Two Souls: Into the Fire # 288

Warning … adult content

***

Steve and Melody continued to talk, as Steve kept driving down the highway toward Missing Mile. Ghost was still asleep in the back seat of the van. Then, as they came to the city limits, Steve asked, “Do you want to come back to our house for the night, or go back to the Yew?”

Melody yawned. “Oh, I think I’ll go back to the Yew. Linda may want some help with the kids, so you can drop me off there.”

Nodding, Steve drove a few more blocks, then pulled up behind the Yew. He helped her carry in the things she’d bought at the grocery store, said a quick hello to Kinsey and Linda, then he and Ghost were finally on the way home.

“We home yet?” Ghost asked, not bothering to open his eyes.

“Will be in a few minutes. Get yourself awake, dude, we have to carry in all this shit we bought. I ain’t doing it all by myself.”

Turning into the rutted, dirt road that led to their house, Steve sighed. He was ready to get out and relax awhile. Ghost sat up straighter, as they pulled into the gravel driveway.

“Hey, Terry’s here,” Steve said, seeing Terry’s old pickup parked in front of the house.

“Cool, he can help carry stuff in,” Ghost said.

Going inside the house, they found Terry sprawled out on the old couch, watching a movie, and smoking a joint…one of many, from the looks of it. He looked up, his eyes bleary.

“Hey, dudes, y’all back?” he asked, drawling out the words.

Ghost plopped down on the couch, squishing in next to Terry, and took a hit. He offered it to Steve.

“Later…we have to unload the van,” Steve said.

“Hey, ya got any munchies out there, ’cause there sure aren’t any in here,” Terry said.

“Yep, but if you want any, you have to help carry ’em in,” Steve said. He went back outside to get the first load of grocery bags.

Terry looked at Ghost, and they both burst out laughing. “I think he means it,” Terry said.

Ghost nodded, then got up to go help. Terry tried to, but didn’t actually make it up off the couch. He went back to watching the movie. Steve and Ghost made several trips in and out of the house, until all the groceries were brought in, and piled up on the kitchen table. The counter tops were full of bags, too. They took a minute to just look at it all.

Both of them started to say something at the same time…

“I’m not gonna…” Ghost said, while Steve was saying, “I don’t want to…”

Shoulders sagging, Ghost did find the milk, cheese, and eggs, to put in the refrigerator. Steve grabbed the meat he’d bought, and put it in the freezer. Then, blowing a strand of hair from his eyes, Ghost went back to the living room. Steve took a package of mini-doughnuts out, for them all to snack on.

“Here, Terry, pass them around,” Steve said, then lit up his own smoke. Ghost had sat on the floor, and took hits when Steve passed it to him. The afternoon stretched on like this, the earlier fright with the deer and the omen forgotten for the time being.

They were enjoying themselves, laughing and making comments about the movie, quoting lines. They’d all seen this one many times. Steve had brought in beers for Terry and himself, and gave Ghost his bottle of Scuppernong. As the movie was almost over, they heard a car pulling up in the driveway, crunching over the gravel. Steve got up to look out the screen door.

“It’s Linda and Kinsey,” he said. Opening the door for them, he stood aside, as they walked in. “Welcome, welcome to this humble abode,” he said, then started laughing. He draped his arm over Linda’s shoulder, breathing into her face, as he said, “Hi, sister.” She shrugged out of his hold.

“You stink,” Linda said, making a face. “We came to get the van; where are the keys?”

Steve had sat back down on the couch. “They’re in the van. Where else would they be?”

“Oh, okay,” Linda said. She still wasn’t used to people not locking things up around here.

Kinsey had gotten a beer, and was leaning on the kitchen door frame, watching the others. Terry was too stoned to move, staring into space, and Ghost had already passed out on the floor. He somehow was still holding the wine bottle upright.

Shaking his head, Kinsey was thinking that these were his best friends, and what a motley crew they were. Finished with his beer, he moved toward the door. “I’ll be going home, now,” he said. “Are you staying awhile, Linda?”

“Nope, I’ll be right behind you,” she said. “Steve, y’all gonna be okay? Do you need me to stay?”

“No, we’re fine, go on home,” Steve said.

She bent down, giving Steve a hug. “Love ya, brother,” she said, then stepping over Ghost, she left with Kinsey.

“You staying over?” Steve asked Terry.

“Um, yeah…don’t think I could make it home.” He leaned back on the couch and stretched. “We gonna watch another movie?”

“Maybe later,” Steve said. “I have to put all that stuff up in there.” Reaching out with his foot, he nudged Ghost. “Hey, Ghost, wake up. We have to put all that shit up.”

Ghost mumbled something, and almost turned over the wine bottle. Steve managed to grab it, before it spilled.

“C’mon, get up and help me,” Steve said, nudging him again.

“Stop kicking me,” Ghost slurred.

“Well, get up then.” He stood up, stepped over Ghost, and went into the kitchen.

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 284

Warning … adult content

***

Linda stirred three teaspoons of sugar into the hot coffee she was going to bring out to Ghost.

“Come on,” she said to Melody.

They walked through the living room, and out to the front porch, the screen door slamming behind them.

“Here, Ghost, drink this. It’ll calm you down.” She handed Ghost the mug, and he gulped half of it right down, not waiting for it to cool.

“Ahh, thanks Linda,” he said.

Melody was watching from just in front of the door. She’d not come any farther out. Ghost noticed her hanging back, and knew she was upset, and a bit fearful.

“I didn’t mean to scare you, Melody.” Ghost looked up at Steve. “Tell her, Steve. I never mean to, it just happens.”

“Do you do this a lot?” Melody asked.

“Yeah, but I don’t plan on it.”

“Are you gonna find out what it was this time?” Steve asked.

Ghost shrugged. “It will be more clear later, when it wants to reveal itself.” He drank more of his coffee, now feeling he was done talking about the vision he’d had.” The others were wanting to hear more, though, but the only thoughts Ghost was picking up on were Melody’s. He didn’t want to. He didn’t like what he was hearing from her.

He tried not to stare at Melody, as he was concentrating on what she was thinking, but she was staring at him, and the look on her face was scaring him. He kept sending reassuring thoughts to her, but it was hard getting through, now. Her own thoughts were too loud. She seemed to be afraid of him…wary. She was overwhelmed at all the new people, ideas, and weirdness that she’d been exposed to the last week or so, since meeting Ghost, and his…now her family. She was surprised that it felt she’d known these people a long time, but a short time, also.

“Melody?” Ghost said, aloud. “I’m not…stop saying it.”

“I can’t,” she said, then ran back inside the house.

Frowning at Ghost’s and Melody’s sudden outburst, Steve asked, “What’s the matter with her, now?”

“I’ll go see,” Linda said, and followed Melody inside.

“Well? What’s the deal,” Steve asked Ghost. “What did you want her to stop saying?”

Ghost looked confused. “She was saying I’m crazy and scary, and why did she even have to meet us, and she wished she’d never met any of us.”

“Damn, I thought she liked us,” Steve said.

“Why would she say that?” Ghost asked. “Why now? I don’t understand.”

Steve could see Ghost truly seemed bewildered. He never seemed to remember that he had a way of appearing to others as strange, and yes, a bit crazy. It was just normal for him…he was who he was, but it took people awhile to get used to him.

“She’s just getting to see us the way we are at home. The traveling and all was fun, and exciting, and new. It’s just sinking in that we are her real family now, and there’s no going back, now that she knows.” Steve said, trying to explain, hoping this was the truth, and this was all that it was.

“I want her to like us, not be scared of us…of me…” Ghost said. “I don’t mean to be scary. And, she wanted me to show her how to talk to the spirits.”

“I know, Ghost,” Steve said. “It just got a little too real for her all of a sudden. She can’t help what her thoughts are. And, she didn’t actually say any of that out loud.”

“Oh, yeah…but I heard them real loud.” Ghost sighed, and rubbed his face. “Sometimes I wish I didn’t hear things.”

Steve didn’t have an answer for that, so he said, “Why don’t you go in there and talk to her?”

“About what?”

Steve rolled his eyes. “About what we just talked about. Show her you’re not scary…weird, yes…but not scary. She don’t need to feel afraid of you, I mean, you’re twins, for God’s sake. Don’t even have to talk. Just do that mind meld thing you do. I don’t know.”

Ghost made a face at Steve. “Mind meld thing?”

Steve shrugged. “Yeah…now go on in there.”

Ghost went to the door and peered in through the screen. “They’re not in there.”

Steve just pointed to the door, giving Ghost a look.

Ghost went in. He could hear Linda and Melody talking in the kitchen. He sidled in, poured himself another mug of coffee, and sat at the table. He nervously stirred sugar into it, making the spoon clink on the cup.

Linda had stopped talking, as she saw him come in. It was an awkward silence, that she felt needed to be broken. “You two need to talk,” she said, then left them there, as she went out to join Steve, on the front porch. Ghost was on one end of the table, Melody was on the other.

“Well, they talking?” Steve asked, as Linda came outside.

“Nope, not when I left.”

After a couple of minutes spent rocking back and forth on the swing, Steve asked, “You think she’ll fit in here?”

Linda was a bit surprised by the question. “Why wouldn’t she? She’s family.”

Steve shrugged. “I know, but I get the same damn feeling that I get from Ghost…that she could just up and disappear at any time.”

Linda nodded. “Oh, yeah, I see what you mean. I kind of feel it too, at least about her. She seems a bit flighty.”

“Um-hmm, that’s it,” Steve said. “She should at least give us a chance before taking off, if she does.” He closed his eyes, shaking his head. “God help Ghost, if she does take off. He’d be a total wreck. He’s always wanted to find some kind of relative, and she looks to be the only one he has.”

Linda looked worried. “We have to make sure she sticks around, then.”

“Yep,” Steve agreed.

~

Inside, at the table, Ghost took a drink of his hot coffee, just as Melody spoke, startling him so, that he spilled half of it onto the table. “Shit, you scared me,” he blurted out.

Melody giggled. “I’m sorry.” She ran to get a towel. Ghost watched, as she mopped up the spill.

“I don’t want you to be scared of me. I’m sorry if I do crazy things, and I never mean to.”

Melody sat back down. “I know, and I didn’t mean what I said out there.” She put her hand over his. “I’m just trying to take in everything that’s happened to me, since I met y’all. I’m really glad you found me, and that we’re twins, and I have a for real family.”

“Me too,” Ghost said. “I always wanted to find someone, but never thought it would happen. Are you mad at me?”

“Mad? No, are you?”

“No.”

Melody smiled. “Then can we start over?”

Ghost nodded. “Yes.”

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 280

Warning … adult content

***

Ghost took his cat, Spirit, from Trevor. He didn’t even mind, when Spirit licked his face, and batted his paws into his hair, getting all tangled up, he was so happy to hug Spirit again.

Trevor was trying not to stare at Melody. She was doing her best not to stare at him.

“You look like Ghost,” Trevor said. “Where did you come from?”

Melody smiled. “They found me. I’m Melody, Ghost’s twin sister,” she said, finally finding her voice.

“Cool…I’m Trevor. I draw things.”

Steve rolled his eyes, again, at this awkward exchange. It was getting to be too much for him to take in. “Okay, you got your cat, Ghost, let’s go home.” He pulled out his wallet, and handed Zack $500.00.

“Oh, no…we did it as a favor…no need…” Zack said.

“Take it,” Steve said, thrusting the bills at him. “We appreciate that you watched out for Spirit while we were gone.”

Zack nodded, as he stuffed the money into his pocket. He knew they really did need the money.

“Ghost, get in the car; we gotta go.”

Ghost looked up from murmuring to the cat. “He says y’all took good care of him. So, thank you.”

“He’s a great cat. We had lots of fun playing with him,” Trevor said.

“Catch y’all later,” Steve said, going out the door, followed by Melody, and Ghost. As they drove back to the Yew, Melody held Spirit on her lap. She loved cats, but was never allowed to have one.

At the club, they helped Melody get settled into her room upstairs, then went to find Kinsey again.

“We’re heading home, Kinsey,” Steve said.

“Okay, guess we’ll be fine here. Get some rest,” Kinsey said. “Oh, Terry’s been out to your place, off and on, to make sure it’s all ok, and to air it out. Your house should be just fine.”

“Wait, Steve,” Linda said, before they left. “Take the van. No need to take the U-Haul out there.” She handed Steve the keys. “Whenever you get up and about in the morning, come pick us up, and we’ll ride out to your house for awhile.”

“Will do, Sis,” Steve said, giving her a hug, then he and Ghost were leaving. “Later, y’all.”

~

“Ok, y’all make yourselves at home,” Kinsey said. “I’ve got business to take care of.”

“We will,” Linda said. “I’m going to get the kids in the shower, then myself. It’s been a long day.” Melody agreed that she’d be doing the same.

“I’m really wanting to go see their house, tomorrow,” she told Linda.

“It’s a bit strange, but you’ll like it,” Linda said, and laughed. “Come on kids, shower time.” She went into their room, closing the door.

Melody waited a few minutes. She stood at the railing, overlooking the club. She took it all in, at least what she could see, since it was dimly lit in the far corners. “I’m home…I’m really home…” she thought.

The club was closed for that night. Kinsey was catching up on bookkeeping, so it was a quiet evening for them all. Melody peeked into Linda’s room to say good-night.

“I’m right here next door to you, and Kinsey’s apartment is just down the hall, so if you need anything, just come on in.”

“I will, thanks,” Melody said.

“I imagine all this is coming at you pretty fast. You know, everything that has happened,” Linda said. “They are all nice people…a bit strange, but don’t worry. We’re family.” Linda tried to reassure Melody.

“It is a bit overwhelming,” Melody said, then yawned. “I’m glad you’re all my family. Good-night.” She went into her room, leaving on only the bathroom light, and tried to sleep, but her mind kept going over all she’d been a part of these last few days.

~

Steve drove down the familiar road to their house. He was glad to be home, and so tired of driving. Ghost cuddled Spirit, and as they pulled into the driveway, he said, “Home…we’re finally here.”

At the door, Ghost paused to sense the atmosphere inside. “It’s clear,” he told Steve. “Just Terry’s been in.” He and Steve went in, and could tell that Terry had spent at least one night there.

“He never cleans up his mess,” Steve said, as he looked at the half smoked joints in the ashtray, and a couple of beer cans on the coffee table.

“Good ‘ol Terry,” Ghost said. Spirit prowled around, checking things out.

“I’m leaving it all until tomorrow,” Steve said. “Right now, I’m getting in the shower, and going to bed. I’m beat.”

Ghost checked out the kitchen, looking for cat food. He found a can, and gave Spirit a bowl of it. In the refrigerator, he found a six-pack of beer, and some expired lunch meat. Making a face, he closed the door, fast. He went on to his bed room, finding it just as he’d left it. Grabbing a pair of soft, jersey, drawstring pants, he started to change into them, but decided instead to take a shower first, too. Steve was taking forever, though.

He went on into the bathroom, and eased himself into the shower with Steve. Steve smiled, having known Ghost would join him.

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 279

***

Kinsey jumped up from his chair, when he saw Steve and Ghost come into the office. A big smile creased his face.

“Hey, Kinsey,” Ghost said, “we’re here. Surprise!” He ran over to give Kinsey a hug. “We have another surprise, too.”

Kinsey was taking it all in. His quiet office had suddenly become a noisy, people filled room. It felt like a party, already. Stevie and Mandy were running around hollering, and Linda was shushing them. Melody was hanging back, trying to be inconspicuous, and Ghost was babbling on and on, whether anyone was listening, or not. Steve just leaned against the wall, smiling, but looking tired.

“Well, Steve, you got ’em all back, safe and sound,” Kinsey said.

“Um-hmm, and it wasn’t easy,” Steve said, and sighed.

“Yeah, I can imagine,” Kinsey said. “You look beat.”

Steve nodded. “I think I need to sleep for about a year, then maybe I’ll feel okay.”

Kinsey watched the kids for a minute. “What’s the story…Ghost’s face? What happened?” He really looked at the black eye and swollen mouth.

“A freak accident,” Steve said. He didn’t want to get into it right now. He knew Kinsey would never fully trust him again, anyway. No need to go into details at this point.

“Okay…” Kinsey said, as he raised his eyebrows. “Then, who’s the girl? She looks the spitting image of Ghost.”

Nodding, Steve said, “I’ll let Ghost tell ya. Hey, Ghost, c’mere,” he said, getting Ghost’s attention. “You gotta introduce Kinsey to…”

“Oh yeah,” Ghost said. He ran over to the couch, where Melody was sitting with Linda. Kinsey and Steve moved a little closer. “You gotta actually meet Kinsey,” he said, grabbing Melody’s hand, helping her up. “Kinsey, this here is Melody, my sister.” He laughed. “We found her, and we didn’t even know we was looking for her.”

“Well, what do ya know. Nice to meet you, Melody. I’m Kinsey.”

“Hey, Kinsey,” Melody said, a bit shy now. “It was a big surprise to me, too.”

Shaking his head, Kinsey said, “I’m trying to wrap my head around it. Sorry if I stare, but you two are so much alike.”

“That’s ’cause we’re twins, Kinsey,” Ghost said. “We’re supposed to look alike”

Kinsey laughed. “You’re right, and you’ve got to tell me the whole story. It’s amazing. I mean, nobody knew.”

“We’ll tell ya everything, but right now we need to get Linda, Melody, and the kids settled in,” Steve said.

“Of course. Her room is ready and waiting, and it’s no problem opening up one for Melody,” Kinsey said.

“Thanks, man,” Steve said. “You want…I mean, how much, well, all the stuff in the U-Haul. What should we do with it for now?”

“Oh, well, bring in what you want. We’ll put it in the other empty rooms for now. I was just thinking of what they need for today, or the next few days?” Kinsey looked at Linda.

“We can do that,” Linda said, “but, Steve, don’t you have to turn in the U-Haul soon?”

“Yeah, but not today. Why don’t you tell me what you want out of there, for now. The rest can be situated tomorrow.”

Linda named off several things she and the kids would need right away, and Melody did the same for herself. Some items were from the U-Haul, some were from the van.

“Come on, Ghost, let’s start hauling it in.” They all went outside, and began unloading. Even Stevie and Mandy were helping, by bringing in their toys.

Trudging up and down the stairs a few times got most of the essentials. “That’s enough for now,” Linda said, as she and the others went into the office, collapsing into chairs and the onto the couch. Kinsey brought in more coffee and some juice for everyone.

“This is so nice of you, Kinsey, to let me stay here,” Melody said. “I plan on getting a job. I don’t want to be a free-loader.”

“Aww, don’t worry about it…take your time settling in,” Kinsey said.

After a little while, Linda suggested they go get something to eat. It had been a long time since any of them had eaten anything, but snack foods.

“I can make us something,” Kinsey said.

“No, you’ve done enough,” she said. “I know there’s a diner here, let’s just all go over there.” they all agreed with this.

Ghost and Steve rode with Kinsey, and they all met at the diner. Their favorite waitress was there, and was happy to see them. Introductions were made for Melody, then they all ate until they couldn’t hold any more.

“I want to go get Spirit, now,” Ghost said. “Then I want to go home.”

“Okay, me too,” Steve said.

Kinsey drove them around the corner to Zack and Trevor’s house. This time Melody rode with them, as Linda and the kids went back to the Yew.

“You’ll get to see Spirit,” Ghost said. “I missed him so much…and Zack and Trevor, too.”

“So you missed them, too?” Steve asked.

“Yeah, but not as much,” Ghost said.

Kinsey pulled up into the driveway, and they all got out. Ghost was the first one to the door. He knocked, and waited. He knocked again. “Maybe they’re not home,” Steve said.

“They’re in there,” Ghost said. “they’re in the kitchen, cooking, and…” he concentrated for a minute. “…and they have the music on.” He banged harder on the door.

Finally the door opened. Trevor was surprised, and smiled. “Hey, you’re back. Sorry, almost didn’t hear you knocking. Y’all come on in. Hey, Zack, guess who’s here?” As he turned toward the kitchen, his long ginger hair swung around his bare back.

Melody couldn’t help but stare, open mouthed. Ghost caught her thoughts. He smiled his crooked smile. “They’re together,” he said.

She swallowed. “Uh, I know…but, damn.”

Zack came out into the living room. “Hey, it’s good to see y’all.” He hugged Ghost and Steve. Noticing Melody, he did a double take. “Who’s this lovely lady that looks like you, Ghost?” he asked.

“That’s my twin sister, Melody,” Ghost said. “This here is Zack.”

Zack took Melody’s hand and kissed the back of it. “Enchante, ma Cherie,” he said in his New Orleans accented voice.

Melody giggled. “Thank you. I can tell you’re from New Orleans. I’ve lived near there forever, up until a few days ago.”

“Ahh, it is a pleasure, and you are right,” Zack said.

Steve, watching this exchange, just rolled his eyes.

“Where’s Spirit? I come to get him and take him home,” Ghost asked.

“Here he is,” Trevor said. He was carrying the sleepy cat in his arms.

Ghost reached out for him, and Spirit meowed long and loud, happy to see Ghost again.

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 279

***

Kinsey jumped up from his chair, when he saw Steve and Ghost come into the office. A big smile creased his face.

“Hey, Kinsey,” Ghost said, “we’re here. Surprise!” He ran over to give Kinsey a hug. “We have another surprise, too.”

Kinsey was taking it all in. His quiet office had suddenly become a noisy, people filled room. It felt like a party, already. Stevie and Mandy were running around hollering, and Linda was shushing them. Melody was hanging back, trying to be inconspicuous, and Ghost was babbling on and on, whether anyone was listening, or not. Steve just leaned against the wall, smiling, but looking tired.

“Well, Steve, you got ’em all back, safe and sound,” Kinsey said.

“Um-hmm, and it wasn’t easy,” Steve said, and sighed.

“Yeah, I can imagine,” Kinsey said. “You look beat.”

Steve nodded. “I think I need to sleep for about a year, then maybe I’ll feel okay.”

Kinsey watched the kids for a minute. “What’s the story…Ghost’s face? What happened?” He really looked at the black eye and swollen mouth.

“A freak accident,” Steve said. He didn’t want to get into it right now. He knew Kinsey would never fully trust him again, anyway. No need to go into details at this point.

“Okay…” Kinsey said, as he raised his eyebrows. “Then, who’s the girl? She looks the spitting image of Ghost.”

Nodding, Steve said, “I’ll let Ghost tell ya. Hey, Ghost, c’mere,” he said, getting Ghost’s attention. “You gotta introduce Kinsey to…”

“Oh yeah,” Ghost said. He ran over to the couch, where Melody was sitting with Linda. Kinsey and Steve moved a little closer. “You gotta actually meet Kinsey,” he said, grabbing Melody’s hand, helping her up. “Kinsey, this here is Melody, my sister.” He laughed. “We found her, and we didn’t even know we was looking for her.”

“Well, what do ya know. Nice to meet you, Melody. I’m Kinsey.”

“Hey, Kinsey,” Melody said, a bit shy now. “It was a big surprise to me, too.”

Shaking his head, Kinsey said, “I’m trying to wrap my head around it. Sorry if I stare, but you two are so much alike.”

“That’s ’cause we’re twins, Kinsey,” Ghost said. “We’re supposed to look alike”

Kinsey laughed. “You’re right, and you’ve got to tell me the whole story. It’s amazing. I mean, nobody knew.”

“We’ll tell ya everything, but right now we need to get Linda, Melody, and the kids settled in,” Steve said.

“Of course. Her room is ready and waiting, and it’s no problem opening up one for Melody,” Kinsey said.

“Thanks, man,” Steve said. “You want…I mean, how much, well, all the stuff in the U-Haul. What should we do with it for now?”

“Oh, well, bring in what you want. We’ll put it in the other empty rooms for now. I was just thinking of what they need for today, or the next few days?” Kinsey looked at Linda.

“We can do that,” Linda said, “but, Steve, don’t you have to turn in the U-Haul soon?”

“Yeah, but not today. Why don’t you tell me what you want out of there, for now. The rest can be situated tomorrow.”

Linda named off several things she and the kids would need right away, and Melody did the same for herself. Some items were from the U-Haul, some were from the van.

“Come on, Ghost, let’s start hauling it in.” They all went outside, and began unloading. Even Stevie and Mandy were helping, by bringing in their toys.

Trudging up and down the stairs a few times got most of the essentials. “That’s enough for now,” Linda said, as she and the others went into the office, collapsing into chairs and the onto the couch. Kinsey brought in more coffee and some juice for everyone.

“This is so nice of you, Kinsey, to let me stay here,” Melody said. “I plan on getting a job. I don’t want to be a free-loader.”

“Aww, don’t worry about it…take your time settling in,” Kinsey said.

After a little while, Linda suggested they go get something to eat. It had been a long time since any of them had eaten anything, but snack foods.

“I can make us something,” Kinsey said.

“No, you’ve done enough,” she said. “I know there’s a diner here, let’s just all go over there.” they all agreed with this.

Ghost and Steve rode with Kinsey, and they all met at the diner. Their favorite waitress was there, and was happy to see them. Introductions were made for Melody, then they all ate until they couldn’t hold any more.

“I want to go get Spirit, now,” Ghost said. “Then I want to go home.”

“Okay, me too,” Steve said.

Kinsey drove them around the corner to Zack and Trevor’s house. This time Melody rode with them, as Linda and the kids went back to the Yew.

“You’ll get to see Spirit,” Ghost said. “I missed him so much…and Zack and Trevor, too.”

“So you missed them, too?” Steve asked.

“Yeah, but not as much,” Ghost said.

Kinsey pulled up into the driveway, and they all got out. Ghost was the first one to the door. He knocked, and waited. He knocked again. “Maybe they’re not home,” Steve said.

“They’re in there,” Ghost said. “they’re in the kitchen, cooking, and…” he concentrated for a minute. “…and they have the music on.” He banged harder on the door.

Finally the door opened. Trevor was surprised, and smiled. “Hey, you’re back. Sorry, almost didn’t hear you knocking. Y’all come on in. Hey, Zack, guess who’s here?” As he turned toward the kitchen, his long ginger hair swung around his bare back.

Melody couldn’t help but stare, open mouthed. Ghost caught her thoughts. He smiled his crooked smile. “They’re together,” he said.

She swallowed. “Uh, I know…but, damn.”

Zack came out into the living room. “Hey, it’s good to see y’all.” He hugged Ghost and Steve. Noticing Melody, he did a double take. “Who’s this lovely lady that looks like you, Ghost?” he asked.

“That’s my twin sister, Melody,” Ghost said. “This here is Zack.”

Zack took Melody’s hand and kissed the back of it. “Enchante, ma Cherie,” he said in his New Orleans accented voice.

Melody giggled. “Thank you. I can tell you’re from New Orleans. I’ve lived near there forever, up until a few days ago.”

“Ahh, it is a pleasure, and you are right,” Zack said.

Steve, watching this exchange, just rolled his eyes.

“Where’s Spirit? I come to get him and take him home,” Ghost asked.

“Here he is,” Trevor said. He was carrying the sleepy cat in his arms.

Ghost reached out for him, and Spirit meowed long and loud, happy to see Ghost again.

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 278

Warning … adult content

***

It was a tight squeeze, but everyone managed to get into the van. Linda started the engine, and pulled out of the police station parking lot, to head back up the mountain to the cabins. They needed to get their belongings, and the U-Haul, then settle up with the manager for the damages.

Stevie kept asking his uncle Steve what happened. “Not now, Stevie,” Linda said, trying to shush him.

“You wanna know what happened? I’ll tell ya,” Steve said, still angry.

Linda gave him a warning look. “Steve, no…they don’t need to hear it, and Stevie, stop asking questions…it’s grown-up stuff. We’re getting the U-Haul, and going back on the road.”

“Damn right we are,” Steve said. He slammed his fist down onto the arm rest, making them all jump. Ghost had laid his head over on Melody’s shoulder, and when Steve startled them, he gripped her arm hard, then began sobbing.

Linda took a deep breath. This is a waking nightmare…

~

Up at the visitor’s center, word had spread among residents and employees. The place was abuzz with speculation. As Linda parked the van, she could see people standing on the porch, and others peering through the windows.

“Steve, my suggestion is we don’t need to tell anyone anything. You and Ghost just go straight to the U-Haul and leave. I will give the manager a check, then I’ll follow you down. I’m not in any mood to be talking to anyone, even if they say they are your friends. Deal?”

“”Deal,” Steve said. “I’ll be damned if I’m gonna explain anything to anyone here.”

“Okay, ready?” she asked.

Steve nodded. “Ghost, let’s go. Don’t look at anybody, don’t talk to anybody. Just get in, and we leave.” He opened his door, and the passenger back door, to let Ghost out. They were on the far side of the U-Haul, so the onlookers didn’t have a view of them. As soon as they were in, he started it up, and pulled out.

Linda got out, alone, and walked to the office. She heard people calling out to her, but she didn’t stop or look their way. Inside, she faced the manager at his desk.

“How much do we owe for the damages?” she asked.

He told her a figure, and she doubled it, then handed him the check. Raising his eyebrows, he asked, “Are they gonna be okay?”

Linda nodded. “Yes, they’ll be fine. It was an accident.”

“I know, and we do care about them, you know. Sorry I yelled earlier.”

“Thank you,” Linda said. “They care about y’all, too. You’ve all been very kind to them. They’ve already left, though. They’re a bit shook up, and embarrassed about the whole incident.”

“Y’all are always welcome here…no hard feelings. I mean that,” the manager said.

Linda nodded. “I’ll let them know.” She turned, and went out the door, straight to the van. Inside, she felt she could breathe again. After a minute, she pulled out of the parking lot, and wound her way back down the twisty mountain road. On the outskirts of the little town, she saw the U-Haul pulled over, waiting for her. She pulled in behind it, then called on her cell phone to Steve.

“It’s all taken care of. Let’s get out of here,” she said.

~

They drove for miles. No one was saying anything, in either car. Even the kids weren’t complaining that they’d had no breakfast. They were all feeling a pall hanging over them. Exhaustion was showing on their faces, yet determination was keeping them going. The tall pines on both sides of the road seemed to loom over them, casting shadows on the road. The sun was somewhere above the tree tops, but here on the road, it was still, and dark.

As they passed the road that led up to the little community where Ghost had come from, he showed a bit of interest.

“That’s the road…” he began.

“We’re not stopping,” Steve said, and pushed the accelerator down harder.

“It smells like home,” Ghost said, smiling as best he could. “Can’t you smell the ocean, Steve?”

“Yeah, won’t be long,” Steve said.

“Where we going?” Ghost asked.

“Huh? We’re going home,” Steve said, glancing over at Ghost.

“I know, but to our house, or to the Yew? Or to Zack’s to get Spirit?”

“Oh…uh…the Yew, I guess,” Steve said. “Linda is staying there for now. Maybe Kinsey will have something to eat. I’m about to starve.”

“Me, too,” Ghost said. “I love home. I don’t want to go anywhere else, again.”

“You got that right. Hey, look…there it is, straight ahead.” Missing Mile was in their sights.

Both of them were grinning. The bad mood had lifted. “Does he know we’re here today?” Ghost asked.

“I don’t know, I haven’t talked to him,” Steve said. “Too late, now…we’re here.” He parked the U-Haul in the back parking lot of the Sacred Yew. Linda did the same, and they all got out, stretching their legs.

“It’s done…we’re here. Let’s go in and surprise Kinsey,” Steve said. He opened the back door. The familiar atmosphere of the club washed over them. It was dim in the hallway, and a wonderful smell of coffee was in the air. A light was on in the office, so they walked over, and Steve opened the door.

There was Kinsey, coffee cup in hand, leaning back in his office chair. As the door opened, he looked up in surprise. “What the hell? Y’all are back!”

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 273

Warning … adult content

***

Steve kept driving toward the mountains, but needed to stop for gas one more time, so stopped at a little convenience store in the next town they came to.

“Have we been here before?” Ghost asked, as he looked around. They had gotten out of the U-Haul to stretch their legs a bit.

Steve was shaking the stiffness from his legs, as he pumped gas. “Yeah, we were here before. We played that bar one night. You remember, it’s where somebody broke our windows in the car, and slashed our tires.” He frowned at the memory.

“Oh, yeah, this isn’t a good place,” Ghost said. “Hurry up so we can get outta here.” He climbed back into the truck, and locked the door.

Steve finished filling up the gas tank, and went inside to pay. Linda, Melody, and the kids were already in the van, waiting.

“You know what?” Melody asked. “This seems so familiar. I think I was here, and it may be where I saw Ghost and Steve for the first time.” She thought for a minute. “It feels the same, and the people at the show were mean.”

“Mean…how?” Linda asked.

“Well, they vandalized Steve’s car, for one thing. They were rude in the bar, and I think there may have been a fight, or words said, or something. I only was there for a little bit. I didn’t see anything, but you could feel it being tense in there,” Melody said.

“It was the next morning, when I walked by, that I saw they were still here, out back in the parking lot. They were fixing the car, then they drove off. I don’t think they saw me. I was kinda hiding by the building, and spying on them.” She laughed.

Linda laughed, too. “Yeah, and now you find out you’re family. That is a crazy coincident, for real.”

They saw Steve come out of the store, and get into the U-Haul. They waited until he pulled out to the road, then followed.

~

“I’m ready to get the hell out of this po-dunk town,” Steve said, when he got back in the truck. “They’re still mean.”

“Want me to go beat ’em up for ya?” Ghost asked.

“Huh? Oh, I see…you’re making a joke.”

Ghost nodded. “Yeah, are you too upset to laugh?”

“Kinda,” Steve said. He sighed, letting his anger dissipate. “But, now we’re leaving, and we’ll never come back here, anyway.” He pulled out of the parking lot.

Just as he did, a motorcycle roared around the corner, almost running into them. It swerved just in time, but they heard the driver, yelling obscenities at them.

“Asshole,” Steve hollered, as he slammed on the brakes. It sent Ghost sliding off the seat, into the floor board. He bumped his head on the console.

“Dammit, Ghost…put your seat belt on.” Steve yelled. Then he asked, “Are you okay? Sorry for yelling. That guy was being a bastard.”

Ghost reclaimed his seat, and rubbed the sore spot on his forehead. “Yeah, I’m ok…just a…”

“Ghost?” Steve asked, and looked over at Ghost, when he didn’t finish what he was saying

“Huh?” Ghost asked, “What happened? I’m dizzy.” He was holding his head.

Steve saw that Ghost’s eyes were jerking back and forth. “Ghost, try to focus. Does anything hurt? You’re not gonna pass out, are you? Do you need to lay down?”

Ghost shook his head. “No, just there’s this knot on my head, and my head hurts, and I’m dizzy.”

“I’m finding a doctor,” Steve said.

“No…I’m fine, just let’s go.”

“I don’t know, maybe we should,” Steve said.

“Please, just go, Steve. This town is bad…I can feel it.” He fastened his seat belt, then leaned back, shutting his eyes. “It’s better now, anyway.”

“Okay,” Steve said. He drove slowly out onto the street. In a short time, they were out on the highway, heading east. They began to feel the change in altitude, as they drove higher into the mountains. Steve had to keep yawning, to keep his ears from feeling muffled. He did hear Ghost laugh, though.

“What,” he asked.

“You look funny when you do that,” Ghost said.

“So…don’t you have to pop open your ears?”

“Sometimes, but not as much as you,” he said, laughing.

“You feeling better?”

“Mmm, yeah. You’re not spinnin’ around anymore.”

“Let me look at your eyes,” Steve said, glancing over. He saw that they weren’t jerking around trying to focus anymore, and the pupils were a normal size. “Good, that’s good.”

“Hey, do you think our friends at the restaurant are still there?” Ghost asked.

“Well, maybe. I guess we’ll find out soon enough.”

“I hope so. They were nice when we were here before. How much farther is it?” Ghost asked.

“Oh, about five miles or so. Probably take us about ten minutes.”

“Good, ’cause I’m hungry.”

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 267

***

“Yes, it worked,” Ghost said.

“What worked?” Melody asked, as she watched Steve go into the little convenience store.

“The message I sent Linda…she got it,” Ghost said, and grinned. “I said to her, ‘camping would be fun, and save us money’.”

“You did? I didn’t hear anything. I don’t think Steve did either.” Melody frowned, as she thought for a minute. “Oh, I get it, you sent her a mental message? Can you show me how to do that?”

“I can try,” Ghost said. “Just think of something real hard, and about the person you want to send the message to. Let’s try one on Steve.”

“Okay, so I just think really hard for him to do something?”

“Yeah, then when he comes back out of the store, we’ll see if it worked. Maybe he’ll say something about what you were thinking. So, try it now, before he comes out, but don’t say it out loud, ’cause I want to see if I get it, too.”

“This is fun…okay, here goes…” Melody said, and she began thinking, with her eyes closed. She thought it over and over.

Ghost smiled. “I got it,” he said.”

Melody opened her eyes, looking at Ghost. “What do you think it was?”

“It was, ‘get some popcorn and beer’, right?”

“That’s right. Oh my God, it worked,” Melody said. “Well, it worked on you. I hope it worked on Steve, too.”

“Let me do one on him,” Ghost said, and closed his eyes to better think of a message. After a minute, he asked Melody if she got any message from him.

“Umm, not sure exactly, but the word ‘wine’ came in my head,” she said.

“That was it. You’re getting good at this.”

“Was that what you said? Just the word ‘wine’?” Melody asked.

“Yeah, that’s all. Steve will know it’s for me, and what kind, if they have it in the store. He don’t drink wine, just me…Scuppernong, so if he comes back with all that we ordered, well, cool,” Ghost said. He looked toward the store. “Uh-oh, here he comes.”

Steve came out of the store with several bags. He went to the van, and dropped it all in the back. “The guy said about a mile farther, there’s a road that will take us to the KOA campsite,” he told Linda. “Follow me.”

He came back up to the U-Haul, and got in, telling Ghost and Melody the plan to go to the camping area. After a minute, he mentioned what he’d bought in the store.

“I got us some hot dogs and chips for our cook-out. Oh, I thought the kids might like some popcorn, too, so I got some.”

Ghost and Melody smiled. “What else? You had a lot of sacks,” Ghost said.

“Oh, well, I got us some cold beer. I feel like a drink tonight, it’s been such a long day and all. I just need to chill for awhile. They had some of your favorite wine, too, Ghost, so I got you a bottle.”

“Cool, that’s great, Steve. I haven’t had any in so long.”

“Yeah, now I’m in a camping out mood. Y’all ready?” Steve asked.

“Let’s go,” said Melody. She raised her hand for a high five from Ghost, then they started laughing.

“What’s so funny?” Steve asked.

“Nothing, just feeling good,” Ghost said.

~

They drove to the camp ground, about two miles after they’d turned off on the road they were told about. It was nothing fancy, just several camp sites, with hook-ups for RVs, some metal BBQ grills, and a restroom/shower building. Steve went as far back as he could on the gravel road, avoiding the few other campers. There were two RVs and one tent set up. The RV people were inside; Steve could see the flicker of their TV set. The tenters were cooking, and looked like they were a family, gathered by the grill.

“Mmm, that wood smoke smells good,” Melody said. “Now, I’m hungry.”

“Me, too,” Ghost said. He was hanging his head out the window, hair fluttering in the light breeze. “It smells like home. The pine trees…”

“I know,” Steve said. “We’re getting closer. I never noticed it before, but you’re right. Things smell different in different places. These trees are home trees.” He stopped, and they got out, stretching their legs. Walking around felt good.

Linda and the kids were right behind them. She, Mandy, and Stevie, joined them.”

“So, what do we do?” Melody asked. “Do we need to gather some wood?”

“Naw, not tonight,” Steve said. “I bought some at that store. We can set up a little campfire.” He looked around, seeing a cleared area, where a fire could be lit. “C’mon, Ghost, let’s get the supplies.”

Stevie and Mandy were running around chasing each other and laughing. “Stay right here,” Linda said. “I’m going to help Steve unload. Can you keep an eye on them, Melody?”

“Sure, no problem,” Melody said. She decided to join them in their game. They shrieked, when she tagged them.

Steve was handing supplies from out of the van. “Here, hold this.” he said several times.

“I can’t hold any more. I’m taking it over there,” Ghost said.

“Here, give me some of that,” Linda said to Steve. “She took the cooler, and started back. The rest of the camping equipment was in the U-Haul. Steve opened it up, and took out the tents and cooking utensils. Ghost came back for another load, taking the sleeping bags. He was humming a song.

“This sure is a lot of trouble, when we could have stayed in a motel,” Steve was thinking. “Money isn’t an issue, after all,” he reminded himself. He still forgot sometimes, though.

Linda and Melody were trying to set up the tents. They were the easy pop-up kind, but still a bit unwieldy. Ghost laughed. “Hey, Steve, remember the big old Army tent?”

“Yeah, I remember,” Steve said. “Good riddance to that old thing.”

“And, to spiders,” Ghost said.

“Oh, God…don’t let me see a spider,” Melody said. “They scare me to death.” She shivered at the thought.

Steve rolled his eyes. “You, too?” he asked.

“Yes, I can’t stand them,” Melody said.

“Did a spider make a web on you, too?” Ghost asked.

“I don’t think so, but just running into a web is creepy. Are there any out here, around us?” she asked, looking around.

“Oh, honey, they’re everywhere, but they don’t bother you. They’re scared of us,” Linda said.

Melody wasn’t too sure of that, and shook out a blanket, just in case.

***

***

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.

Two Souls: Into the Fire # 259

Warning … adult content

***

Ghost tried to sit up, now, as the cool water had revived him from passing out.

“Take it slow dude,” Steve said. He helped him sit up in the front seat of the U-Haul. “How ya feeling?” He did see that the redness was about gone from Ghost’s cheeks.

“Okay, I think…what happened?” Ghost asked.

“Honey,” Linda said, “you passed out, maybe from the heat. We put cool water on you, thinking you’d had a heat stroke or something.”

“Yeah, scared the shit outta me,” Steve said. “One minute you were sleeping, the next, you were burning up and choking.” He felt Ghost’s face. “Well, you’re cool now.”

“Why was it so hot in here, Steve?” asked Linda. “I mean, it’s hot outside, but not…well, you were fine, and we were fine in the van. I didn’t have the air-conditioner on, either.”

Steve shrugged. “Beats me. I’d have noticed if it was too hot. I was just gonna turn it on though.”

“It wasn’t just the heat,” Ghost said. “I was attacked.”

“What?…Attacked?” Steve and Linda asked.

Ghost frowned, thinking. “When I was asleep, I saw something bad. It was dark and spinning all around me, and was sucking the breath out of me. Did you see it in here, Steve?”

“Hell, I didn’t see anything, just the road and then you choking, and turning red. Then I pulled over, and you’d fainted,” Steve said. “That’s creepy, Ghost…some evil thing was in here with us?”

“Well, it was real to me, and it was trying to kill me. Maybe the dream me…not me in here, but then it was both of us. I’m confused still…what was it?” Ghost asked.

“You’re the one that dreamed it up…you tell me,” Steve said.

“I’m glad you’re feeling better, Ghost,” Linda said. “I have to get back to the van and the kids. I can’t leave them alone over there for long. Let me know when you want to get going again.”

“Why’d you say that…being attacked…by what?” Steve asked.

“By the dark tornado thing,” Ghost said. “It said something, too. It sounded like ‘what’s yours is now mine. Leave it be.” He shivered.

“Is it gone, now?”

“Yeah, for now, but it’ll be back the closer we get. I think it don’t want me to find it…the thing we’re looking for.”

“Then let’s just forget it then, like it said…leave it be,” Steve said.

“NO…I have to get it.”

Steve sighed. “Okay, then, if you want to get attacked again, let’s go find it.” He signaled to Linda, and they got back on the highway, heading for the state line.

They rode in silence for a few miles, without the radio music, and neither of them spoke. Ghost had leaned back, closing his eyes. Steve could tell he was concentrating on something, because he kept mumbling words in a barely audible whisper.

“What are you doing, Ghost?” Steve finally asked.

“Mapping…or GPS-ing, or whatever you call it.”

“Oh, like in your head?” Steve asked. “You have a GPS in your head?” He was trying hard not to laugh.

“No, not a real one, just…I’m looking ahead of us, so I can see where we need to go,” Ghost said.

“Umm, you gonna tell me where to go?” Steve asked.

Ghost snickered.

“God…not like that…you know what I mean,” Steve said, rolling his eyes.

“Yeah, I’ll tell ya,” Ghost said. “There’s a road that goes to the town Ozark. Well, it’s marked on the highway sign. Take it, then I’ll say which way to go from there.”

They soon came upon the first sign that mentioned Ozark. “There’s a sign, and it says twenty miles. You got any clue of where, or what it is yet?”

“Maybe. I keep seeing an old house, Victorian with a big old porch, and a bunch of things in the yard, with people looking around.”

“That sounds like a yard sale to me,” Steve said. “Ya think so?”

“Hey, that’s it. Oh, now I’m getting excited, Steve. I love yard sales.”

“Good, because here’s the turn off road,” Steve said, as he took the side road off the highway. “Got your radar on?”

“Huh?”

“Your GPS thing in your head…which way do we go?” Steve asked, as he pulled up to a stop sign.

***

***

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.