I confess, I'm not a fan of Halloween or horror, unless it's the film "Hush Hush Sweet Charlotte" or the television show "Supernatural". I've been called names because I don't like chocolate, so go ahead and say I'm a bit strange. You will not get any argument there. I know I'm strange because when I was about six, I saw a tiger lying across from my bed. The family was adding to the house and there was company. My parents were showing off the new addition and my brother and I were in the bunk beds in the kitchen and there was this tiger lying there looking at me. Later, after the addition was done, I had a robed person stand at the end of my bed. I will point out, at no time was I frightened. Go figure!
I also grew up with books and stories of miracles, angels and choices. So when the story "Angel of Salvation Valley" popped into my head I ran with it. To explain how the pieces fit together, that's a bit harder. Let's just say, the stories of my youth and years spent working in the judicial system (think lock up) all conspired to play a part. So I hope you all will enjoy "Angel of Salvation Valley". Below is a bit of Halloween candy (I had to do that**GRIN**).Be sure to comment by October 20 for a chance to win a copy.
Excerpt:
Luke had come at twilight and he'd missed dinner. His stomach was beginning to complain about the lost meal. As Harold walked in, Drew backed away, fearful the whole talk of getting out had been a set-up, and he was in for more punishment—torture, really. The look in Old Harold's eyes signaled to Drew he'd been correct in his assumption. The blood stain on the wall was a testimony to the reason for his apprehension. He waited for the other two to join Harold, but they were nowhere in sight.
"Here ya go boy. Knowed you missed your meal," Harold said.
Drew just stared, sure it had to be a trick.
"Come on boy, it's a-gettin’ cold," Harold chided. "I he'ted it up fer ya."
"Just set it down, I'm not really hungry," Drew said, staring at the old man. Despite his hunger, this uneasiness he couldn't ignore.
"Suit yerself, boy, I'll be back in a bit to get the dishes," Harold said as he left the cell, locking the door behind him.
Drew stared at the food, fearful of what might happen if he ate it. He didn't trust Harold. His whole world was being turned upside down. He stared out the window, just catching a glimpse of the first star. The window was the worst torture. He could see out, but the world was just beyond reach. It was cold in winter and hot in summer, but it had helped him to see the outside. Finally, hunger won out and he turned from the window. Taking his first bite, he knew he'd made a mistake.
Angela Raines is the pen name for Doris McCraw. Doris also writes haiku posted five days a week at (coming up on one thousand haikus):
http://fivesevenfivepage.blogspot.com
BUY LINKS FOR ANGEL OF SALVATION VALLEY
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