, “and I used to live out here when I was a kid.”

“Was it this bad, back then?”

“Probably not, but what did I know…I was just a kid.”

Ghost stared out the car window, sensing the many years of neglect and despair still hanging on. “That murder…did that happen when you were living out here?” he asked Steve.

Steve frowned, “I think so, but I don’t remember much about it. Just later on, when we’d all go sneaking in there to get ourselves scared. So, Trevor was just a little kid, when it happened. They must have put him in an orphanage, after all that happened.”

“Yeah, and now he’s come back to live in that house, and the spirits of his family are still trapped there.” Ghost shivered. “That’s what’s scaring them now, I guess…their spirits.”

They kept driving, not completely sure which house it was, now, just hoping something would look a little familiar.

“Are we too far out, or what…did we miss it?” Steve asked.

“Go a little farther down…I’m getting a funny feeling,” Ghost said.

Steve glanced over, “Funny?”

“”Yeah, but not funny, you know…”

They kept driving, and soon ran out of any houses at all, just seeing farmland pastures.

“Okay, I’m turning back,” Steve said, “Tell your ‘feeling’ to get it’s shit together this time.

Ghost made a face at Steve, “Don’t disrespect the ‘feeling’, Steve.” He sounded almost serious.

“Um-hum…well, if we don’t see it this time, I’m done,” Steve said.

They drove back toward town, looking on both sides of the road. “Okay, slow down…that bunch of trees…” Ghost said, pointing. “There…there’s a little dirt trail, kind of…at least the weeds are mashed down. Turn in there.” Ghost was looking intently at the spot.

Steve turned in, and stopped. “Now what? I don’t see a house, do you?”

“Not yet, just go on up a ways.”

Steve eased the car a bit farther up the trail, weeds scratching at the underside of the car. “This takes my muffler out, somebody’s gonna pay,” he said.

After another little bit, they did see a form of a house, surrounded by trees. Still, it was hard to make out.

“Are you sure this is the house?” Steve asked, as he pulled up closer, and stopped.

There was no car there, nothing to really indicate this place was even occupied.

“Look at all the vines, Steve. I ain’t never seen a house completely covered like that.” Ghost stared in fascination.

“How do they even get in there?” Steve asked. He kept blinking his eyes, to try and make sense of what he was seeing. “I don’t see an opening for a door, at all.”

Ghost started giggling.

“What the fuck, Ghost? Why you acting like a fool, all of a sudden?”

Ghost kept on, until tears were falling, and he could hardly breathe.

“Stop it, Ghost…you’re scaring me,” Steve said, reaching over and shaking Ghost’s shoulders. “Did the demons possess ya, already?”

This made Ghost completely collapse into hysterical laughter.

“Oh, Lord…I’m getting outta here,” Steve said, starting the car up again.

Ghost managed to reach out and grab Steve’s arm, which made Steve startle and yelp.

“No, stop…wait,” Ghost choked out.

Steve glared at him, “Are you messin’ with me, Dude, ’cause it aint’ funny,” he said.

“Oh, Steve…stop…I can’t take any more,” Ghost cackled. “Your eyes, your face…you look so scared, your hair’s gonna turn white. Oh my God…I need some air,” Ghost said, as he opened the car door, and got out. He didn’t realize how completely weak from laughter and adrenaline he was, so as he stepped on the ground, his knees gave out. He fell face down, on the ground by the car.

Steve stared in disbelief. He cut the engine off, then jumped out, hopping around to the other side of the car, to see about Ghost.

“Ghost, what in the world has got into you?”

Ghost rolled over, holding his stomach, sore from laughing, as  he tried to get control of himself, but the giggles kept coming.

“What the hell is wrong with you?” Steve was getting mad now. “I’m gonna leave ya here, if ya don’t stop.”

“Help me up,” Ghost said, taking a much needed deep breath. He wiped his eyes and nose on his sleeve.

“What was so funny?” Steve asked. “I didn’t see anything funny going on.”

“Just the way you said ‘how do they get in, when you can’t even see a door’…and then…then I imagined them having to use a machete every time they went in or out…and then…you…you all scared looking,” Ghost explained.

“Yeah, ’cause of how you were acting…I thought them haints done got ‘cha,” Steve said, ignoring what Ghost had said about him being scared.

“Sorry, it was just funny,” Ghost said. He’d calmed down now. “But, really, all this build up, and tension on me…I guess I just had to get it out.”

“Well, ok, then…you done? You had enough, so we can go home, now? If they come home and find us snooping, it won’t be good.”

“Yeah, but I want to go look around the back, first,” Ghost said.

“Uh-uh..no way,” Steve shook his head.

“Yeah, just for a minute,” Ghost said. He began walking over to the house, then around the side of the vine covered house. Steve followed.

“Hey, look at this,” Ghost said, as they came to the back yard. There was a vine covered arbor, and a cleared path to the back door. “Guess this is how they get in.”

Yeah, looks like it, but it’s still not funny. Can we get out of here, now?” Steve asked.

“Ok, let’s go. I got a feel for what I’ll be dealing with at the séance, at least a little,” Ghost said.

They got back in the car, heading down the highway for their own house.

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2019 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

***

 

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 88

Two Souls: Ito the Fire # 88

warning … adult content

***

When they turned onto the main street in town, there were lots of cars parked up and down the street, and the jukebox was playing loud music, filtering out into the night air. Entering the club, they made their way to the bar, greeting friends along the way. Kinsey was busy pouring drinks and serving food, so he just brought them a beer, and said he’d talk to them when he got a break.

Steve downed his beer in a couple of gulps, as he scanned the crowd. He didn’t see who he was pretending not to look for. Ghost went over to read the wall and see what was new since they’d been away. He noticed the postcards he and Steve had sent, pinned there, and lots of new writings all around them, mostly saying how much they missed him and Steve.

He then noticed a vaguely familiar handwriting. It said ‘come home soon Ghost. We need to talk’, and it was signed…Nothing…the same way he always signed his name, the letter T with a long tail. It was also kind of drippy looking…like the ink had flowed too fast. But, looking closer, Ghost realized it had been written in blood…Nothing’s blood.

He closed his eyes. He could picture Nothing standing there, at this very wall, maybe stabbing himself to get at his blood…writing those words. Shivering, he turned to look out over the crowd. He sensed that Nothing wasn’t there, but he still felt a strangeness in the air…a sort of leftover essence. He also knew, now, that it was true…Nothing was back in town.

Ghost wasn’t afraid of him, but it still gave him a creepy feeling, to know Nothing had been in this club, at this wall…Ghost’s wall…getting all up in his and Steve’s space, talking to their friends, and nobody knew the real Nothing. He felt violated. And then, Steve was on the verge of exploding with anger…there was going to be trouble, and he was going to be right in the middle…again.

Ghost looked over at Steve, and tried to send him a message…to keep cool. Steve didn’t seem to get it. He just waved back at Ghost. In fact, Steve had been distracted by a crowd of kids, over in the arcade room. Lots of laughter and bustling around, and it was centered on two guys at one of the games.

He’d never seen these two before. One was nerdy looking – skinny, with wild dark hair, not unlike his own. Nothing unusual about that. The other guy was a bit taller, a bit older, and had long, ginger colored hair, held back in a pony tail down his back. They definitely were holding the crowd’s attention.

As he watched, the two laughed, then kissed. Okay, Steve thought, they are a couple. But, who are they? Grabbing his third beer, he started over there to see what was up. But, just then, Kinsey grabbed his arm and motioned to come talk.

Kinsey led him back to his office, where it was quieter, and closed the door. He sat down and propped his aching feet up on the desk. Steve sat on the worn out old couch.

“I’ll tell ya, Steve, the older I get, the longer these night get,” Kinsey laughed, shaking his head. He knew he’d never retire from his club…he loved it.

“Well, glad you and Ghost are back home. Did ya have a blast, or what?”

Steve wasn’t really in a talking mood, at least about the trip. He wanted to know about the two guys he saw. “Yeah, the trip was great, Kinsey. We got a lot of pictures and stuff for Ghost’s book, and saw lots of weird shit, and played a few places. But it was time to come home for awhile, ya know.” He didn’t offer up any more details, and they just stared at each other, the moment growing awkward.

“What the hell’s wrong with ya, Steve? You don’t seem like yourself. What’s going on?”

Steve sighed. “I don’t know, Kinsey,” he said, rubbing his face in his hands. “Things seem weird since we got back…changed, or something.”

“You and Ghost getting along ok?” Kinsey asked.

“Yeah, we’re fine…just…something Terry told us got us worried, now.”

“Well, spill it, what’d he say?”

“He said some guy came looking for us, here in town, and he didn’t want to cause trouble, but..but…that’s all he does is cause trouble.”

Kinsey frowned. “I don’t want any trouble in here, Steve. This place is off limits for that shit.”

“I know, Kinsey, but…”

“No…no buts, Steve. I mean it. What kind of trouble are you expecting? What’s he done in the past, and who is he? Do I know him?”

“Kinsey, I can’t even talk about it…but, he’s dangerous. Kinsey, he almost killed me and Ghost…or rather his posse did, and he had everything to do with Ann’s death!” Steve got up from the couch, pacing around the office.

“All that shit that went down in New Orleans…well…we never told ya the whole story, Kinsey, and I said I’d never talk about it again…but now, here he is, come looking for us…for Ghost!” Steve stared hard at Kinsey, his jaw clenching, his eyes narrowed.

“God, Kinsey…he’s obsessed with having Ghost for himself. I can’t let that happen. I’ll kill him first!”

“Hey, hold on, Steve, settle down. You’re not gonna kill anyone, ya hear? And what’s Ghost got to say about it? Does he know this creep’s back in town?”

“Yeah, and he says he’s not afraid of him, but I can tell he is. Man, I’m so messed up!” Steve said.

“So, who is he? I won’t let him in here,” said Kinsey.

Steve stared right into Kinsey’s eyes. “Nothing…his name is Nothing.”

Kinsey was confused. “That little kid? That little goth kid? I’ve seen him…he manages that band Terry put together. They play here some nights. What’s dangerous about him?”

Steve banged his fist on Kinsey’s desk. “Trust me, he’s evil…he’s not even human…he’s a vampire!”

Kinsey couldn’t believe his ears. “Steve! Have you lost your marbles for real this time?” He was laughing. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“Shut up, Kinsey! You have no idea. Stop laughing.” Steve began pacing around again, pulling at his wild hair and looking crazed. “I have to get rid of him before he hurts someone else.”

Just then, the door opened, and Ghost came in looking for Steve. He took one look at the scene in front of him, turned even paler than usual, and burst out in tears.

Kinsey was stunned at this turn of events, and was at a loss for words, just staring from Steve to Ghost. These two caused chaos everywhere they went.

“You told him?” Ghost whispered, looking like he was going to pass out. “Why?”

“Yeah, I told him all about Nothing, your vampire stalker…and what I was gonna do to him.”

Ghost turned frightened eyes to Kinsey.

“He laughed in my face, Ghost…didn’t believe a word of it,” Steve said. “Isn’t that right, Kinsey? How long ya known us, huh? We ever lie to you? No! But now you don’t believe us when we tell ya something about how there’s evil out there, looking for us? Just because you don’t believe in vampires?” Steve was breathing hard.  “Hate to tell ya this, but you had one working for ya awhile back…Christian…yeah, he was one. Say it…vampire, vampire…but he’s gone now, cause I killed him. Good and dead, vampire dead, and Ghost killed Christian’s lover vampire, Zilla…deader than dead…and guess what? Nothing is Zilla’s son. So, yeah, he’s a vampire, too. And he’s after Ghost and me…and, and…we’re not lying, and we’re not crazy, Kinsey. And…” Steve ran out of words, as tears ran down his face from frustration.

Ghost was in tears, Steve was in tears, and Kinsey was reeling with all this crazy talk and drama. He’d never had reason to doubt Steve or Ghost, ever…about anything, but this…this, well, he didn’t know what to think, to believe, to say.

“I’m sorry guys. This is just so outlandish. I’ve never heard anything like this in my life. But, I’m sorry I laughed, Steve. You just caught me off guard. I know y’all wouldn’t lie to me, but, I don’t know…could you be mistaken about the vampire thing?”

“Kinsey,” Steve said, calmly, too calmly, “you believe whatever you want, but we’re not mistaken” He pulled Ghost up from the floor, where he’d collapsed, and they went out the door, and out of the club.

***

***

Next Part Coming soon

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning warning warning warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 72

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 72

warning … adult content

***

Downstairs, the woman had prepared a huge breakfast for them. Ghost avoided looking at the pantry, keeping his eyes on his plate. Steve kicked him under the table, prodding him to ask his questions, before they had to leave.

The woman knew what was going on though, so she brought up the subject.

“Well, Ghost, you found out our secret, didn’t you? I knew you would,” she said. “You and your grandmother are the only ones to have ever figured it out. Other guests have heard random noises, here and there, but in all the years, only you two have had the psychic gift to be able to get the full story.” She smiled at Ghost.

“But…I didn’t. I don’t know what it was I saw..and I didn’t move from this here table, and…and…I had dirt all over me…and…why?” Ghost said in a rush.

“It’s okay, Ghost,” the woman said. “Your gift is so powerful, it manifested the dirt on you from what happened in this house over a hundred years ago. It wasn’t real, you just envisioned it.”

“It was too real!” Ghost said. “I had real dirt on me. Steve saw it , too…this morning”

Steve had been watching this exchange, while shoveling in his food, but said, “Yeah, I saw it. What are you saying…Ghost had hundred year old dirt on him? Gross!”

The woman looked a bit startled. This had gone beyond her abilities to explain. She got off the subject of old dirt, to her main explanation.

“The tunnel and room you saw is indeed under this house, but it’s been boarded up and sealed for many, many years. There’s no way you could have gotten in there. This house was a stop-over on the underground railroad. The runaway slaves would know this as a safe house on their journey north.

You probably heard the voices, and saw the men down in the basement. It’s just a vision, now. It runs in a loop, over and over. I’ve seen it myself, in a dream, of course…it’s my family’s history.”

“But, what about the secret door in the pantry that opened, and someone said ‘come in’, and the mirror person?” Ghost asked.

“What are you talking about? There’s no door in there. The slaves had an outside entrance, long since done away with,” she said.

“But, just go look in there,” Ghost said, as he got up from the table to go show her.

She shook her head, “No, it isn’t possible.”

“I know what I saw, and I’ll show you,” Ghost said.

Steve reached out, touching Ghost’s arm to stop him. “Just drop it, Ghost…there’s no need to…”

“But, she’s calling me a liar, Steve. You know I don’t lie,” Ghost said.

Steve knew he had to get Ghost out of there immediately, or he’d completely lose control.

“We gotta go now,”  Steve said, as he pushed Ghost toward the stairs, to collect their things.

“Thanks for the bed and the food,” he said to the woman, as he kept pushing Ghost’s back, herding him up.

“Stop pushing me, Steve,” Ghost said, as he flinched away.

“Get your shit and let’s get going…the old lady’s getting pissed at us,” Steve said.

“Well, so am I,” said Ghost, as he grabbed his backpack and stomped back down the stairs, and out the front door, slamming the screen behind him.

Steve gave the woman an extra hundred dollars, “Sorry to cause you any trouble,” he said.

She just stared, and nodded. She knew Ghost had been telling the truth, but he was so unbelievably gifted, that what he’d said caused her to feel afraid of her own house.

Ghost was still fuming, as Steve gunned the engine of the car, and they sped away. “Remind me to never go to a haunted house again, Steve. Grandmother always told me to look at things, and read people, if I have to…but some don’t want to hear the truth, and to keep my mouth shut. But, I forget sometimes. You believe me, don’cha, Steve?”

“Of course I do, Ghost. I’ve known you long enough to never doubt you about things like this. Try to let it go, though. We’re gone from there, and it doesn’t mean anything to us, anyway.”

“Hmmph…” Ghost snorted. “Guess I will forget about it.” He sat in silent rage for a bit longer though.

Steve kept driving. They were on a steady incline, going up into the Smoky Mountains. The road was kind of narrow – just a going up lane, and a coming down lane…no towns here, just lots of tall, tall trees. He had to concentrate to navigate the twists and turns, and he prayed the car wouldn’t break down.

They were on the side with the trees; the down side was a drop off into the tops of more trees, and no guard rails, he could see. A sign every now and then assured them that there was a rest stop up ahead, somewhere. They could get out, get some gas, and some food. He’d need to calm his nerves after this drive.

Ghost had finally fallen asleep, and was muttering as he dreamed. Steve figured it was about his strange encounter. After the rest stop, it was downhill all the way to the Tennessee border. Steve had never been there – never really been much of anywhere. He’d been across to Virginia, though, back when he used to rob coke machines. And, a few stops on his way to find Ghost out in California. He was looking forward to seeing new places, at a more leisurely pace.

In about an hour, the rest stop was in view. It had a gas island, restaurant, gift shop, cabins to rent, and a scenic view overlook. He was all too glad to stop for awhile. His hands were stiff from being curled so tight around the steering wheel, and his butt had gone to sleep, miles back.

Ghost looked comfortable enough in the back seat, all stretched out, but Steve woke him anyway. They both needed to decide their next destination.

“Hey, Ghost, wake up…we’re getting something to eat here.”

Ghost came to slowly, as usual. It had always taken him awhile to come back from the wonderland of his dreams, and back to reality. Steve was terrified that someday Ghost just wouldn’t come back. That would be the end of the world for himself, if that happened. That was one reason he felt he had to be Ghost’s protector, and make sure he never left for good.

“Where are we?” Ghost yawned and stretched, rubbing his eyes, and running his fingers through his hair.

“We’re at the top of the mountain, at a rest stop. Get out and look. We’re gonna eat at this restaurant.”

“Okay, hang on,” Ghost said, as he searched the floor of the car to find his shoes. He also pulled on his hoodie, as it was chilly already up here.

Steve held out his hand, helping Ghost out of the back seat. Ghost was unsteady, as he was still trying to come fully awake. “I need coffee, Steve,” he said.

“I do, too. Let’s go up there…see what they have to eat,” said Steve, leading the way.

***

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 58

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 58

warning … adult content

***

At the hospital, Steve went out to tell Kinsey and Terry what the doctor said about Ghost’s hand, and that they could leave them here. He’d let them know when to come get them.

They’d given Ghost pain medication and a sedative, so he was pretty much out of it, almost asleep again. Steve told him what was going on, and Ghost nodded, but was talking gibberish. Steve hugged him, then lay on the small couch, by the hospital bed. He was remembering the time he’d been in this hospital, after his wreck. Well, he got fixed up, and so would Ghost. They’d be back home soon.

The surgery went well the next morning. Ghost came out with a big cast on his hand and wrist; all the bones had been put back together, as much as possible. He was told he would probably have a crooked place or two in his fingers, but mainly, he’d heal pretty quick. His fever and the infection were going away now, and after two days, he was released to go home. Terry and Kinsey both came to get them.

~

Kinsey had gotten the extra room ready for them, too, so that’s where the went. But, after a few days, both Steve and Ghost were getting restless. They were eager to start fixing up the house. Kinsey was getting anxious to have everything back to normal, too. He wasn’t used to having house guests, but it would be quite awhile before the house would be ready to live in again.

Steve and Kinsey had hired a guy to remove the big tree that had fallen on the house. Ghost hadn’t been back to the house, yet, so he badgered Steve to take him out there.

“You have to get your car, anyway,” Ghost said.

“I know, and Kinsey said the guys got the tree out today. I’ll get Kinsey to drive us out there in the morning, ok?”

“Yeah, but Steve, how are we gonna fix the house? We never fixed a house before.”

“I don’t know, Ghost, but guess we’ll start by going through everything, and keeping what we can, then…then…well, we’ll figure it out.” He thought about his guitar…it was still out there in his car. He listened as Ghost sang some of their songs; Ghost made his own music. He sang a bit too, not liking how he sounded, though.

Kinsey came in, then, from the club, and Steve told him of their plans for the day.

“Sure, I’ll drive you out there…and I’ve been talking about y’all’s situation to some of the guys in town. Over at the hardware store, they all want to help y’all out…you know, with building supplies. I heard them say they knew some carpenters and roofers, and they’re on board, too, soon as y’all are ready.”

Steve was looking down at the floor, overcome. “I don’t deserve anybody’s help, Kinsey – especially from them. They still hate me, and it’d be awkward.”

“Steve, they offered. I guess they don’t hate you anymore, so I’d let them help, if they want to, or they may get offended.”

Steve thought about it. “Yeah, guess we do need somebody’s help, since me and Ghost don’t know how to do it. But, we’re paying them. We won’t take charity.”

“Fine, Steve, y’all offer, but if they refuse, then drop it, okay?”

“Yeah, I will,” Steve said.

Ghost was quiet during all this, but now said, “I want to do something too, but what?” he pointed to his cast.

Steve jokingly said, “You can be the boss. You can tell everybody what you want done to the house…you own it, after all.”

Ghost smiled. He liked that idea.

~

The next morning they all drove out there. Poking around in the mess was hard work, physically picking up broken and water-logged items, and emotionally, at what all was lost. Anything they could use was set aside. The rest went into garbage bags. By early evening, everyone was tired and ready to go get a cold beer, back in town.

“I didn’t like doing that,” said Ghost. “The house feels sad that it got hurt…that things are different, now.”

Steve figured Ghost was really talking about how he felt. “Well, we’ll repair it, and put other stuff in there.”

“I know, but almost all of my grandmother’s potions got broke. They were probably important. What if I need to take something…what will I do if I can’t find any more? I don’t know how to mix that stuff up.”

“We’ll figure it out, Ghost. Your friend, Miz Caitlin, probably has all of that at her place, anyway.” But, what he really thought to himself, was good riddance. It was creepy old stuff, anyway. Ghost can just take pills, like everyone else.

“I guess so,” said Ghost, “but, it’s not the same.”

~

Back at the Sacred Yew, everyone had a few beers and sandwiches, and turned in early. The next few days were going to be busy. The men were going out there to start the rebuilding, the next day.

As they prepared to leave, the next morning, there was a knocking at the club door. Kinsey opened it, to find quite a few young men and women on his doorstep. They all had on t-shirts and jeans, and were fresh-faced, and eager to tell him something.

Who are these kids, he wondered…then it dawned on him…these are my club kids. He hadn’t recognized them at first, without their black, goth clothes and jewelry, and without their dark lined eyes, and spray painted hair. They looked so different.

One of them held out a large stack of money. “This is to help Ghost and Steve fix their house,” the girl said. “We took up a collection, ’cause we love them, and don’t want them to ever leave. We also have a bunch of stuff gathered up for them…like dishes, and sheets, and a couch, and tables, and an old bed…just lots of stuff…and clothes, too.” She smiled, and then an older boy said they had tools and boards and lots of supplies, to help rebuild the old house. They were there to help, to do all they could to help out their hometown band, Lost Souls?”

Kinsey was speechless. He always knew these Missing Mile kids were truly good kids, no matter how they dressed. “Thank you all so much. Y’all are amazing. We can use all of your help…we’re heading out there now, if you want to follow us,” he finally said.

Ghost and Steve came downstairs to see what was going on. Everyone talked at once, all excited. It was beginning to seem like a big ‘ol party. One by one, the loaded cars left the club, and caravanned out to Burnt Church Road. Kinsey had made sandwiches for an army, and Steve had his guitar along. Convening at the house, everyone got busy doing something.

There were deliveries of boards for walls, roofing materials, flooring, and of course, everything the kids had collected. Steve did whatever was asked of him, from nailing boards, to holding up wall panels. Whenever he wasn’t needed for something, he played his guitar, and Ghost would sing to everyone.

Kinsey was proud of his little community – how they all came together to help someone in need. It took only three days to complete the repairs. Steve tried to pay the workers, but they brushed it off, just saying that they help their own citizens in need, and to just pay it forward someday. Steve was humbled and grateful, and Ghost was so happy and excited, he danced around hugging anyone who’d stand still for it.

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 57

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 57

warning … adult content

***

Steve kept hollering, “Over here, we’re over here,” when he heard Kinsey yelling and looking for them.

He and Ghost kept walking through the woods in that direction, until they could see the graveyard, and then, Kinsey and Terry on the other side. Terry and Kinsey rushed toward them. After seeing them alive, and that Ghost was hurt, the next thing they did notice was their lack of clothes. Steve had forgotten about being embarrassed. He was just happy to have been found.

Kinsey took Ghost from Steve. “Thank God you’re alive. Where did y’all go?”

Steve explained about the cave, and how they’d had to get out of the house after the tree fell on it. “How does it look?”

Kinsey shook his head, “Not good, Steve. It may have to be torn down.”

“No, we’re gonna fix it,” Steve said.

“Sure, man,” Terry said. “Sure, I’ll help ya.” He looked over at Kinsey and shrugged. They knew they should just go along with whatever Steve said, for now.

“What happened to Ghost? Did the tree smash his hand? It’s all broken and swollen up,” Terry asked.

“Uh, yeah, I guess so…it was such a crazy night. Everything was falling and crashing. We just had to get out of there in a hurry,” Steve said.

“Guess y’all didn’t have time to get dressed, either, huh?”

“Yeah, didn’t have time,” said Steve, in a tone that meant – don’t ask about it again.

All this time, they’d been walking back to the house. “We have to get Ghost to the hospital,” said Kinsey. “He’s got a bad fever, and probably broken bones in his hand.”

“They continued to talk, finally coming to the clearing into the back yard. The house looked bad from this side, too. Terry and Kinsey kept going, supporting Ghost, then noticed Steve wasn’t following behind them any more.

“Hey, Steve, where’d ya go?” Terry hollered.

They looked back to the edge of the woods, and saw Steve on his knees, hands covering his face. He was crying…huge, body shaking sobs. Terry ran back.

“What is it, Steve? What’s the matter? Y’all are okay now, and we’ll help ya get the house fixed.”

But, Steve couldn’t talk, couldn’t explain. It felt like the past two years had just crashed down on him. He’d had to be strong, and keep it together for so long. He’d had to numb his feelings…no one should suspect that macho Steve had actual feelings. But, just now, he’d finally cracked, and the whole of it had been too much to hold back any longer. He thought he’d never stop crying.

“It’s okay, man, it’s okay,” said Terry, not really knowing what else to do.

Kinsey had turned back to see what was going on. He’d sat Ghost down on the ground, but even in his far off place, Ghost could hear Steve’s cries…could feel his anguish and pain for all that had gone before, and his fear of what would come. Even in his own pain, Ghost managed to get up and stagger back to Steve.

“Go…” he said to Kinsey and Terry, as he waved them away.

They backed up some, just watching. Ghost put his arms around Steve then, and talked softly to him. Steve heard, and the crying slowed. Ghost kept talking in soothing tones, telling him to cry it all out, to not worry about what comes next; no matter what, they’d be together and work out their pain. He told him he would never leave him, that he loved him. He kept brushing back Steve’s hair, and wiping the tears away, as fast as they fell…his own joining Steve’s in empathy.

Then, they both rose to their feet, and leaning on each other, made their way toward the old house, and their ‘whatever comes next’.

Terry and Kinsey just stared in awe at the two of them. They were survivors. As they all reached the house, they were overwhelmed at the mess. It would take a lot of time and work to get it back to being livable.

“Y’all can’t stay here…you’re gonna stay at the club. There’s an extra room upstairs by mine. Steve, look around…see if there’s anything you have to have that’s not ruined, then I’m taking Ghost to the hospital.

So, Steve and Terry wandered around the broken house. There was still water soaking everything, their clothes included. Most of their band equipment was still out in the car, so there wasn’t much they’d need from the house right now. Ghost’s Army jacket was soaked, but Steve picked it up anyway. It could be washed; his backpack was lying in a puddle of water. He took that too. It was supposed to be waterproof…his current notebooks and journals were in there…his older ones, he kept in the trunk of the car. That was all for now.

He remembered that in the car was a pile of clothes. They almost never cleaned out the car, and joked about being able to live on what was in there, including snacks, and bottles of water and beer. Steve dug out some clothes for them both. The car was ok, but was blocked from getting out, by all the tree branches. They’d get it later. The four of them got into Kinsey’s car, and drove out to the highway. They were all going to Raleigh, it seemed.

No one said much on the way. Steve and Ghost were exhausted. They both dozed off, there in the back seat. Kinsey had to drive carefully, as the highway was still littered, in the storm’s aftermath. The highway road crews were trying to clear it.

Terry checked to see if they were asleep. They were, so he elbowed Kinsey – he had something to say, and he said it quietly.

“Kinsey, I saw something weird at the house – in Ghost’s bedroom. Did you notice the handcuffs attached to the bed railing?”

Kinsey looked over at Terry and shook his head.

“Yeah, they were locked closed, and kinda smashed up and bent, but still closed. What do ya think of that?”

Kinsey raised his eyebrows, and said, “Hmm, what do you make of it, Terry?”

“Well, what I’m thinking, and I may be way off, is that Ghost was handcuffed to the bed. You know…they might have been messing around with each other…and then the storm came, and they couldn’t get to the key…and Steve had to bash Ghost’s hand to get him loose. That’s what I think.”

Kinsey sighed. “Yeah, that’s what it sounds like. Guess he had to do whatever he could to save themselves. Damn, these two go through so much shit. Looks like they’d catch a break sometimes…and guess I’m not gonna ask them about it, either.”

“Yeah, me neither,” said Terry.

~

They finally got to the emergency room, and checked in, filling out forms, and explaining their need for Ghost to be seen. The waiting room was pretty full, so they waited. When Ghost was called back, Steve went with him. They took x-rays, and then came the conference with the doctor. Looking at the film, Steve couldn’t tell much, but the doctor pointed out all the broken bones in Ghost’s hand. It was serious…Ghost would have to have surgery, as soon as possible, or he’d lose his hand. Already, the infection from the cuts, was doing damage. After an antibiotic shot, they admitted Ghost to a room…he’d have surgery the next morning.

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 53

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 53

warning … adult content

***

After all had calmed down from the attempted kidnapping of Ghost, and the arrest of Maxy, Kinsey had had enough. Steve continued to pack up their equipment, as Kinsey kept talking.

~

“I’m closing the club for awhile,” said Kinsey. I’m taking a much needed break, a long vacation. Don’t know if, or when, I’ll open up again.”

“Aw, Kinsey, you’ll be back. Get rested…then you won’t be able to stay away. Please don’t go away forever,” Steve said.

“Well, we’ll see,” Kinsey said, smiling back at Steve. “What are your plans, now?”

“I think me and Ghost are gonna take a road trip, too. Maybe play a few bars and clubs…whatever we find along the way, you know, check out the rest of the world beyond Missing Mile.”

“Oh, you never told me about the new car…” Kinsey mentioned.

“Well, that’s a weird story, Kinsey. We found out miz Deliverance left more than just the house to Ghost. She left him a bunch of money over in the bank, in Raleigh…so, we checked it out.”

“And…” Kinsey asked.

“And…we’ll be okay,” Steve grinned. “Well, better than okay. She included me in her wishes, and…well, me and Ghost…well…it’s more than we’ll ever, ever have time to spend in our whole lives.”

Kinsey raised his eyebrows.

“Kinsey, don’t tell anyone else, we trust you…so, I guess Ghost don’t care if I tell you…she left us two million dollars. I don’t know how it happened, but there it all was, in cash, in a bank vault…just waiting for us.”

Kinsey was flabbergasted. His old friend had stashed away that much? “My, God, Steve…I don’t even know what to say.”

“Yeah, we can hardly believe it either. So we got the car and paid in full with some of that money. She told me to manage it for Ghost…you know, ’cause he don’t know anything about money…so, that’s what I’m gonna do. I’ll look after Ghost as best as I can. I know we have our problems sometimes, but…you know I love Ghost…I love him so much, Kinsey. My heart is so full of emotion every time I look at him. He’s my very soul, and if anything ever happened to him…well, I wouldn’t even exist either.” He brushed a hand over his face to wipe the tears away.

“I know, Steve, I can see it between the both of you. Not many people would understand, but I’ve known you both so many years…well, there’s no denying it…y’all were meant to be together, yeah, forever. So, I’ll be away, and y’all will be away…guess someday we’ll make it back here.”

“Of course, Kinsey, this is home. We’ll never leave it behind. It’s a part of us all.”

Kinsey nodded. “Hey, where is Ghost, anyway?”

They looked around the club, but didn’t see him. Then, looking outside, they saw Ghost sitting up on the hood of the new car, leaning back on the windshield. He was staring up into the dark, midnight sky, filled with thousands of sparkly stars. They could hear him talking softly to all the unseen spirits that always surrounded him.

Steve and Kinsey smiled. “That’s our Ghost,” Steve said. “Hey, what ‘cha lookin’ at?” he asked, as he climbed up to lean back with Ghost.

Kinsey shook his head at the two of them, as he went back inside the club.

“Stars,” said Ghost.

“Who ya talkin’ to?”

Steve was hoping for more than a one word answer, but Ghost just replied, “Stars.”

“Hmm,” began Steve, but then Ghost started talking about mystical things. Steve knew that once Ghost got going, he’d hear all kinds of crazy things from his weird and wonderful friend. He loved it…Ghost stories, he called them. Sometimes they were just made up stuff, and some were dreams Ghost had had, and some were like landmarks to look for in the future. He’d get a feeling of deja-vu, and then remember…oh, yeah, Ghost said this would happen, and here it is, just like he said. So weird…

“So, you know what, Steve?” Ghost asked. “These stars here that we’re lookin’ at…these ones are the same ones the other side of the world are seeing. How can that be?”

Steve knew he didn’t have to answer.

“And, these stars – well, some aren’t there anymore – they burned out already, but their light is just now getting in our eyes. That’s too sad. Poor little stars. That’s why we have to look at them now, so…so…well…so they won’t be alone in the night of their last little star-shine. We’re here to keep them company, and that’s who I was talking to…to say to them ‘I loved seeing your light, you made me happy tonight, it was such a pretty sight, I wished upon your light, that we would never fight, and the ocean will catch you when you fall, and be like diamonds in the deep, so guess I shouldn’t weep, maybe I’ll see you again someday’.”

By then, Ghost was singing the words to a haunting melody he’d made up on the spot. That was his genius lyrical mind at work…spontaneous and magical. Steve was fascinated.

“I love you, Ghost,” Steve said simply.

“I know,” Ghost said dreamily, “thank you for loving me, Steve.

Steve smiled. It was time for them to go home. He’d tell Ghost of his plans for a road trip, later.

And, so they left for home, that late night, never knowing what the future would bring for sure, but knowing they would be there to face it together. They didn’t notice that Ghost’s stars were slowly fading behind a thick mist of clouds. They both tumbled into bed, and were fast asleep, by the time the warnings were posted.

During the night, the tropical storm that had been pounding the Caribbean Islands, had developed into a hurricane, and was gathering strength. As morning dawned, it was moving into the Atlantic, and was aiming at the Georgia and Carolina’s coastal region. Outer bands of rain gusted on the wind, driving the sea spray in front of it

***

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 50

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 50

warning … adult content

***

The morning came and went, then toward noon, one by one, they staggered out to the kitchen with their individual hangover torture. Steve gulped water and Advil for his pounding head, and Terry grabbed some, too. Kinsey’s stomach was rolling around worse than his head, and Ghost slurped down a hangover potion he brought out of the back room. He offered it to the others, but no one took him up on it.

Coffee was made, and they sat in silence around the kitchen table. Ghost finally went out to the front yard, where he stood looking up at the sky. It was his usual ritual of starting his day…a short commune with nature, but as it was already past noon, it was too hot to stay out long. As he came back in, Terry and Kinsey were just about to leave. Steve walked with them out to their car. He had to ask Kinsey if he could borrow it, before he left.

“Hey, Kinsey, I need a favor,” he started. “Is it okay if I borrow your car later this afternoon? I’ve got an errand to run, and if you want, me and Ghost will pick up any supplies you need, over in Raleigh.”

Kinsey didn’t mind, and he could use a few things. “Yeah, ok, Steve. Come on by later, and I’ll have a list for you.”

After they’d left, Steve went in to tell Ghost his plan. He found Ghost in his bedroom making a new writing on his wall. He agreed with Steve to go check out the bank vault, and go shopping for Kinsey.

“Well, get ready, and we’ll go on over there,” Steve said. He picked up his guitar, and went to the couch to strum through a few songs. Ghost came out, humming along, and in a good mood, and they began the walk into town.

They had retrieved the key from the back of the journal, and Steve kept jiggling it around in his pocket. He didn’t know why he felt nervous. He felt weird, hoping there was a lot of money in there…because it wasn’t his, and he felt greedy to use Ghost’s inheritance; but, Miz Deliverance wanted him to manage it for Ghost, so it didn’t really hurt to fantasize about it. Maybe there really wasn’t any money…maybe she was delusional; or maybe there was some, but not very much. Well, only one way to find out, and that was to go see for sure what was in there.

They reached the Sacred Yew, pushing open the heavy wooden door, to a blast of cool air. “Ahhh,” they both sighed at the relief from the hot, humid air outside. Kinsey brought them both a cold soda and a sandwich, and they went over the grocery list.

“No big hurry, this time,” he winked in understanding to Steve. They also firmed up a date for the next weekend for Lost Souls? to have a show.

~

On the way up to Raleigh, Steve suggested the song list they could do, and that they’d need to practice some more. It had been so long since the last time they’d had a gig…over two years now. He missed it, and hoped they’d get back into the groove they’d always had. The he started worrying about the money situation, again.

Ghost rode in silence, just listening to Steve rattle on, and after a few minutes, he fell asleep, as he almost always did on a car ride. As they parked in front of the bank, Steve woke Ghost.They sat there a few minutes, watching people come and go. Steve was thinking that he and Ghost looked like a couple of hooligans, or redneck hillbillies, compared to the people he saw, even though they were both wearing decent clothes, this time out.

“Well, nothing to be done about it now,” he thought.

“We belong here as much as they do, Steve…we have a key.” Ghost said, as he got out of the car, and walked right on up and through the bank’s door. Steve followed, feeling people staring at them. Ghost kept going, straight to the first desk he saw, and asked where the vaults were. They were led down a hall into another room, with about a hundred locked boxes covering each wall.

Steve looked at their key number and found the right box. Taking a deep breath, and even though his hands were shaking, Ghost inserted the key and turned it. Steve was afraid to look…afraid to be disappointed. Inside was a large manilla envelope, which Ghost carefully pulled out. They sat at a table, there in the vault room. Ghost glanced at Steve, then opened the flap.

Inside, he saw actual money. The envelope was stuffed full of it…some in neatly stacked and wrapped piles, others, just loose. He pulled it all out. It was just pieces of paper to him. Looking over at Steve, he asked, “Well, what do you think? It’s money, isn’t it?”

Steve stared at the piles of money. He was having a hard time finding words. Finally, he said, “It’s a lot of money, Ghost…a lot. I’ll have to count it, but just on this top layer, my God, Ghost…there’s over a hundred thousand dollars, and…and…look at all the layers!”

“Is that good?” Ghost asked.

“Ghost, that is more than good. Where do you think all this came from?” Steve was genuinely puzzled. “Did your grandmother win the lottery or something? Did a rich uncle leave it to her? Is it for real…like real money? Is it stolen? did she have a side business going on, besides her potions? Did she conjure it out of thin air?”

Of course, Ghost didn’t know, or even care…as long as they had food to eat, and an occasional trip to the second-hand store, he was happy enough. They discussed what to do now. They decided to take out enough for a car…and not Terry’s old junker…and enough to get by on for a few months. That barely made a dent in the pile. Steve asked a bank employee to get an accurate count of it…he was sure he was too nervous to count right.

The banker looked astounded, when he totaled it up…Steve almost fainted. There was two million dollars, minus what he’d taken out. The banker wanted to know if he wanted to make a deposit, but Steve figured it’d be just fine for now, locked back up in the box. They’d think about what to do, later.

With the money safely locked back up, they walked out of the bank, to carry on with their ordinary, little rock ‘n roll, hippy lifestyle…and no one suspected they were really a couple of millionaires.

“This is so weird,” Steve said.

“Yeah, can we go shoppin’ now?” Ghost asked.

“Sure we can, Ghost, and I’m not even gonna get mad when you get distracted. Take all the time you want,” Steve smiled.

They did their shopping for Kinsey, and had fun doing it. Ghost got to look around as much as he wanted, and Steve picked out some things for their own use, and didn’t holler, even once. On their way out of town, they stopped at a used car place. Steve looked at all the cars, wishing his T-bird was still around, but he was anxious to have his own wheels, again.

There were a couple he liked, but chose an old caddy convertible, over a newer, sporty car…when Ghost pointed out that if they ever took another road trip, they’d be able to stretch out in the back seat better. Steve understood Ghost’s hidden meaning immediately, and since he always did like the big, older cars best, he bought it.

He paid in full, and in cash. The dealer had not paid much attention to them, there on the lot…took them for just a couple of guys wishing they could buy a car. When Steve pulled out the cash, though, he couldn’t do enough for them.

“Hah, money talks,” he said to Ghost.

“What did it say?” Ghost asked, looking confused.

“Never mind…we got the car. Now, I’m gonna drive it home. You drive Kinsey’s back to his place, and I’ll follow you.”

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

 

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 44

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 44

warning … adult content

***

After looking through all the kitchen cabinets and some more in the living room, they just stared at the mess, not knowing where else to look. Steve sat on the couch, and Ghost tried to think some more, but it wasn’t happening.

“What is it, Ghost?” Steve asked, concerned. Ghost was standing in the center of the room, his eyes closed, as tears began falling silently. He rubbed his hand over his left eye, massaging it some, a frown on his face.

“I’m just tired, Steve…and kinda feeling sad. I’m tired of thinking, I’m tired of looking for something I don’t want to find. My head hurts, and my eye hurts, and I miss my grandmother.” He was sobbing now.

“Come here,” Steve said, a catch in his own throat, to see his best friend in pain.

Ghost slowly came over to the couch, looking about ready to collapse. He sat by Steve, who gently pulled him over, so that Ghost’s fragile head was on his lap. Tenderly smoothing Ghost’s soft hair back from his forehead, he began rubbing his head for him. Ghost closed his damp eyes, the left one twitching, and tried to relax.

“I just want to have everything be normal again, Steve, and just play music and sing…that’s all,” Ghost whispered. “Just you and our music.” He took a deep shuddery breath, and more tears fell.

“I know, babe, I know. So do I…and we’re getting there. I know we are.” Steve said.

“Did I tell you about the voices?” Ghost asked.

“No, what are you talking about? Was this part of the dream you had?”

“Well, I had it again, that was in the dream, but I heard them for real once, a long time ago. Right before I left, or maybe the day I got back, or maybe both times. I can’t remember, now.”

“What did the voices say?”

Ghost shivered and said, “It was so weird. A weird spooky voice, like an echo, or in a cave, or well, I don’t know…anyway, it was scary.”

Steve waited, knowing Ghost would continue when he was ready.

“Steve, it said, ‘You’re not supposed to be here!’,” he said in a spooky sounding voice, trying to imitate what he’d heard. “What does it mean?”

Steve got chills when Ghost had said that. He was getting freaked out. “I don’t know. Was that all it said?”

“Yeah, but it was the same every time!” Ghost pulled his hair over his face, and rubbed his forehead hard. Steve had lapsed in the rubbing.

“Damn, my head hurts!” Ghost cried out.

“You want some Tylenol or something?” Steve asked.

“No, just…can you find me some willow bark extract in the back room? It’s labeled in a little blue bottle.”

“Ok, I’ll try to find it,” Steve said. He really didn’t want to go back in there, but went anyway. The house had been silent, no music playing, no tv on, so when Steve opened the back room door, he paused a second, at the doorway.

The moonlight shone in the cobwebby window, making eerie shadows in the room. The light bulb had burned out long ago, and had never been replaced. All he had was a flashlight. It didn’t help much, though, as the batteries were low.

He tiptoed in, looking at the shelves. Finally finding the blue bottle, he made his way back to the doorway, stumbling on a few old boxes that he swore weren’t there two seconds ago. As he reached the door, he thought he heard breathing, then a voice that said, ‘come back’. Steve slammed the door and ran back down the hall. Heart pounding, breathing hard, he fell onto the couch with Ghost, again.

“Here’s the stuff. Don’t ask me to ever go in there again. I think I heard your eerie voice just now.”

Ghost sat up, took the bottle and drank the contents. Steve watched him do it.

“Ewww, how can you take all these home remedies and potions?” he asked. He’d rather go to the store and buy a bottle of pills.

After swallowing the liquid, Ghost asked, “What did the voice say?”

“It said, ‘come back’, Steve shuddered.

“See, I told you…scary,” Ghost said.

Steve nodded, and would later not admit to being so scared, he had his feet up on the couch, like the boogey man might reach out from under the couch and grab him.

“Well, what now?” Steve asked. “You’re the one who knows about this kinda shit. What do we do now?”

“Calm down, Steve, it’s just a voice. Scary, but just a voice. It can’t really hurt you. I hear them all the time, every day, all my life, and I’m still here. This one was scary because of what it said to me.”

Steve was dumbfounded. He knew Ghost had always spoke to and listened to spook voices, but he’d never heard one before, didn’t even believe in such things, really. But, if this is what Ghost had to put up with all the time, all the millions of voices and thoughts of others, bombarding his brain all the time, how could Ghost not be a little crazed and distracted a lot.

“Yeah, Ghost, but that’s the first time I ever heard one…and, I didn’t like it. Maybe it’s really serious, about us finding that journal. It probably explains lots of stuff. How can you do it? How can you hear all those voices all the time?”

“I’m used to it I guess. It’s just normal. I can block most of it out, so it’s not so bad. And, I like to hear what they say.”

“How’s your headache?” Steve asked.

“It still hurts. I need to sleep, so I’m going to bed, now,” Ghost said, heading off down the hall.

“You’re just gonna leave me here with spook voices?” Steve hollered after him.

“Yeah, unless you wanna come in here with me tonight,” Ghost grinned at Steve, as Steve ran to catch up with him.

They went into the bedroom, Steve slamming the door fast.

“What’s the matter, Steve? The voices come in here with me, too. I can’t get away from them, and now, neither can you.”

Steve pushed Ghost out of the way, as he leaped onto the bed. “Don’t you ever tell anyone that I was scared, Ghost. Don’t you dare!”

Ghost just smiled. That night, they both thrashed around with bad dreams. The next morning, as sunlight streamed through the window, things did look brighter than in the dark of night. Steve had to go back to work. Ghost looked toward another long, boring day ahead of him.

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 40

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 40

warning … adult content

***

Taking a deep breath, Ghost began to unburden his mind to Kinsey.

“Kinsey, please don’t hate Steve anymore. He didn’t mean to hurt me, and I came back home, and I forgave him, and I love him…and when everyone hates him, and he’s hurt and sad about that, it’s like it hurts me, too…and…and…I love him,” Ghost whispered the last part, and looked so sad with his pleading, his face tear streaked, that Kinsey’s heart went out to him.

“Ghost, I know you love Steve. I hated what he did, but I don’t hate him. I know I’ve been hard on him, and maybe unreasonable, but I just couldn’t have him around me, reminding me…so…I guess if you can forgive him, then I can try.”

He hugged Ghost. “Y’all come over to the club when you’re ready. It’ll be cool with me, and I’ll pass the word along that everything is worked out with you two, and just let it be.”

Ghost nodded, “Can we play our music there again?”

“Yeah, that’d be good. I missed the music, and all the kids ask for y’all,” Kinsey said. “Ghost, there’s something else I need to talk to you about. I don’t know what all went on with you while you were gone, and it’s none of my business, but you did call me that time. I was really worried about you. Then, I got this in the mail a few days later. I don’t know what it means, but I have a bad feeling about it.”

He pulled out the flyers, and showed Ghost. Ghost looked at them and frowned. “You got these in the mail?”

“Yeah, I know this is the one Steve had made and put up everywhere he went, looking for you. This other one…” Kinsey tapped the flyer of Ghost and Maxy’s band with the note written on it. “Is this the guy you were singing with?”

“Yeah…” said Ghost. “For a while…but, it didn’t work out so good.”

“Were you and this Maxy together…in a relationship?” Kinsey tentatively asked.

Ghost paused a minute, remembering his time with Maxy. “Kinsey, I thought I was in love with him. It was good at first, but then, I don’t know…he got too controlling. I…I…knew it was over before I could actually leave. He took advantage of me, used me, and hurt me. I finally escaped. I just left, and came back here.”

“What do you make of this note he wrote? Do you think he’ll come looking for you?” Kinsey asked

Ghost shrugged, “I don’t know, I hope not. Guess if he does, Steve will kick his ass…and Steve hits way harder than Maxy does…oh, shit…did I just say that?” He leaned over with his hands over his face, his pale hair streaming down, and sobbed.

Kinsey was startled by Ghost’s reaction, and by what Ghost had said. “This poor kid has been through hell,” he thought. He rubbed Ghost’s back, as he tried to comfort him. “It’ll be okay…just let it all out. I’m here if you need me, and I’m sure Steve is, too,” and he meant it.

After making sure Ghost would be ok, Kinsey left. Ghost was left with his thoughts, so he tried to write them in his journal, and his lyric book. Writing always had a calming effect on him. It always helped him focus. He wasn’t much of a drinker…an occasional beer, and he did like his Scuppernong wine. He and Steve smoked weed, when they had it, but he always had his notebooks to write in…and the walls.

He’d added new entries to his wall already. It was an obsession. Steve always liked to read what he wrote. Sometimes he was a little embarrassed to let anyone see, but mostly, he didn’t mind. After writing awhile, he fell asleep on the couch, notebook open across his chest, markers, minus their tops, scattered around.

That’s where Steve found him when he came in. “Typical of Ghost,” he thought. “Hey, wake up,” Steve shook Ghost. “I’m home.”

Ghost startled awake, then stretched, and smiled. “Hey, how did it go today?”

“It went good…I didn’t blow up at anyone, didn’t cuss at anyone, and it did feel good to get back to work.”

~

They ate the potato soup Ghost had made; he told Steve he’d wanted some for so long…and it was good. Steve sensed Ghost wanted to talk about something, but didn’t push him. He’d talk when he was ready.

“Ya wanna beer, Steve?” asked Ghost, as he grabbed his bottle of wine.

“Yeah, but let’s go out back for awhile…Terry gave me some smoke.”

Back behind the house, in the woods, was the old Civil War graveyard. They’d spent many times out here, in the past. Smoking weed, drinking, and Ghost talking to the spooks, long dead. They’d been coming out here since they were kids, to sneak away from Ghost’s grandmother. They’d pretend they were explorers, or Civil war heroes, or just to talk about secrets that were too powerful to speak of in the light of day.

They knew every inch of the old graveyard, and all it’s markers. Ghost swore he could hear the souls of the moldering corpses talk to him. Scared the crap out of Steve when Ghost started in, and of course Ghost would jazz it up in a spooky voice, when he told Steve what his visions were. He had no reason to doubt. He’d seen Ghost in action when he sensed something, predicted something, and had outlandish dreams that actually did come true.

They leaned against a couple of crumbly gravestones, sipping their drinks, and passing the joint to each other…just relaxing. It was getting dark, and the moon hadn’t risen yet. Ghost’s face and hair lit up like an orb, floating alone, whenever he’d toke on the joint. Pretty eerie, Steve thought…and he wondered when the spooky stories would start.

But, when Ghost began speaking, it wasn’t about the past of long dead soldiers. It was about the future…his and Steve’s future.

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 38

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 38

warning … adult content

***

Ghost reached up to pull Steve close for a kiss, but suddenly put his hand over his eye and rubbed it.

“Damn it!” he whispered.

“What’s going on? Is something in your eye? Why is it jumping like that?”

“It’s nothing, Steve, just something that started happening. Mostly if I’m tired or stressed, or…”

“Bullshit, Ghost! You’re not telling me everything.” Steve pulled Ghost’s hand away from his eye. It was red rimmed from crying, the same as the other one. It made his blue eyes stand out even more. But, Ghost was squinching that one up, like it hurt, or the light bothered him or something.

“Don’t keep secrets from me, Ghost,” he said. “Does it hurt you?”

Ghost nodded, “Sometimes.”

“When did it start?” Steve asked.

When Ghost wouldn’t answer, Steve realized it must have been after that night, that awful night. He’d hit Ghost so hard in his face and head…more than once.

“Oh, God! No!” he cried. “It was me that did that to you.”

Ghost just nodded, and more tears fell. “Steve,” he said, softly, “that’s not all.”

Steve had a pained look in his own eyes, as he heard what Ghost said next.

“Sometimes, sometimes…not all the time, just once in awhile, Steve…I can’t even see out of it!”

Steve was breathing hard, feeling faint, or that he might throw up, maybe both, at the horrible thing he’d done. He’d ruined Ghost’s eye, and probably his brain, too. Ghost had had a crack in his skull, the woman on the mountain had told him. Then he knew he must have been the one to have broken Ghost’s tooth.

Steve lurched around the room, pacing and yelling. “Ghost, you have to get away from me. You can’t keep getting hurt by me. I don’t deserve to have anyone as good as you anywhere near me. I don’t know how you can ever trust me again. Hell, I can’t even trust myself! Here…” he said, picking up a pencil from the nearby table. “Go on, just poke out my eye, then we’ll be even. Do it, Ghost! That’s the least you can do…and it’s still not enough!”

He kept pacing and ranting around the room. Then, he saw Ghost, cowering on the bed, as far back away from him as he could get. He was pulling at his hair and screaming something at him. He stopped his own noise. He’d been so loud, he’d not even heard Ghost.

Ghost was screaming over and over, “Stop it…stop it…stop it!” He looked out of his head, with fright.

“I’ve done it again,” Steve thought. He fell down on his knees and cried. It seemed forever he stayed there. Dimly, he was aware of Ghost’s screams growing quieter, until they stopped altogether. This was too much. He didn’t know how they could work this out, didn’t know if they could even survive each other. They were killing each other emotionally, just as much as physically. Maybe this would be the end…maybe it should be the end.

But, how could he go on without Ghost? He knew he couldn’t…he couldn’t. Steve’s thoughts broke through to Ghost’s mind…and he ached for Steve, for himself, but he knew it would not be the end. It would never be the end. He had to do something to convince Steve of this. He knew Steve was skeptical of his innate knowledge. He always needed proof that the things he told him were real, even if he couldn’t see it.

Ghost slowly eased off the bed, and went to Steve. He gently helped him over to the bed, sitting on his knees in front of him, on the floor. He looked up into Steve’s tear streaked face.

“I love you, Steve. Don’t ever ask me to hurt you again. I need you to always be here, with me…and I know…look at me, Steve! I know we are supposed to be together. We have been in the past, in the present, and will be in the future. I’ve known this since I first saw you.

I recognized you as my forever soul mate. Don’t think this is just some crazy talk from your weird friend, Steve. It’s real. It’s so real…” and Ghost searched Steve’s eyes to see if he understood, that he’d somehow gotten through to him.

Somehow, Steve did believe him. They knew it in their hearts, that even through their ups and downs, their misunderstandings, their fights, and there would be some, that ultimately their very souls were to be together for eternity.

Ghost sighed, and said simply…”I need you, Steve. Please say you need me, too. Right now, Steve. I need you so much.”

Steve grabbed him in a fierce hug, and mumbled into his soft hair, “I need you to…oh, Ghost, I need you, too.”

Steve raised Ghost’s head, kissing him deeply. He took Ghost’s hands, pulling him up from the floor, then removing the soft shirt he wore. Ghost shivered at Steve’s touch. Steve began kissing Ghost’s shoulder, then worked his way down his left arm, the inside of his elbow, his wrist…and then he saw for the first time, his own name tattooed there. He looked at Ghost questioningly. “What? When?”

Ghost smiled and said, “I wanted one to go with yours.”

Steve kissed Ghost’s wrist again and murmured, “You’re so crazy, and I adore you.”

He kissed Ghost’s palm, letting his tongue trace circles on it, then took Ghost’s fingers into his mouth and sucked each in turn. Ghost was breathing heavily, his eyes closed, letting Steve do whatever he wanted…loving whatever Steve did to him.

As Steve took Ghost’s ring finger into his mouth, he kept bringing it in and out in slow motion, deeper and wetter with each movement. Almost breaking the spell they were under, Steve began to ask Ghost about the silver ring he wore. He’d not had it before, and Steve knew it must have come from someone else.

“Did your lover give you this ring, Ghost? Who was he? Was it that guy that you sang with out in L. A.?”

Ghost didn’t say anything, but tensed up.

“It’s ok, Ghost,” Steve continued, still speaking softly, not sounding mad. “I know you whored around out there. You had to do whatever it took to survive. How many more did you have to…? Was this one special? Did he love you, did you love him?

I don’t care, Ghost. I fell in love with you the minute I saw you. I’m sure others do, too. I don’t blame you for getting whatever you needed from him. I’m just glad you came back to me.”

He continued to wet Ghost’s finger, until he had the ring in his mouth. He looked at for a second, then threw it across the room, where it pinged off the window, a shiny ray of silver, as it caught the sunlight.

“You won’t need it anymore, Ghost. I’ll get you a better one.”

He looked at the silver necklace Ghost was wearing, the one with the little key. Taking hold of the chain, Steve yanked hard, breaking it, and leaving a red mark on Ghost’s neck. “You won’t need this either.”

Then, Steve thought to himself, “Oh, no. What am I doing? I can never shut up.” He looked into Ghost’s face, hoping he wouldn’t see anger.

Ghost was trembling, there in Steve’s arms, his eyes still closed. He breathed in small gasps of the sage scented air. He had the weird feeling that he was in the present with Steve, and the feeling he was in some place wonderful…some place called ecstasy…if there was such a place. He felt free, soaring on Steve’s love for him, and his love for Steve.

Tears fell from his eyes now, as he whispered in Steve’s ear, “Steve…I need you. I need you right now. I am yours. I’ll always be yours. Please, Steve, please. Take me now!”

And they lay together again in each other’s arms, bodies, and souls.

***

***

Next part coming soon!

***

Thanks for visiting! Peace ☮️

© 2020 BS

***

This is a work of “fan fiction” based on the novel, “Lost Souls” by Poppy Z. Brite. All credit for the original characters, places, and some backstory mentions, belong to Ms. Brite and her publishing affiliates. Only newly introduced characters, places, and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination. Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them.

All songs included in this work will be solely owned by the original performers/writers and will be credited. Creative license is taken in including them in this story.

No harm is intended toward author, musicians, or people and situations to whom there may be a resemblance.

warning      warning      warning      warning

The content herein is rated by me as being at the high end of MA (Mature Audience). It includes strong language, violence, sexual themes, including same sex pairings, religious themes, and fantasy horror.