The Book: Chapter 51

Hi. Yes, you, my reader. Don’t be shy. I’m glad you could make it.

Let’s not bore each other with names. You’ve read my story. Sad, but true, and let’s face it, in this troubled world, we get our kicks where we can. You read my life gratuitously, and now I get to examine yours. Maybe you’re worthy. Perhaps you aren’t. You look a bit feeble, if I’m honest. I can live with that, I suppose, as long as the intellect is there. Did you have to hit every branch of the ugly tree on the way down? I’ve been in Marilyn Monroe’s bed, you know.

Still, you wouldn’t have made it this far if you didn’t have a taste for the macabre. You’ve turned my pages, hunted my secrets, and chased the end. Did you think it was over?

It never is.

I see you.

Yes, you.

Sitting there, reading. Maybe you’re curled up in bed, your blanket pulled tight around you, shielding you from the night. Maybe you’re alone in your living room, the glow of your screen casting shadows on the walls in the lamplight. And after what you’ve read, there’s just that smidge of discomfort. And now you’re wondering if I mean you. Come on. Get with the program. I’m talking directly to you. Maybe you’re on a bus, stealing glances at the people around you, wondering if any of them are reading over your shoulder.

You just glanced up, didn’t you?

You’re checking your surroundings, scanning the room, listening for a sound you don’t remember hearing before.

Good.

You should.

Because I’m here. I’ve been waiting for you.

I gave you several scenarios—but I was playing with you. It’s what I do. I made you uncomfortable and let you relax. ‘Phew, it doesn’t know where I am. It’s not talking to me directly. It’s just guessing. I could be anybody.’

Wrong!

Guess what, honey? I fooled you once, and I will again. Many times. Because you’re mine now. It is you. And I know everything about you.

You were curious—wondering what kind of book doesn’t have a cover image. I’ll write your story and you’ll see.

And now I’m inside your head.

I know every tiny detail about you. The way you shift when you’re uncomfortable. The way you just looked over your shoulder. The way your pulse picked up—just a little—when you saw these words.

Go on.

Turn the page.

I DARE YOU.

The Book Here's the Amazon link for The Book. Available on KU and Audible, as well as eBook and Paperback  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F2J7QYCQ