Chapter 13

A lot of people screamed as Shane drove along the road like a deranged psychopath. His eyes and mind were only filled with one thing: Murder. He starred at the gun in the passenger seat of his car and his eyes narrowed.
Werewolves. If someone had told him that they existed, He would have smacked their head until it rotated three sixty degrees. It still made no sense to him but after what had happened in the couple of weeks, it was clear that this was the real thing. This was no movie. This was reality. And the reality was that they existed. Well, definitely not for long as with the weapon on the seat, he was going to end the legend. And he was going to start with the person who started the tale: Mark.
Shane growled loudly. That man knew more than he spoke and to make everything worse, the werewolf who killed Juliana was Michael, his son. That gave birth to another suspicion. Could Mark be a werewolf himself? Everything had been forgotten for that moment as he knew Sam had taken care of it.
Then all a sudden, his brother dies on the night of a full moon? By the same wound inflicted on Juliana a month earlier on that same day? It was no rocket science. And it was sure as hell no coincidence.
Before Shane Could turn around the bend that led to another road, he pressed his brakes, bring his car to a halt as another car intercepted him.
“What the bloody hell?!” Shane cried out, nearly having a whiplash.
Peering closer, he discovered it was a police car. He opened his car and stepped out just as the person at the other car opened theirs. Shane raised his eyebrows in surprise to see none other than Roxanne.
“Detective Perry?” He questioned as she walked towards him.
“Got that right.” She answered.
“Did I do anything wrong?” He asked.
“You mean besides driving like an slowpoke and nearly running over people? No.” She folded her arms and gave him a grim look.
“Oh.” He rubbed his neck.
“Can I understand what this is all about?” Her expression shifted to concern.
“Its about Sam. I know his killer.”
“Really. Who?” She changed her stance and there was a look of interest on her face.
Shane hesitated. How was he going to tell her something like this. He inwardly kicked himself.
“Well?” Roxanne pressed. Shane could see her tapping her feet on the floor. He sighed.
‘Well, here goes nothing.’ He thought.
“It was a werewolf.” He said aloud.
A heavy silence filled the road.
“Shane.” Roxanne scowled. “Don’t tell me you made me drive all the way here only to have you feed me that sort of crap.”
Shane kicked himself inwardly. Seeing her response was a replay of how he reacted to Mark’s story. Now he knew how it felt.
“I’m fucking serious!” He yelled, startling her. “Werewolves exist. I never thought I would hear myself say this but they do. I’m going over to the source of the person who started this.”
“Okay this should be interesting.” Roxanne shook her head. “You’re lucky I have nothing doing now. I’ll come along. Let’s see how this plays out.”
“Are you sure?’ Shane asked.
“Yeah. Trust me, I have all the time in the world.” She nodded. “I’ve never had this kind of amusement in ages.”
Shane frowned at her but nonetheless went into his car. Chuckling a bit, she entered hers and followed him as he drove along the way.
Hours later, they had arrived at the city where it all started. The city that the cabin of horrors was located. After asking about Mark from several people, fortune smiled on them when they finally encountered someone who knew his residence.
On getting to his house, they stepped out. They surveyed his house. It was the only one in the vicinity surrounded by no walls nor gate. It was a single bungalow with a wooden door.
“This is….” Shane began.
“Strange.” Roxanne completed his sentence, her eyes filled with awe. “I could think of more words but let’s settle with strange.”
“Yeah.” He nodded.
They moved towards the house and knocked. Not up to five minutes later, they heard shuffling of feet and the door opened to reveal Mark.
“What…” His ancient eyes widened a bit.
To the surprise of Mark and Roxanne, Shane pulled out his revolver and aimed directly at Mark’s forehead.
“Start talking.” Shane growled menacingly.

Chapter 14

Mark stared at the gun pressed directly to his temple. He didn’t flinch. Roxanne stood agape with disbelieving eyes at the sight of the gun. No one made a move for the past minutes.
Then Mark sighed. He knew his mind wasn’t at ease for nothing. Since he left the gravesite of his son, the bad feeling never went away. And he knew it was connected to the young angry man pointed a gun between his eyes.
“Young man, this is not necessary. He said.
“Give me one reason why I shouldn’t blow your head out this minute.” Shane snarled.
“Because I have done you no harm.” Mark wittingly replied.
“Oh really? You and I know that is a bunch of bull.” Shane snapped, his grip tightening on the gun.
“Shane.” Roxanne growled in a warning manner. “Are you really planning to take a man’s life right in front of me?”
Shane glanced at her. He saw her hand move towards her holster. He then turned around to see Mark still with the calm façade.
“Fine.” He relented and put the gun away.
“You’re still not off the hook, old man.” He glared at Mark.
“You don’t need to tell me that.” Mark nodded.
He stepped back a bit and gestured inside.
“Please come in.” He said. “Have a seat.”
Shane and Roxanne stared at each other and then gave him a gaze. Mark shrugged and walked in nonetheless.
“You never told me you had a gun.” Roxanne turned to Shane.
“You never asked.” He replied cheekily.
She scowled at him and raised his arms in surrender.
“Fine.” He gritted his teeth. “It’s Sam’s.”
“I know.” She nodded. “Where else would you get a gun?”
“Would it creep you out to know that they’re loaded with silver bullets?” He said innocently.
“A bit. But think I’ve seen and heard enough weird things within thirty minutes.” She shook her head.
They walked in and found Mark seated at a wooden chair. They picked a large armchair just enough for two people and sat down..
“From your manner of arrival here, I suppose something terrible happened.” Mark said.
“Damn right.” Shane said. “My brother was murdered. “
“I’m sorry about your loss.” Mark lowered his eyes.
“Are you? Because the way I see it, you have something to do with all of this?” Shane glared at him.
“How?”
“The night you told us that tale, one of my friends was murdered by a werewolf.”
“I thought you said you don’t believe in them.” Mark tilted his head sideways.
Roxanne raised her eyebrow at Shane.
“Don’t play smart with me, old man. You know very well what’s going on. Or do I need to remind you that the werewolf that killed my girlfriend was your son!” Shane yelled.
Roxanne sat stunned. She couldn’t believe her eyes. She turned to Mark who was oddly calm.
“So you know more than you say.” Shane continued. “If your son is a werewolf, that makes you one.”
Mark said nothing for a while. He sighed and stared at the ceiling for a while. Then he turned his head towards Shane.
“You are partially correct.” He said. “But the correct term is ‘was’. Not ‘is’. ”
“Was?” Roxanne asked, perplexed. This was like a movie to her. This man was confirming what Shane told her earlier about werewolves. She discreetly scanned the room. Was she being scammed? Was this some sort of prank?
“Yes, my child.” Mark turned to her.
He then shifted his gaze to Shane.
“Remember I told you that the curse was neutralized to fifty years. I was a werewolf for fifty years. I am the descendant of the woman who was cursed: Mariah.” He said.
Shane shifted on his seat.
“But I assure you, I bore the curse for fifty years. I stopped being a werewolf a very long time ago.” Mark added.
“Then who the Bleep is the other werewolf that murdered my brother?!” Shane bellowed.
Before anyone could talk, a woman entered the living room. Shane raised his brows as he took in her appearance. She was slender and bore a striking resemblance to Michael. Though looking closer, Shane could detect an air of mischief and arrogance about her.
“What is all these noise?” She asked.
Her eyes then caught the two people in the room.
“Oh.” She nodded in understanding and faced Mark. “Visitors. Not every time you get them, father.”
Mark sighed and faced his visitors.
“Meet my daughter.” He gestured his hand towards the new woman. “Michelle.”
“Hello.” Michelle casually waved.
“You look a lot like Michael.” Shane noted. “A little much.”
“I’m his twin sister.” Michelle replied. “Well, ‘was’ his twin sister.”
Shane narrowed his eyes and then faced Mark with a questioning stare.
“I know what you’re thinking.” Mark replied. “No, she is not a werewolf either.”
“Who are these people, father?” Michelle questioned. Her eyes zoomed in on Shane, giving him a scrutinizing gaze.
“Casualties of a werewolf attack.” Shane glowered at her. “I lost my brother and girlfriend to one.”
“Like I said, young man, she is not a werewolf. The curse only affects the first born of every generation. I told you this before.” Mark said.
“Then what am I to believe?” Sane was confused now.
“Only one theory. “ Mark lowered his gaze.
Shane looked at him expectantly.
‘Tell me, young man. Apart from what happened to your lover, did the werewolf touch anyone? Was anyone bitten or scratched by a werewolf that night you were here?” Mark asked.
Shane’s eyes widened as he quickly remembered the scratch he saw on Harry’s arm. No one had to tell him more. But the question Mark just asked was just the pointer. And now a new suspicion was born. He said nothing though.
“ Because if so, It can only mean one thing.” Mark said. “I’m afraid to say that one of your friend’s have been infected by the curse. One of them is a werewolf.”
Silence dropped in the living room with that final statement. Roxanne sat there like a dummy all through the discussion and still said nothing after. This was strange to her. Michelle stood casually, a blank look on her face. As for Shane, he was conflicted. Moments later, he stood up.
“I don’t know if all these is true.” He said. “But old man, I have my doubts and only one thing can clear this up.”
Shane looked at Michelle.
“She’s coming with me.” He said.
“What?” Michelle raised her eyebrow. “And why will I want to do that?”
“Nothing personal.” Shane said. “ I want to be sure I’m not being played here.”
“You seriously think I’m a werewolf?” Michelle asked, amusement clear in her voice.
“More or less.” Shane shrugged.
“Agreed. She will go with you.” Mark said.
Michelle stared at her father in utter shock.
“It’s for one month.” Mark said. “ It’s to clear his doubts about you being a werewolf.”
Michelle chuckled and shook her head. She faced Shane.
“You’re crazy. “ She said. “But I’m in.”
Walking towards him, she leant downwards until she was eye level with him.
“I really hope you know what you’re getting into. I’m going to give you one hell of frustration.” She whispered.

Chapter 15

“Are we there yet?”
“No.”
“Are we there yet?”
“No. And it wasn’t funny the first twenty times you asked either.”
Shane was borderline going crazy as Michelle did everything to frustrate him during the trip back home. From tapping unnecessarily at the glass to changing stations unnecessarily at the stereo. He gripped the steering wheel and cursed his luck.
‘Damn bitch.’ He growled in thought. ‘I wished she followed Roxanne .’
The said detective had gone back to her office still with the confused and bemused look on her face. Shane had asked her several times if she was okay and she replied in the affirmative but the look on her face told a different story. He was worried she might even have a lapse of concentration on the way back.
“Are we there yet?” Michelle asked again as they passed another house.
“No!” Shane yelled this time, barely getting a flinch from her. “When we get there I’ll tell you for Bleep’s sake!”
“Oh, a man than cusses.” Michelle cooed. “I like that.”
Shane stared at her like she had two heads. He had never seen or met any woman like her. This woman was on the verge of giving him high blood pressure. At a young age for that matter.
Then a thought came to his head.
“The way you agreed to come along with me.” He began. “ That was too weird. You easily agreed. Should I be worried about something?”
“Yeah.” She nodded with a grin.
“What’s that?” He asked.
“I’m a werewolf.” She said plainly.
Shane nearly lost his footing on the brake in shock. The car swerved for a bit and after some moments’ he steadied it.
“I was joking.” Michelle was laughing uncontrollably. “You should have seen your face.”
“You think this is funny?!” Shane snapped. “A werewolf fucking killed two people in my life who I care about and you’re joking about it? Keep in mind that even if you may or may not be one, you’re related to one and you’re making jokes?”
“Relax.” She waved a hand dismissively. “ I’m not having a field trip either. You’re not the only one who lost a brother, you know. I lost my twin brother. To yours, specifically. The whole thing goes full circle. I’m just trying to lighten the atmosphere here, come on.”
Shane noted the drop in her tone as she made her statement. For the first time in the trip, he saw something in her eyes. A feeling he couldn’t put a finger on. It was there for a split second and it was gone. Her smile was back.
Moments later, they arrived at his home and got out from the car.
“Wow.” Michelle whistled. “Sweet crib.”
“Thanks.” Shane muttered a reply.
They stepped in and Shane switched on the light. Michelle nodded, impressed as she saw the living room.
“Your living room is…”
She barely got the sentence out as she felt a hand strike her at the back of her neck. All went black.

************************************************
Michelle squinted as the rays of light hit her eyes. Sh groaned and tried to move. To her utter shock, she discovered she was handcuffed to a chair. Both hands to be precise. She noticed Shane standing at the corner with a grin.
“What is this?” She shrieked and tried to move. “Why am I cuffed to a chair?”
“I’m just taking precautions.” Shane walked over and squatted to her eye level. “ I’m still not sold on your dad’s story so you’re staying here for a while.”
“Does that explain why I’m cuffed to a chair?” Michelle frowned. “ Wait a minute, why do you even have handcuffs?”
“It’s part of a little game I play with some of my babes.” He winked at her.
“I don’t even want to know.” Michelle wrinkled her nose in disgust.
Shane shook his head and moved towards the door.
“Hold on.” Michelle called after him. ‘You’re not planning on leaving me like this.”
“I am.” He said. “Just for tonight.”
“Where are you going?” She asked.
“To have a bit of fun.” He replied. “Stay beautiful.”
He closed the door and was gone. Michelle groaned as she heard the door to the living room slam shut. Her eyes moved to the left and she caught something.
A grin spread on her face.

Chapter 16

The strip club was buzzing with activities. Shane grinned widely as he spotted the semi nude women displaying their assets at the cheering male crowd. This was the perfect way to wind up. He needed something, anything to get rid of all the trauma that had been in his head for the past months. Anything less than this and he could find himself borderline suicidal.
He moved towards the bar where the bartender, a young attractive woman stood at the counter serving drinks. Her white blouse had about three buttons undone revealing her ample assets. A wolfish grin spread on Shane’s face as he walked towards her. She perked up on seeing hi.
“He, Carter.” She grinned widely, showing her pearly whites. “It’s been ages. You don’t really come around. I’ve missed you.”
“I missed you too.” He eyed the bare flesh displayed beyond her blouse. Clearly she was not wearing a bra.
“Me? Or the twins?” She smiled suggestively, leaning forward on the bar, and gave him a better view.
“Both.” He voice came out shaky as he stared at her bountiful flesh, entranced. He cleared his throat and shook his head. She giggled at him.
“I want the usual today.” He requested.
“Coming right up.’ She nodded and fixed him the drink.
As the bartender took her gaze momentarily away from Shane, his eyes scanned the area. They landed on a group of men that seemed to have been staring at him since he had entered the club. He noticed that they were four and one of them wore a white suit while the rest wore black
“Your drink, love.” He brought his attention back to the bartender as she set his drink on the table.
“Thanks.”
“Are those guy’s regulars?” He nodded towards the strange men.
“Who?” She asked and then followed his eyes. “No. Must be new.”
He tipped her and took a swift drink. As he moved away, he noticed the men stand up and do the same. And they seemed to walk towards him. Before long they had spread out and he was surrounded.
The man in white walked towards him and folded his arms.
“Do you know me?” He asked.
“No.” Shane replied. “Should I?’
“I’m the right hand man of the big boss. The man who you’ve been screwing around with his wife.” The men in white replied.
Shane’s eyes widened. Before he could make a move, the men descended on him and administered blows. Chaos erupted in the club and the bouncers were forced to make their way over.
“Shit.” The man in white cursed as he saw them approach. “Get this motherfucker out of here.”
Too weak from the beating, Shane found himself bundled out of the club by the men in black. Within minutes, he found himself in a car in the middle of two of the men. The third man took the wheel and the man in white sat at the passenger seat. Within minutes, the car took off.
Hours later, Shane was picked up and thrown out of the car roughly. He barely made it to his feet before he was knocked back down. He barely studied his surroundings. It was some kind of field across the road. He peered up to the sky and his eyes widened.
It was a full moon. This was bad.
‘Shit!’ He cursed inwardly. ‘I’m not supposed to be out in the open.’
He made to get up but he was knocked back down.
The man in white fished out a gun and pointed it at Shane.
“You know what happens what you step on a viper’s tail?” The man in white grinned. “You get bitten. The big man has ordered for your execution.”
Before he could pull the trigger, there was a sudden growl. An inhumanlike growl. A sound that could only mean one thing. Shane’s suspicions grew. He broke out in cold sweat and the four assassins paled.
“What was that?” The man in white whispered.
They looked around but saw nothing.
Just then a werewolf jumped out in the open. Before the man in white could react, the creature swiped at him with a paw. The impact slashed his throat and he fell down lifeless.
The remaining men tried to take off but the beast was too fast. Within minutes, it made light work of them. It then turned it’s attention to Shane.
Shane opened his mouth but the scream couldn’t come out. His heart nearly left his body as he took in the sight of the monster. This one was not as big as Michael but it was more menacing nonetheless. It’s eyes were even brighter and it had darker and thicker fur. Everything about the werewolf read doom, viciousness and savagery.
As the werewolf took another step, a gunshot was heard. It snapped it’s head towards the direction. More shots followed and it swiftly took off.
Shane stood up on his feet in time to see none other than Michelle approach. She was holding a pistol. The pistol he owned.
“How did you get free?” He asked.
“Your utter carelessness.” She raised up a key to his face. The key to his handcuffs.
Shane mentally face palmed.
“And how did you find me?” He asked.
“You gave me clues, you dummy.” Michelle shook her head. “The handcuffs. Then you said you were going to have ‘fun’. That means only one thing. And that means there can only be one kind of place you would end up. A strip club. Typical and predictable’”
“Oh.” He scratched the back of his neck. “Thanks..You know..for saving my hide.”
“No problem.” She grinned at him.
“Now you know I’m not a werewolf. Are we cool now?” She asked.
“Yeah.” He nodded.
“One more thing.” She put her finger under her chin in thought.
“What’s that?” He asked.
Swiftly, she struck him at the temple with the gun. Shane fell down in a heap on the ground, loosing consciousness.
“There.” She glared at his fallen form. “Now we’re even.”

TGIF and goodnight

This is just the beginning never start a fight with someone who has nothing to lose
Op mention me in your next update you are doing a great job

I'm loving this story expect the painful death of Sam I was already inlove with his character

Chapter 17

Shane woke up with a start. He looked around and discovered that he was in his living room. He made to stand up but winced as he felt his head. The throbbing pain was a reminder of the very reason he was unconscious in the first place.
‘Stupid bitch’ He growled and lay back in the seat.
He then stood up with a start.
“Wait a minute.” He looked around. “Where the hell is she?’
He got up and searched around. He checked the kitchen, basement. No one was there. He grumbled and made his way upstairs towards his room.
“Cant believe that bitch saved me only to knock me the Bleep out.” He grumbled and held his head. “Who does that?!”
“Well, at least she brought me back.” He sighed in relief.
He stepped into his room and pulled off his shirt. Moving to the mirror he checked in and saw a small bruise on the edge of his forehead, Apart from that he saw stubbles growing at his jaw. It was time to shave. Something he hadn’t done in , well, ages. As he rubbed his chin, he took the time to reflect.
Things just seemed to have gotten worse. He didn’t understand what was happening anymore. And he cursed himself more for even forgetting that yesterday was a full moon. How could he have been so careless? Well, he was never used to studying calendars. He was even terrible at geography. But now, this had to change.
He checked his pockets and sighed in relief. Fortunately, his phone was still intact. He opened it and saw no messages.
“Terrific.” He scowled, seeing as his mature lover didn’t contact him.. “I get beaten up by your husband’s goons and you don’t call to see how I’m faring.”
He moved towards the bathroom and opened the door. If his head wasn’t filled and he wasn’t distracted, he would have heard the sound of the shower even before he stepped into his living room. But he didn’t and so he wasn’t prepared for what greeted him when he opened the door.
The shower was running and Michelle stood with her back to him. He gaped as he saw the water cascade down her body from the back of her neck, down her well formed derriere and then to the calves of her feet. He also noticed one or two scars on her upper back. It was then he knew this was one hell of a tough woman. He knew she was slim from the first time he met her but seeing her bare right now, he was surprised to see she was also trim. Her lower back had some tight muscles and her calves looked strong. Her wet hair plastered to her back. Shane stood there like a statue.
Just then Michelle turned around and saw him.
“Hey!” She yelled, putting her hand across her chest and putting the other one to cover down below.
“I…..” Shane could only mutter.
“Get out!” She threw a bar of soap at him and he scurried off.
“Sorry!” He cried behind him.
As soon as he stepped out of the room, the light bulb in his head switched on.
“Wait a minute.” He frowned. “That’s my bathroom and this is my house.”
A knock on the front door was heard and he moved towards the living room. Opening it, he saw Eddie.
“Hey, Man.” Eddie shook his hand and stepped in.
Shane closed the door and turned around. Eddie gasped at his appearance.
“You look like something an animal swallowed and regurgitated.” He half-joked.
“ It’s funny you should say that. You wouldn’t believe what happened yesterday.” Shane replied.
“What happened?”
“Lots. Got beat up by my clients goons. That woman I told you about. Well, shit’s hit the fan and her husband knows. Sent his douche bags right on my ass.” Shane sighed.
“What?” Eddie gasped.
And I was almost killed by a werewolf.” Shane added for good measure.
Eddie’s eyes widened.
“The Bleep! There’s a werewolf in this city?” He shrieked. “But I thought it was killed.”
“Yeah. Apparently, the old geezer didn’t complete the story. There’s another one on the loose now.”
Michelle came into the living room fully dressed with a small towel around her wet hair.
“Hey’” She casually waved her greeting.
“Hello.” Eddie waved back. She nodded and then sent a glare to Shane’s way before stepping into the kitchen.
Eddie gave Shane a knowing smile.
“Not what you think.” Shane shook his head. “This one is crazy. And to add fuel to the fire, that’s the old geezer’s daughter.”
“Why is she here.?” Eddie asked.
“ Long story. “Shane sighed tiredly. “I’ll explain everything later.”
He switched on the TV. What came on was nearly enough to send him to the ground in shock. The program showed a live coverage of the field where he was attacked and nearly killed. The camera panned down to the four men who were killed by the werewolf as the anchorwoman kept the broadcast.
“Holy shit.” Eddie’s eyes nearly popped out of his sockets.
“I guess this would make explaining easier.” Shane sighed.
And the story began. It was going to be one hell of a long explanation.

Chapter 18

Shane stepped out of the car and surveyed the neighborhood. It had been a very long time since he came there. The memories of when he used to hang out with that very person he came to seek was still a bit fresh. But those memories brought anger now. As the person he was looking for was Harry.
Shane scowled as he walked towards the house in front of him. It was a regular looking house but over the years, some renovation had been done to make it look better. The house had now been painted white and the lawns were modified with garden gnomes.
“Garden gnomes.” Shane shivered at the sight of the ornaments. “Those little fuckers give me the creeps.”
He shook his head as he passed them and then knocked on the door. There was no answer. His scowl deepened and he knocked again, this time harder than before. For minutes there was no answer again. Shane had reached the limit of his patience and made to knock again when a voice called from behind him.
“He’s not here.”
Shane turned around to see an old woman giving him a curious look. She stood a few feet away from him.
“He hasn’t been around for a month.” She continued.
“Really?” Shane raised an eyebrow. “ Where did he go.?”
“He didn’t tell anyone.” The woman said and then started walking away. “He rarely tells anyone anything”
Shane watched her walk into another house and sighed. This was a waste of time.
As he stepped out of the doorway, he saw Agnes. The two stared at each other for a while.
“Agnes.” Shane nodded in greeting.
“Hello Shane.” She replied. “What are you doing here?”
“I came to see Harry.” Shane replied.
“Oh.” Agnes said. “I haven’t seen him for a while.”
“Yeah I was just told.” He turned around to leave.
“Hey Shane.”Agnes called after him.
“Yeah?” He turned to face her..
“Is Eddie seeing someone else?’ Agnes asked.
Shane stood transfixed.
“I can’t really say. Why?” He finally said.
“He’s being acting different. Distant lately.”
“Maybe he’s trying to get his mind off things. You know the past two months weren’t really rainbows and unicorns.” He stated flatly.
“Yeah I guess.” She didn’t look convinced. “See you around.”
Shane watched as she walked away. Whatever was going on between her and Eddie was not his concern. He had bigger things to worry about. Bigger and deadlier things.
He faced Harry’s house and narrowed his eyes. Reaching into his pocket, he clutched at the gun.

Chapter 19

The bright rays from the sun penetrated Shane’s closed eyes right from his window. He grumbled and tossed around on his bed to avoid it and get some more sleep. Instead a small bird perched right on top of his windowsill and began to chirp loudly.
“Are you kidding me?’ He pried his eyes open and looked at the small creature.
It tilted it’s head sideways, hopped a bit and then flew away. Shane scowled at it. It seemed like the aim of the little guy was to ruin his sleep and then run off.
“Damn.” He muttered with a yawn and got off the bed. “Sometimes I think animals are even more cunning than we humans.”
A shower later and he was freshened up. He came right into the kitchen and saw Michelle sitting right at his table and eating a bowl of cereal.
“You couldn’t have picked another cereal?” Shane frowned at her as he opened the fridge.
“Why? Is there any law that says I’m supposed to eat a particular box of cereal.” She twirled the spoon in her fingers and gave him a questioning look.
“That’s my favorite.” He snapped at her.
“Which makes it even more delicious.” She put a spoonful in her mouth and savoured it with her eyes closed. Opening her eyes, she caught the withering gaze he gave her and she smiled.
“Delicious.” She said.
“You are so fucking childish sometimes.” He muttered, pulling out a pack of orange juice from the fridge.
“Now wait a minute there, cowboy.” She held up a finger. “ This ‘childish’ woman saved your hide and is the very reason you are here right now to bicker over a box of cereal.”
“Oh, don’t I know it?” Shane rolled his eyes and poured the juice into a glass. He chugged down the contents in one swift motion. “You remind me almost everyday.”
Shane frowned as he remembered. Since that event last night, Michelle had made it her goal to remind him every time he scolded her on her misbehavior. If she overused the hot water and he screamed at her, she would tell him she saved his life. If they ran out of electricity, she would remind him. He was almost going insane.
He picked up his car keys and left without another word.
Hours later he was at Sam’s grave site.
“Hey, little bro.” He smiled a bit as he stared at the grave stone. “It’s been a month and I’m here to tell you that instead of things getting better, theve gotten worse. The monster who took you away nearly united us in the after life but that was not to be.”
He chuckled wryly and shook his head. “I don’t even know if that’s a good or bad thing.”
‘It depends on how you want to see it.’
That familiar voice startled Shane and he turned around. His eyes went wide as he saw the figure of his brother materialize into view. He was dressed in all white. Shane rubbed his eyes thoroughly.
“Holy Bleep” He said. “Sam?!”
The figure shook his head. Shane sighed and lowered his eyes.
“You’re not real” He said. “I’m hallucinating.”
The figure smiled sadly and moved beside him.
‘Whether you are or are not, what matters is that you still have me in your mind’ The figure said. ‘There are lots of mysteries in this life that one can’t phantom. There’s only one thing I have to tell you now.’
“What’s that?” Shane asked.
‘What you look for is closer than you think.’ The figure said.
“What the hell?” Shane frowned.
He looked away in thought. Turning back to his side, he discovered that the figure was gone.
Another sound of footsteps was heard behind him and he turned around to see Roxanne. She held a single rose and was dressed in a white blouse and dark blue jeans. A contrast to her uniform.
“Detective Perry?” Shane raised an eyebrow as she walked towards him.
“Hello, Shane.” Roxanne smiled as soon as she got to him. She bent down and placed a rose at the base of Sam’s tombstone.
“Thank you.” Shane nodded with a genuine smile.
“Its nothing,” She replied. “Your brother deserved it. He was the best partner I ever worked with, Dedicated and determined.”
Shane stared at her. The look on her face showed utter sorrow.
“Sorry to ask. Were you two….” He paused to give her a knowing look.
“Oh no. Nothing like that.” She shook her head. “We were just partners and platonic friends.”
“Oh.” That’s all Shane could say. “The last time I saw him, we nearly got into a disagreement. I never got the chance to set things straight.”
Roxanne stared at him. She saw the look of regret in his eyes. She could have imagined how it felt.
Shane however still pondered on what his hallucination told him.
‘What you look for is closer than you think.’
What the hell did that mean?

Chapter 20

Shane arrived home and stepped out of the car to see Michelle outside on the porch. She was talking to a pair of twin girls not more than eleven years of age. Laura and Lana. He leaned against his car and watched as the little girls giggled at something she said. A warm smile spread across his face at their interaction.
Then a frown appeared on his face. What if she was telling them something about him? Because this was Michelle he was talking about. She could be that devious and unpredictable. He leaned away from the car and walked towards them.
“Hey Shane.” The twins piped as he approached.
“Hey girls.” Shane smiled at them. “What’s up? How are you doing?”
“Nothing much.” Lana, the twin with sharper eyes replied. “Just having a chat with Michelle here.”
She nodded towards Michelle. Shane turned towards her and she gave him an innocent look. He narrowed his eyes at her discreetly.
“Nothing about me, I suppose.” He faked a smile and faced the twins again’
“No. Not at all.” Laura stifled a giggle.
“Yeah, why should we talk about you?” Lara chuckled. “Don’t worry. It’s just girl’s talk.”
Shane saw Michelle vibrate a bit with giggles from the corner of his eye. He glanced towards her and she quickly adopted a serious expression.
“Right.” He said grimly. “Anyway, see you around, girls.”
“Bye!” They chorused as he stepped into the house.
He could still their never ending giggling as he closed the door and rolled his eyes.
“Women.” He muttered. “All the same from all ages.”
He hoped to God that Michelle never told them anything embarrassing. The last thing he wanted was his neighbors looking at him from a different view.
Just then his phone rang. He fished it out of his pocket and stared at the details. It was an unknown number. He raised his eyebrows. Who was that supposed to be. He lifted his finger to click the answer button then paused. A feeling of dread washed over him. The last time an unknown number called him, it turned out to be the number of his cougar’s husband. His heartbeat sped up. What if it was that man. If he ignored it, it would ring again. Crossing his fingers, he picked the call.
“H..Hello?” He shakily said.
“Hello, Shane.” The voice on the other end was feminine and familiar. “It’s Agnes.”
Shane breathed a sigh of relief. And then a confused look appeared on his face.
“Agnes?” He raised an eyebrow. “This isn’t your line.”
“I’m using a payphone.” She said. “Eddie left my place not long ago.”
“Have you heard from Harry?” Shane asked.
‘No.” She replied “Still nothing.”
“Okay…..Wait why did you call?”
“Shane.” Agnes hesitated. “I think….”
The phone slipped out of Agnes hand as she stood in shock. She had been alone at the payphone counter and it was already night. The area had been deserted and the payphone counter was located a few feet away from a woods. But that wasn’t what made her go pale as a ghost.
She shivered as she saw two glowing dots right at the darkness from the woods. They moved and then she gasped as they were revealed to be eyes. Golden deadly eyes.
“Agnes?” She could barely hear Shane’s voice at the other end.
The owner of the eyes came out into the light and advanced towards her….

Spare agnes

Edisa:
Spare agnes

Yeah,right

Hmmm interesting

Chapter 21

“Agnes?’ Shane called into his phone. “ Agnes?”
There was a long beep meaning the phone went dead.
“Probably network issue or she was out of quarters.” He mused. “Oh well.”
Not paying any attention to it, he climbed up the stairs and had his shower. For the rest of the day, nothing eventful happened. We’ that is aside Michelle’s usual shenanigans. Unbelievably, he was starting to get used to it. It was starting to grow on him. As he climbed up to his room and lay his head, anything that had to do with worry was clear off his head.
So it came to a bit of surprise when he woke up the next day with a bad feeling in his mind. He knew something did not feel right. He paced around his room and checked his phone. There was nothing unusual. No weird calls. No strange messages. Nothing.
Getting to the living room, he met Michelle sitting down and watching a program with a bowl of chips on her lap.
“Morning.” She waved a chip to him as soon as she saw him.
He merely grunted a reply and plopped on the couch beside her. She saw the disturbed look on his face and any witty talk she had planned flew right out of the window.
“Hey.” She nudged him “What’s wrong with you? Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed? Then again with you, every side of the bed is wrong.”
It was supposed to be a joke to lighten him up but she was genuinely concerned.
“What?” He had been a bit absent minded and shook his head back to reality. “ Nothing. I just don’t feel good.”
“Oh you ate something bad?”
“Not like that. Like I feel something is not right somewhere. I’ve been having that weird feeling since yesterday. Something is out of place. Something isn’t clicking.”
Michelle hummed but said nothing. She turned her attention back to the TV screen. Both of them said nothing for a while still in their own thoughts. Then Shane remembered something.
“Hey.” He turned to her. “ I remember bringing you here with the aim of checking if you were the werewolf. And if i remember correctly it was just for one month. And one month has passed. Why are you still here?”
“Why? Are you trying to get rid of me?” She countered cheekily with a question of her own.
Shane gave her a look that meant he was not in the mood. She sighed and put the bowl of chips aside. She relaxed into the sofa and laced her fingers together on her lap.
“It’s Michael.” She finally said.
‘Your brother?’ He raised an eyebrow.” What does he have to do with anything?”
“I just couldn’t bare the thought of going back home.” She replied. “Look, me and him were close. Home reminds me of a lot about him. Plus the fact that my father had been brooding couldn’t make it more easier for me. Everything is too much. I need a change in atmosphere.”
Shane softened a bit. Now he understood everything. She was still hurting inside after the loss of her twin brother. And now he understood why she was trying to poke fun at him. This was her way of trying to heal. Trying to get everything off her mind.
“Look. If its so much as a bother to you, I’ll be gone by tomorrow.’ She said.
“No. No.” He quickly said. “I was just wondering that’s all. I’m not trying to get rid of you or anything.”
“Why? You’re already enjoying my company?’ She teased. That grin was back on her face.
“No.” He said plainly. “Don’t flatter yourself.”
She laughed and faced the screen to resume her program. Just like that, everything was back to normal. Shane glanced at her as she laughed at something hilarious. The more he thought about it, the more he realized that they were different and yet alike. They had both lost someone close to them and were trying to heal. Both in different ways. He thought back to yesterday when he visited his brother’s grave. The hallucination he got. That was weird. And that’s when it hit him.
The previous day was the anniversary of his brother’s death. Which meant that yesterday was the night of a full moon. He remembered making that call to Agnes and she told him that she was at a payphone. And there was no way payphones could be inside her house. She was outside in the open. Now he knew why he felt uneasy that morning.
“Shit!” Shane jumped up, startling Michelle.
“Hey, what’s the matter?” She scowled at him. “Are you trying to give me a heart attack?”
He opened his mouth to respond but at that moment, his phone rang. He checked the screen to see Eddie calling.
“Eddie.” He answered the call. “ You wouldn’t believe this but I was about to call you…”
“Shane.” Eddie cut him off. “Something happened last night.”
Shane could hear the tone in his voice. It sounded broken and hoarse.
“Eddie?” He asked. “What’s going on? Are you…”
“Agnes is dead.” Eddie broke the news.

Chapter 22

The phone dropped from Shane’s hand. He stood still in shock. Michelle raised an eyebrow and looked at him. Shane got a hold of himself and picked up the phone. “Eddie?”
The phone had gone dead.
“Eddie? Eddie?!” He tried again.
“Bleep!” Shane screamed.
Michelle was now on her feet and held him by the shoulders.
“What is it?” She asked. “What happened?”
Shane didn’t give a reply. He stood still like someone hypnotized. He couldn’t believe what he just heard. Agnes was dead. But how? And then only one thing could come to his mind. Oh he hoped to heaven that it wasn’t what he was suspecting.
“Shane.” Michelle shook him violently and he came to.
“What happened?” She asked again. “Why are you acting strange?! What’s going on?”
“A friend of mine died last night.” He said.
“What?” Michelle said.
“I have to go and see her boyfriend. He’s the one who broke the news.” Shane said.
“I’m coming along.” Michelle said.
Shane nodded and went upstairs to fetch his keys. He was back and minutes later they were out of the house.
Michelle stared at him in worry as he drove along. Once every minute he changed speed and nearly knocked over people on the road. Michelle had to hold onto her seat for support. Even the seatbelts weren’t enough.
As soon as the duo got to Eddie’s house, Shane knocked. It took a while before the door opened and Eddie’s rough facial appearance greeted them.
Michelle gasped a bit, placing a hand over her mouth and Shane stood in utter shock. He couldn’t recognize his best friend one bit. Eddie looked like he hadn’t slept in days. His white shirt was slacked and his hair disheveled. His eyes were bloodshot and had bags under them.
“Hey, man.” Shane reached forward and pulled him in his arms. “I’m so sorry.”
Eddie said nothing. All he did was vibrate as the emotions tore through his body and he sobbed in his friends arms. Michelle watched the action with a sad expression on her face. It was too much for her. It was almost like watching the replay of her reaction on receiving the news of her brother’s death. She remembered that night after seeing his body. She had cried for days and refused to eat anything. She further remembered the nightmares that pushed her into sleepless nights.
Minutes later, they entered his house. The living room was in utter disarray. Michelle raised her eyebrows and Shane sighed at the bottles lying around. They sat down with Eddie on one sofa, Shane and Michelle sitting sided by side on another.
“How did this happen?” Shane asked.
“I don’t even know how to start. “ Eddie sighed tiredly. “I got a call from my neighbor. He told me everything. They said she had scratches all over her body. Like she was attacked by an animal or something.”
Shane and Michelle shared a look. Shane clenched his fists as he assimilated his friend’s words. He knew what that meant.
Just then there was a knock on the door.
“You expecting someone?” Shane asked.
“No.” Eddie shook his head.
The door opened and Harry stepped in. Shane stood up from his seat in shock as that was the last person he ever expected to see. He noted that Harry looked a bit dull and his eyes were downcast.
“You.” Shane snapped, taking everyone aback.
“What? ” Harry was confused on seeing the look. “What did I do?”
“So now you think it’s cool to show up at this moment.” Shane replied. “Where the hell have you been all these while?”
“What do you mean where have I been?’ Harry was angry now. “I’ve been busy. And why wont I come now. Agnes was my cousin!”
“So you care now?” Shane taunted.
“Of course I care what do you expect.?”
“Funny that doesn’t sound believable.”
Harry made to answer but Shane cut him off. He remembered something. His suspicions grew.
“It doesn’t matter. Show me your arm.” Shane said.
“Excuse me?” Harry raised his eyebrows.
“Your arm!” Shane bellowed, startling everyone.
Harry sighed and extended his arm. Shane’s eyes narrowed as he confirmed his suspicions. The wound gotten that fateful night on the first time they were attacked was gone.
His hand had healed.
Before anyone said anything. Shane stormed off.

Chapter 23

“Don’t you think you’re overreacting or something?” Michelle shook her head as Shane drove along the road.
“Oh I’m not overreacting.” He replied. “ You just saw what I saw back there. That guy’s wound had healed.”
“Not fully.” Michelle said. “Remember there was still a little scar.”
“It doesn’t change anything.” Shane muttered as he nearly knocked over another person out of the road. “Harry is the werewolf and I’ve gotten my proof.”
“That’s proof enough for you?” Michelle stared at him in disbelief.
“What else do you want. You heard what your dad said. Anyone bitten or scratched by the werewolf turns to one. And then again harry just goes absent for more than two months and the same werewolf shows up lie thrice? Come on. That ain’t no fucking coincidence.”
Michelle said nothing and folded her arms with a huff. Shane ignored her and drove on. The fire in his eyes was ignited. He cursed himself for forgetting to carry his gun. Something he would have used to solve that problem once and for all. He would taken Harry to the after life and be done with all these nonsense.
Getting to the hose, Shane barely muttered a reply to the twins who were playing outside and stormed right inside. The twins looked at each other in confusion and sent a questioning gaze to Michelle who was just about to enter the house.
“Sorry. Just one of his bad days.” She smiled apologetically at them before she made her way inside.
Shane made his way into the kitchen and headed straight to the drawer where he put the weapon. Surprise crossed his face when he opened it to find the weapon missing.
“What the…” He raised an eyebrow.
He opened another one to also find it missing too.
“Looking for something?” He turned around to see Michelle leaning by the entrance with her arms folded and a blank look on her face.
“Yeah.’ He replied. “My gun”
“Oh that?” She raised her brows. “I hid it away.”
“You did what!” Shane cried out in rage. “Why the Bleep will you do that?!”
“Because I can.” Michelle leaned away from the door and gave him a scathing look. “And because I suspected you might end up doing something stupid. Turns out I was right.”
“Are you out of your fucking mind?!” Shane yelled at her. “There is a werewolf on the loose right now and you’re trying to prevent me from getting rid of it.”
“Not exactly.” A voice called out from the living room
Shane raised his eyebrows in surprise at the sound of the new voice. He moved past Michelle and entered the living room. Roxanne stood by the open door. She was in her uniform and there was an unimpressed look on her face.
“ Detective Perry, what are you doing here?” Shane questioned.
“I called her.” Michelle answered.
Shane gave her a questioning look.
“How did you get her…” He began.
“Took it right from your phone days ago.” Michelle replied.
Shane groaned. He did not need to asked how she did that. She was getting more and more cunning the more she stayed in his house. Now that he thought about it, he was wishing he actually got rid of her after a month.
“Look, I’m here to make sure you don’t do anything you might regret later.” Roxanne said. “If you kill that man, you will end up being arrested.”
“That is not a man. He is a monster!” Shane yelled.
“But you don’t know that.” Roxanne countered. “If you charge there like a deranged slowpoke and just shoot a man dead, how is it going to look? Furthermore, I should have seized that gun long ago.”
Shane grumbled and folded his arms. Roxanne almost laughed. He looked like a child that had his candy taken away. But then a dreaded look appeared on her face.
“I was attacked by a werewolf yesterday on duty.” She said.
Shane and Michelle’s eyes widened in shock. Shane dropped his hands to his sides and his eyes went pale.
“Did It….” Shane began.
“No, I scared it away with some gunshots.”
“How do I believe that? How do I believe it didn’t touch you?” Shane narrowed it’s eyes at her.
“You can come check for yourself.”
“Shane walked towards her and held her hands. On seeing nothing, he tilted her head sideways to check her neck. Still nothing.
“Satisfied?” Roxanne said.
“Not yet.” There was a bit of a mischievous glint in his eye. “There is still one place I haven’t checked.
Before she could ask, he made to put his hand into her shirt. An action that earned him a heavy slap across the face.
“What the hell?” He cried out both in shock and pain, rubbing his stung cheek. Michelle held her stomach in laughter.
“That’s for being a pervert.” Roxanne fumed, putting a protective hand across her chest. “I could arrest you for sexual assault, you know that, right?”
Shane grumbled.
“Anyway, since I now fully buy into this werewolf saga, I’ve called someone to handle it.” Roxanne said.
‘Who?” Shane asked.
“A soldier. My ex-boyfriend, Collins.” She said.
“You really think a soldier can handle a werewolf.” Shane stared at her in utter disbelief.
“Yea he can.” She replied.
Not fully convinced, Shane sighed and moved to the kitchen leaving the two women to talk. He pulled out his phone and called Eddie.
“Hey, Man. You just left in a weird way.” Eddie’s voice seemed clearer.
“Yeah sorry about that. “ Shane sighed. “Where’s harry?”
“He left moments ago.” Eddie replied.
“Can you do me a favor?” Shane asked.
“Yeah, sure.”
“Help me keep tabs on him.”

Chapter 24

Shane stood by an alley waiting for someone. He covered his face discretely with his sacrf around his mouth to reveal nly his eyes. He was there that evening for one purpose and he didn’t want anyone spoiling his plans.
He looked at his watch impatiently and grumbled in annoyance. What was taken this guy so long. He hadn’t taken the fill for almost two weeks and he was getting crankier day by day.
Footsteps to his right alerted him and he glanced to see someone step into the light. It was a young guy dressed in a long coat and faded jeans with red hair, pale skin and eyes that seemed unfocused. Shane rolled his eyes and walked towards him.
“Took you long enough.” He said.
“Hey man, business has been hectic today.” The red head laughed in a crazy manner. “:You can’t blame me.”
“You have it?” Shane asked expectantly.
“Of course I do. I’m the best at what I do.” The red head replied. He fished out a black bag from his coat. “How many.”
“Ten bags.” Shane said.
“The Bleep?!” The red head opened his eyes wide in shock. “Are you serious?”
“Do I look like I’m joking, dude.” Shane scowled at him.
“No it’s just that you’ve never ordered this much. Your highest has always been five bags.”
“Well I’ve been through some shit in the past weeks. You can’t blame me.” Shane sighed.
“Awesome.” The red head pulled out ten transparent small nylons each containing the familiar green content. His eyes widened in glee at the prospect of a good business deal. He handed them to Shane and Shane gave him a huge wad of cash.
“Sweet.” The redhead counted the money in glee. “ Nice doing business with you, bro.”
He disappeared into the alleyway as quickly as he came. Shane smiled wryly and examined the contents. This would be a nice reprieve.
He entered the house and passed the kitchen. Michelle was by the stove with her back to him. He smiled in gratitude and was about to climb the stairs to his room when…
“I smell weed.”
He nearly lost his footing as his eyes widened in shock. Turning around he saw Michelle staring at him with a smile and her arms folded across the apron.
“How did….” Shane stuttered. “I mean what are you talking….”
“Oh don’t play coy with me.” She shook her head. “I’m very sharp and have keen eyes. You of all people should have known that by now.”
Shane sighed, resigning his fate.
“This is the part where you call the detective, right?” He said.
‘On the contrary.” She stepped towards him and pulled one of the contents out of his pocket. “I think I’m going to have one for myself.”
Shane stood with his mouth wide open like a fish.
“Come on, your not the only one who smokes. I got friends back home who do.” She winked at him.
“Wow..I..” He couldn’t get anything out.
“Just go up and take a shower.” She chuckled, nudging him up the stairs. “Dinner will be ready soon. Besides, you smell like a wolf’s ass.”
Shane frowned at her.
“Sorry.” She quickly covered her mouth. “Wrong choice of words.”
“Got that right.” He sighed and climbed up the stairs.
The shower was going to wait. He was so exhausted and he needed a bit of a shut eye. As soon as he slumped on the bed, his phone rang.
“Oh for Bleep’s sake!” He groaned and pulled it out. He raised an eyebrow on seeing Roxanne’s name on the screen.
‘Detective perry?” He said.
“Hello, Shane.” She answered. ‘There’s news. The soldier I told you about just arrived yesterday. Come over to my place. I’ll text you the address soon.”
“Alright.” He mumbled tiredly.
“And bring Michelle along.” She added.
“Right.”
The call cut and he laid his head on the pillow. His phone chimed signaling a message. Expecting it to be her address, Shane opened it only to see something unexpected.
It was a message from Jaime along with a picture. The woman whose husband nearly took his life. She wore a raunchy lingerie and posed on the bed. Below the picture was the caption:
‘Join me?’
Shane hissed in anger and switched off his phone.

Happy Sunday

everton4life:
Happy Sunday

Happy Sunday to you too ..
Sorry I've been absent..I'm back now...
Nice piece

But why is Roxane a suspect to me??

Chapter 25

“Glad you could make it.” There was a smile on Roxanne’s face as she opened the door and ushered Shane and Michelle in.
“Not like I had a choice.” Shane replied. ‘I need to get this freak out of my life for good. Besides you would have come over to drag me out even if I refused your invitation.”
“Now why would I do something like that?” Roxanne gave him an innocent look.
“Yeah, I’m not buying that.” He returned her look with a blank gaze.
The two women laughed as Shane followed them into the back porch. Shane and Michelle stared in awe at the amount of soldiers they met there. They were almost up to ten and they almost had the same physique. Some of them were doing warm-ups while some drank.
“Check out the amount of testosterone here.” Michelle whistled.
Shane stared at her.
“What.” She said.
Just then one of the soldiers saw them. He grinned and walked towards them.
“Hey, Roxanne.” He said.
“Collins.” Roxanne nodded.
Shane took in his appearance. He had short brown hair which was shaved to a buzz cut. There ere hints of a recently shaven moustache above his lips. His grey eyes were keen and his muscular frame towered in intimidating fashion above Shane. Shane gulped and wondered how Roxanne had ever been involved with this sort of person.
“Shane, Michelle.” Roxanne introduced. “This is Collins. Collins, these are my friends, Michelle and Shane.”
“Ah, Shane.” Collins voice boomed. “The guy with the werewolf trouble?”
He clasped Shane’s hand in a strong handshake that the latter feared his hand would come off.
“Good to meet you.” He added.
He then faced Michelle and offered a hand. She smiled and accepted it.
“Good to meet you.” He said.
“Oh the pleasure is all mine.” Michelle said, her eyes glazing over. hEr lips twisted into a wide grin. “All of it.”
Shane rolled his eyes and Roxanne shook her head. Collins pulled his hand back with a bemused expression on his face.
He then faced Roxanne.
“Is he your boyfriend?” He teased.
‘What, No!” Roxanne and Shane chorused. Though if anyone had looked clearer, they would have seen the blush on Roxanne’s face.
“Relax I was joking.” Collins guffawed. “You should see the looks on your faces.”
Roxanne glared at him and cleared her throat.
“Oh right, to business then.” Collins coughed. “You know back when I went on an operation years ago at San Diego we usually heard rumors of werewolves in that place. You know I usually thought there were just stories to scare people away. But then I was getting wind of animal attacks in this city. And to think it was happening once a month. It was no coincidence. My suspicions grew. Then Roxanne here tells me about you, Shane. Then she mentions she was attacked. I was fully sold, Man. I’m on board.”
Shane sighed and nodded in gratitude. Finally, he was getting somewhere. He knew what this meant. The more the allies, the better the chances.
“Of all the wars and fights I’ve had over the years, this may be the biggest one yet.” Collins had a crazed look in his eyes now. His biceps flexed in excitement. “I have a plan worked out. And trust me, by the next full moon. We’re catching ourselves a werewolf.”
“And I’ll finally kill it.” Shane said. He clenched his fist and his eyes narrowed.
“You?” Collins chuckled, raising an eyebrow. “No, man. I’ll take it down.”
“You don’t understand.” Shane was angry now. “This is more than just catching it. This is personal.”
“Don’t get me wrong, Shane. You re not a soldier. But you’ve never killed before.” All traces of humor were gone from Collins face. “You’ve never been on the battle field. So you wouldn’t know what to do when faced with the chance to take a life.”
Shane stood there not believing his ears. But Collins wasn’t done.
“Trust me when I say this.” Collins continued. “If you ever get the chance to see the beast one on one and hold a gun to it, you would freeze. Because it would threaten you with just it’s gaze and you won’t have the balls to take it down.”

Chapter 26

Shane paced around the living room looking at his phone. It was ringing and Eddie was yet to pick up. Today was the day of the full moon. Collins had everything set up and he had invited him, Roxanne and Michelle.
Michelle watched him pace from her position on the couch with an amused look on her face.
“Keep pacing like that and you’re going to give me a migraine.” She said.
He ignored her and stared at his phone.
“Come on’ Eddie. Pick up” He muttered. ‘What’s going on?”
“Why are you even calling Eddie anyway.” Michelle asked. “Is he coming along or something.”
“No.” Shane didn’t take his eyes off his screen one minute. “I just want him to do something.”
There was a clicking sound at the other end meaning the call had been received.
“Hello?’ Eddie’s voice was heard from the other side.
“Finally.” Shane sighed in relief. “You almost had me worried there.”
“Sorry, Man. I had to take care of something. What’s up?”
Shane saw the interrogating look Michelle gave him and the suspicion in her eyes. He quickly moved to the kitchen and spoke in a lower voice.
“Anything of recent?” He asked. ‘What’s the details on Harry?”
“Nothing unusual.” Eddie replied. “He’s going to normal places. A supermarket, coffee shops and stadiums.”
“Hmm.” Shane narrowed his eyes. “Still doesn’t mean we should let our guard down.”
There was silence on the other end except for the breathing.
“Eddie?” Shane asked. “Are you okay?”
“Yeah, I’m fine. I’m just curious though. Are you sure Harry’s the werewolf?”
“A bit.” Shane replied. “But I’m working on something just in case.”
His mind reflected on Collins idea. If they managed to get the werewolf and kill it, he would eventually find out who it was. If it turned out to be Harry, Good. If it didn’t, then he was still rid of it. It was still a win-win scenario.
“Okay.” Eddie said. “Anything unusual, I’ll let you know.”
“Got it.” Shane said and ended the call.
He got to the living room and Michelle gave him an interrogating gaze.
“What was that about?” She asked.
“Nothing serious.” He shrugged. “Just talk between friends.”
Michelle narrowed her eyes as a disbelieving look crossed her face. Shane played calm though the intimidating gaze was almost overwhelming him. Just then his phone rang.
‘Saved by the bell.’ He sighed inwardly in relief. ‘So to speak.’
He picked up the phone. It was Roxanne on the line.
“You guys might want to come over.” She said and cut the call.
Shane raised his eyebrow. That was brief and unusual of her.
“Roxanne?” Michelle asked.
“Yeah.” Shane replied. “She wants us over.”
“Okay, cool.” Michelle stood up and was about moving out of the city.
“Michelle.” Shane called.
“Yeah?” She turned around.
“Can I have my gun back?” He asked.
Michelle narrowed her eyes at him.
“Trust me this time, I won’t do anything stupid.” He sighed and crossed his heart.
Michelle relented and moved out of the room. She came back and handed the gun to him which he accepted with a curt nod.
In a matter of moments they were out of the house. However on the way, Roxanne called him again.
‘Sorry, there’s been a change in plans. You guys are to meet me in a different place. Collins has everything set up. Ill text you the location.”
She cut the call and moments later his phone chimed. Michelle picked it up and raised her eyebrow.
“Jade forest?” She arched an eyebrow. “Where is that?”
Shane groaned and steered the wheel changing direction.
“I have an idea of where that’ll be.” He muttered.
An hour later, the car stopped at the opening of what looked like the weirdest forest Michelle had ever seen. As she stepped out of the car, her eyes widened and her mouth opened.
“Well, just when I thought I’ve seen it all.” She mumbled.
They both entered the forest and before long they could see a group of tents far off. Getting loser, they saw the outline of Roxanne talking to some soldier. As soon as she spotted them approach, she waved and walked over to them.
“Glad you guys could make it.” She said.
“Yeah. But you owe me money for gas.” Shane grumbled.
“Hey, it wasn’t my fault. Things just changed.”
“Right.”
Just then Collins head appeared from one of the tents.
“Finally, you guys are here.” He beamed. “Come in.”
They entered his tent. The were lots of tables with maps and plans. At the far end, there was a makeshift whiteboard with what looked like the diagram of a trap containing an animal. Squinting his eyes further, Shane discovered the animal was a perfectly drawn werewolf. Not like the ones he saw but close enough. He turned to Collins and gave him a confused gaze.
“That right there is how we would get your werewolf.” Collins said and brandished a device out of his pocket. It looked like a small digital phone and a green dot beeped.
“You see that?” He indicated the green dot. “That’s a cow. If there’s one thing I noticed, the werewolf attacks have been happening in places where at least some animals are located. And the human victims just happened to be nearby.”
Shane nodded even though the look on his face showed utter confusion.
“You’re sure this is going to work?” He asked.
“As sure as the full moon coming out tonight.” Collins chuckled.
Everyone gave him a flat look.
“Sorry.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “Terrible joke.”
He quickly excused himself out of the tent before the situation could get even more awkward.
Hours later, the full moon had come out in full view. Shane stood outside his tent watching it, his gaze thoughtful.
Roxanne came out to join him.
“Hey.” She said.
“Hey.” He replied.
They both said nothing for a while. Shane stared sideways at her discreetly. The illumination of the moonlight on her face made her look different. He couldn’t put a finger on it but he could feel his heart beating more than normal just by looking at her face. She looked tough and yet gentle at the same time. She turned sideways to look at him and he quickly looked away.
“You think this is going to work?” He asked.
“It should.” Roxanne replied. “Collins has fought a lot of enemies.”
“But not a werewolf.” Shane faced her, a serious look in his eyes.
Just then Collins and Michelle came out. Collins had an excited grin as he brandished the device to their faces. Shane noticed a red dot along side the green one.
“Jackpot.” Collins said. “We’ve got that hairy son of a bitch.”

Chapter 27

Shane and Roxanne stood there with disbelieving stares.
“Hold on a second.” Shane finally said. ‘Hold on a damn second. Are you trying to tell me that the werewolf is caught. The werewolf is in that cage right now?”
“Did I speak French?” Collins asked. “Of course it’s there. Come along.”
He pulled out his gun and corked it then signaled for two soldiers who stood by their tents to come along. They all took off towards the direction of the trap with Collins leading the way.
As they ran, Shane’s heart pounded uncontrollably. This was the moment he had been waiting for what seemed like ages. Finally this was the say the beast would be put down for good. He put his hand inside his pocket and felt his gun and clenched it tightly. His face squeezed in anger as he suddenly remembered his conversation with Collins earlier. The soldier wanted to be the one to slay the beast. Shane suddenly felt a mix of envy and anger. Why should the soldier take all the glory. He had never experienced any loss caused by that monster. If anyone was to take it down, it was meant to be himself.
Just then they reached the clearing. Shane gasped as he stared at the large cage in front of him. Roxanne and Michelle stood rooted to the spot. Shane swallowed and stepped forward to take a better look. Sure enough like Collins said, the device he held proved accurate. The werewolf was caught.
Shane shivered as the black furry beast stared at them with pure rage in it’s eyes. Shane noted that it even looked bigger than the last time he saw it. It looked even more muscular too. Either that or his eyes were playing tricks on him. It’s coat was stained with blood and lying at his feet was what was meant to be remains of the cow it was meant to be trapped with.
Collins pulled out his gun and aimed it at the werewolf. The beast sent a challenging gaze at him and he hesitated.
“Shoot it.” Shane said.
Collins paused.
“Shoot it, for bleeps sake! What are you waiting for?!” Shane turned to him angrily.
Collins aimed and shot the werewolf. Shane sighed in relief as the monster slumped down. Then his eyes widened as he discovered the dart in the werewolf’s shoulder. Then it dawn on him. Collins didn’t kill it. He just tranquilized it.
‘What the actual Bleep?!” Shane turned to him with anger blazing his eyes. “You were supposed to kill it!”
“Sorry, guys.” Collins faced Shane with a blank look, then turned to Michelle and Roxanne momentarily. “Change of plans. I got orders.”
“Orders my ass.” Shane charged towards him. “ Listen to me, you son of a …”
Collins shut him up, literally, with a dart to the neck. Shane grunted as he fell to the ground, the effects starting to work immediately.
“What the hell, Collins!” Roxanne shrieked.
Michelle clenched her fists at him. Before they could do anything, they each received their share of shots as Collins shot them in quick succession. He nodded to his comrades and they went into the forest.
‘Sorry it had to come this way but my superior has plans for this bad boy.” He nodded towards the werewolf. “He wants to use it as a weapon. We’ve fought too many wars. Lost some. We want to tip the scales in our favor. And this big bad wolf may just be the key.”
He bent down and ran a hand towards Roxanne. The rage was clear in her eyes though she couldn’t move.
“Sorry it had to come this way.” He said softly. “I really hope we stop having this kind of history between us.”
He walked towards the cage where the werewolf lay unmoving. He opened it and inspected the beast.
“Nice.” He nodded. ‘This should…”
The werewolf suddenly sprang up. Before Collins had the time to be surprised, it quickly grabbed him and bit into his shoulder, then knocked him to the ground. The last thing Shane saw and heard before he slumped into unconsciousness was the blurry figure of the monster carrying a frantically screaming Collins over his shoulder and leaping away…

Chapter 28

Shane woke up with a cold sweat. He looked around and found out he was in an unfamiliar place. Blinking, he realized he was in a tent. Which definitely meant he was back in camp.
“Easy.” A hand was placed on his shoulder to steady him. He looked up and saw a soldier looming over him. He glanced around and saw Roxanne lying on a bed not far away.
“What happened?” He asked the soldier. ‘Where’s Collins?”
The gloomy expression on the soldier’s face was enough o give him an answer. The solider got up.
“You should take it easy. Your body isn’t strong enough yet. I have to attend to something” He said and left.
Shane laid his head back on the bed as soon as the soldier departed. He clenched his fist as anger and sorrow washed through him. He couldn’t believe Collins betrayed them like that. He glanced over to the sleeping Roxanne. Her face looked peaceful and if it wasn’t for the steady rising and falling of her chest, one would have assumed she was dead. Shane’s eyes lowered a bit. He knew Collins and her were no longer an item but did he really have to go too far. Tranquilizing her along with him and Michelle like they were some kind of wild animals. In a way, that son of bitch got what he deserved.
Shane couldn’t help but worry though. Collins might have been gone but that left one problem. Thanks to his selfishness and stupidity, the werewolf was still on the loose. And if care wasn’t taken, it would claim another victim. Just then, realization filled him and he sat up straight. If he remembered correctly, a full moon didn’t appear just once in a moth. This meant there would be a possibility of another full moon today.
He heard footsteps outside and soon enough, to his surprise, a fully recovered Michelle stepped into his tent, and, to his bigger surprise, Eddie followed.
“Eddie?” Shane adjusted himself fully.
“Oh, man. Thank goodness you’re okay.” Eddie rushed towards him.
“How did you know I was…” Shane began.
He paused as he saw the grin on Michelle’s face as she dangled his phone in her hand.
“Never mind.” He muttered.
“I heard what happened.” Eddie said.
“Yeah.” Shane replied. “Once again, fortune manages to smile on me.”
“Got that right.” Eddie smiled.
‘Any info on Harry.’ Shane asked.
‘Yeah,” Eddie sghed. He rubbed the back of his head and stood up, facing away.
“Eddie?” Shane pressed on.
“He went out blast night.” Eddie said. “He never came back.”
Shane growled and sat up.
“I knew it!” He cried out. “That son of a bitch is the werewolf.”
Michelle frowned and put her hands on her hips.
‘So this was all that was about yesterday. You made that call to keep tabs on Harry?’
“At least now I know I was right.” He said.
Michelle huffed and rolled her eyes. She then made her way out of the tent.
“What’s up with her?” Shane stared at her retreating form in confusion.
“You know.” Eddie said. “Maybe she has her doubts or something. I cant really tell.”
“Well, that’s her problem. What matters is that I’m right. And that asshole is going down.” Shane folded his arms smugly.
Eddie didn’t reply. He had a pensive look on his face. A look that showed him to be fighting with his inner thoughts.
“Shane.” He turned to his friend.
“Yeah.” Shane answered.
Eddie opened his mouth but still no words could come out.
‘What is it Eddie.” Shane asked.
“Never mind.” Eddie managed a small smile. “You should rest now. I ll go home and do one or two things. Ill check on you later.”
“Oh? Okay.” Shane nodded half confused.
He watched as Eddie quickly moved out of the tent.
“What’s up with him?” He wondered “Why is everyone acting out of character today?”
‘It could be something in the air.’
Shane jumped a bit as the figure of Sam materialized beside him. It gave him an amused look.
“For Bleep’s sake.” Shane put a hand over his heart. ‘Don’t scare me like that little bro.”
‘I don’t know why you are yelling at me.” The figure chuckled. “Youre the one whpo summoned me her.”
“Maybe.” Shane folded his arms. ‘But still,couldn’t you have appeared in another place. You know, like in front of me or something?
‘I don’t even know why we’re having this conversation in the first place.’ The figure shook his head.
Shane stared at him for a while and then chuckled. The figure chuckled along.
“You know even while you’re gone, we still keep disagreeing on something.” Shane said.
‘You’re disagreeing with your hallucination’ The figure replied. ‘Remember, Sam is gone.’
The smile left Shane’s face and his eyes lowered. There was silence for a while as he stared ahead.
‘What troubles you?’ The figure asked.
“This whole thing is all my fault.” Shane replied tearing up a bit. “I should have listened to you. I should have listened to that old geezer. If I did that and left that place that night. None of this would have happened. Juliana would have still been alive.”
He paused and faced the figure.
“You would have still been here and we would have gotten into another argument by now.” Shane added and they both laughed.
‘It is true that you fumbled and messed up.’ The figure said, ignoring the scowl on Shane’s face. ‘But what makes a man is not the mistakes he makes, but the facts that he owns up to them and makes attempt to correct them.’
The figure glanced at the corner of the tent and back to Shane.
‘I’ve done my part to be there for you.’ He said. ‘And now it’s time to do your part. Someone needs you.’
The figure disappeared before Shane could ask what he meant. He heard stirring and then a groan. He then saw Roxanne open her eyes.
He didn’t know where the new found strength came from but he was able to quickly stand up and rush over to her.
“Hey, Roxanne.” He smiled and placed a hand over her forehead. “Welcome back.”
“Hey” She smiled weakly, her voice groggy. “How long have I been out?”
“Can’t say.” Shane replied. “Not up to twenty four hours that’s for sure.”
She nodded and closed her eyes a bit. Shane watched her eyes furrow as she tried to process all that happened yesterday night. Just then her eyes shot wide open and she sat up quickly.
“Collins?” She said. ‘Where’s Collins?”
Shane lowered his eyes and looked away. Roxanne gave him a curious look and tilted his head to face her.
“Shane?” She had a pleading look in her eyes.
“Collins is dead.” Shane finally gave in. “The werewolf killed him.”
Roxanne gasped, her eyes wide open. “But how? I thought it was tranquilized.”
“I thought so too, but turns out it was playing possum. Apparently, one tranquilizer wasn’t enough to take it down. Collins opened the cage to inspect it and that’s when it attacked. It mauled him and dragged him off. So it turns out, we’re back to square one.” Shane said grimly and looked away.
He clenched his fists in annoyance at the self reminder. If only he saw the deception coming. Collins had played them all for suckers. And what even hurt the most was that Shane had the gun with the silver bullets right in his pocket! If only he had made the first move…
He heard small sobs and turned around in surprise. The normally beautiful face of Roxanne was drenched in tears.
“Hey.” Shane said softly.” What’s…”
“He has always been that way. “She sniffed. “Collins. He always thought about himself. A selfish, self centered jerk. He considered what his actions could do to anyone. That was why we broke up. After all these years, I thought he would have changed. But it turns out I was wrong. He is even worse than before. What hurts worse is what he did to us last night. He didn’t even give it a second thought.”
Shane put his arm around her and she leaned her head on his shoulder, letting her emotions flow.
“It’s going to be okay, Roxanne.” He said as he held her and rocked her softly. ‘This is going to be over soon.”
“I swear with my life.” A new fire sparked in his eyes.

YoungBruzzy:
It’s a good thing that Shane is getting all the help he could get. Because It would be a disaster to lose him as well after his brother.
Somewhere within me, ive always had this feeling that Collins is a time bomb waiting to explode � and the idiot prove me right afterall ;
Now that Another werewolf was born in person of Collins, since just a scratch or bite from a werewolf is capable of getting someone infected. Take the case of Harry for example, but we aren’t sure yet whether he is now a werewolf or not. Double wahala for Shane and co if truly Collins is infected.

Keep the updates rolling in Man
More ink to your pen �

it's still one werewolf. The werewolf has killed Collins. No infection. Nothing. Straight up killed him. But thanks for the comments.

YoungBruzzy:
It’s a good thing that Shane is getting all the help he could get. Because It would be a disaster to lose him as well after his brother.
Somewhere within me, ive always had this feeling that Collins is a time bomb waiting to explode � and the idiot prove me right afterall ;
Now that Another werewolf was born in person of Collins, since just a scratch or bite from a werewolf is capable of getting someone infected. Take the case of Harry for example, but we aren’t sure yet whether he is now a werewolf or not. Double wahala for Shane and co if truly Collins is infected.

Keep the updates rolling in Man
More ink to your pen �

Lol, so with all the clues, you still think Harry is the werewolf no my friend, it's Eddie

Chapter 29

“I’m still not sold about you leaving me in the dark like that.” Michelle fumed as Shane drove along the road.
It was just hours past noon. That morning as soon as he and Roxanne had the strength to move about, they were permitted to leave the camp. Shane drove out first with Michelle, Roxanne following behind in her own car.
Although Shane had plans of his own. He was not going to go home. He was going straight to Harry’s house. Today was the day he was to settle this once and for all. And this time there was nothing that would get in his way.
“Look, sorry about that.” He replied to Michelle. “But I had to have a contingency plan. I had to be sure.”
Michelle was still upset with him as soon as he had fully recovered earlier. She had ignored and kept malice until he decided to do the one thing he had never done before: Beg a woman. She had relented a bit.
“Okay.” The frown left her face.
“So, are we cool now?” He asked her as they turned around a corner.
“Yeah.” She pouted. “A bit. But don’t do things like that again.”
“Yes, ma’am.” He mock saluted.
“I’m serious.” She chuckled, punching his arm lightly.
All was silent between them for a while. Shane glanced to the side and saw Michelle with a thoughtful expression on her face. The traces of mischief he had come to know were gone from her eyes. She almost looked like a stranger at that point.
“Hey, what’s up with you?” He asked.
She leaned back on her seat and a tiny sigh escaped her lips.
“It’s my father.” She finally said.
“The old geez..” He paused as he sent him a vicious glare. “I mean your dad? What’s up with him? Is he okay?”
“No.” She shook her head. “He’s ill. Terribly ill. I got a call from home yesterday. He hasn’t eaten or slept for days.”
Shane heaved and turned his eyes away from her back to the road. In a way, the old man had come to grow on him. Not in a father-son way but at least in a guardian way. Shane thought wryly at the irony of their second meeting. He had nearly put a bullet through the old man’s head. But the composure and lack of fear from the old man was quite intriguing. And the fact that he carefully and calmly explained everything. The sincerity that his eyes showed were enough. Thinking about it now, Shane realized that he acted out of anger that day.
“I think you should go and see him.” He faced Michelle. “I’m guessing it’s the effect of loneliness or something. You know, first the loss of his son. And then you leaving.”
“Not like I had a choice then.” She gave him a look.
“Okay, so maybe I was paranoid then.” He raised his hand a bit in surrender. “You can’t blame me. But now that it turns out I was wrong, isn’t it about time you go back and see him. And before you open your mouth to accuse me of getting rid of you, i want to say you can always come back to my place.”
“Really?” She had a plain look on her face but her voice couldn’t betray her excitement.
“Yeah.” He nodded. “In a way I’ve gotten used to your obnoxiousness. It has become a part of my house. It wouldn’t be the same without you.”
“Should I feel complemented or insulted?” She frowned playfully.
“It’s up to you.” He grinned at her.
The sun had just gone down when they stopped in front of Harry’s house. The playful atmosphere was gone and tension filled the air as Shane and Michelle stepped out of the car. Just about a minute later, Roxanne’s car pulled over beside them. She stepped out with a tired look in her eyes.
“Remember the plan?” She walked towards them.
“Yeah.” Shane clenched his fist as he glared towards Harry’s doorstep. “We walk over there right now and shoot him dead.”
Michelle and Roxanne gave him a very disapproving glare.
“Fine.” He huffed. “No killing. At least not until confirmation. Relax, I was kidding.”
“I’m almost inclined not to believe that.” Roxanne deadpanned.
“Do you believe that?” She turned to Michelle.
“Not one bit.” Michelle shook her head with her arms folded.
“Alright, already.” Shane grumbled exasperatedly. “Let’s get this over with.”
The trio marched towards the door with cautious steps. As soon as they reached, Shane knocked on the door. Waiting for minutes, they got no reply. He glared at the door and knocked again. Still nothing.
“ Maybe he’s not around?” Michelle offered.
“Bleep this!” Shane snarled and kicked the door. It didn’t budge.
“Isn’t that a cop’s thing?” Roxanne raised her eyebrow at him. “You know, my thing?”
“Or we could try something else. “Shane replied.
He grumbled as he looked around on the floor for something. Michelle and Roxanne stared at him in confusion, then at each other and shrugged. Almost giving up, Shane looked up and on seeing Michelle, an idea pooped into his head.
“Hey, Michelle. Give me your hair pin.” He said.
“Excuse me?” Michelle deadpanned.
“Just do it.” He demanded.
“Okay, fine.” Michelle muttered as she pulled the hair pin out of her hair, letting it fall to her shoulder. She handed it over to him.
“Thanks.” He accepted it and bent down towards the keyhole.
‘Wait a minute.” Roxanne shook her head. “Are you trying to break into someone’s house?”
“Maybe.” He gave her an innocent look.
“That’s against the law!” Roxanne cried out. “You’re breaking the law? Right in front of an officer for that matter? You really have some nerve.”
Shane sighed in frustration and stood up straight.
“Listen.” He pinched the bridge of his nose. “There are lives at stake.”
“You see that?” He pointed towards the sky and they looked upwards as the full moon began to appear. “That’s another full moon. A werewolf will strike today. Now you can either support me and help me solve this or you can keep kissing the law’s ass and watch another person die this night.”
Roxanne didn’t give a reply. Instead she sighed in defeat. Shane smiled and bent down to resume his actions.
‘I’m so going to get fired.’ Roxanne groaned in thought.
Minutes later, the two women heard a click on the door. Shane stood straight and faced them with a triumphant grin.
“Voila.” He said, pushing the door wide open. “After you, ladies.”
“Why thank you, kind sir.” Michelle giggled and bowed gracefully.
Roxanne rolled her eyes and followed her inside, Shane entering last and shutting the door. The lights were off in the living room. Shane felt the wall and found the switch. He activated it and everywhere became bright. The living room was in orderly fashion. On the mahogany table in the middle lay a bunch of magazines. Michelle peeped at the window outside in a lookout fashion while Roxanne picked one of her magazines. She rolled her eyes as her lips twitched in disgust. Shane caught her look and walked towards her.
“What’s up?” He asked.
“Is this what you men spend your spare time doing?” She showed him the cover. It was obviously a playboy magazine with a barely clothed woman in front.
“Some men.” He corrected with a sly grin. “I go for the real thing.”
“What?” Roxanne tilted her head sideways.
“Trust me, babe. You don’t want to know.” Michelle said, not taking her eyes off the window. Just then her eyes widened and she let out a gasp.
“Guys!” She cried out in a whisper. “He’s coming. Harry’s coming!”
“Shit!” Shane cursed as they all began to scramble. Shane switched off the light. Roxanne dropped the magazine and scurried towards the door. She and Michelle stood at the left side of it with their backs against the wall. Shane mirrored their actions at the right side of the door. Their heats began to beat fast as the footsteps got louder.
Harry sighed as he opened the door of his house and stepped inside. He looked exhausted and his shirt was rumpled. The facial hair all over his face was quite visible for anyone to see. He let out a lazy yawn. Then realization hit him as soon as he stepped past the door and the exhaustion left him, replaced by worry.
“Wait a minute.” He turned around. “My door was supposed to be…..”
The last thing he saw was a huge fist towards his face and all went black.

Chapter 30

Harry awoke with a groan of pain. His head pounded thoroughly. It was almost like an army was marching within. He blinked his eyes and felt the cool breeze on him.
‘Wait a minute’ He thought. ‘Breeze?’
He opened his eyes fully and discovered to his horror that he was out in the fields. He could see some tents nearby and he was facing directly to the entrance of a forest. He looked downwards He was tied to a chair with strong ropes around his upper body and across his legs.
“What the…” He grumbled and struggled.
“Well, well, well. Look who’s finally awake.” He heard a familiar voice nearby.
Harry looked up as Shane, Roxanne and Michelle came out of a tent.
“Hello, sunshine.” Shane said casually.
“So it was you?” Harry looked up in anger. “What the hell is this?”
“That’s not the way it works around here.” Shane shook his head. “I’ll be the one asking the questions.”
“So what is this?” Harry raised his eyebrows. “Good cop? Bad cop?”
He turned to face Roxanne.
“And you?” He said. “You’re in on this? A detective? Do you realize I can sue the police department for kidnapping?”
“Shut the Bleep up!” Shane slapped him across the face. “I said I’ll be the one doing the asking here.”
“Was that really necessary?” Michelle frowned at him.
“Oh, come on.” Shane rolled his eyes. “This fucker had it coming for a long time.”
“Now back to you.” Shane turned to him. “Where the hell were you last night?”
Harry glared at Shane with pure hatred in his eyes. This would be the second time he would hit him and he wouldn’t be able to do anything about it. If he ever got out of this chair, someone was going to get seriously hurt.
“What do you mean? I went on an outing. I went to a bar.” Harry snorted.
“Don’t give me that shit.” Shane snapped at him. “You don’t drink.”
“Well a lot changed after Juliana passed away.” Harry retorted. “You of all people should know how much the death of one person can change another.”
“I’m not buying this crap.” Shane scowled. “You’ve been missing for more than two full moons. And each time you are, a werewolf appears and kills someone. First Sam, then Agnes!”
“Are you seriously out of your mind?” Harry could not believe his ears. “You think I’m a werewolf? And you really think I would kill my own cousin?!”
“Last time you and i checked, werewolves loses their humanity when they shift. They don’t know who is friend or foe. All they think about is murder and hunger. So your last argument doesn’t even hold water.” Shane said dryly.
“I’m sorry to say, but you’ve lost your damn mind!” Harry yelled, startling the three of them. “I’m not a werewolf. All of you are insane!”
“Are we?” Shane folded his arms. “Because the last time I checked, you got scratch on your arm when the werewolf hit you and Eddie that night.”
“I got the scratch because I fell roughly on the ground, you idiot!” Harry retorted.
Shane had enough. He pulled out his gun from his pocket.
“Shane.” Roxanne stared at him carefully. Michelle scowled at him.
“Listen here.” He ignored the two women and aimed the gun at Harry’s forehead.. “I’m not here to joke around. The full moon is out and before you reveal your true color, I’m going to send you to the afterlife.”
“And if you turn out to be wrong? If I’m not a werewolf?” Harry gave him a blank look.
Shane turned his gaze towards the two women. They gave him a look as if to admonish him. He then turned back to Harry.
“Yeah, that’s what I thought.” Harry continued. “You would have killed an innocent man and the joke will be on you. If you don’t end up in jail, your conscience will haunt you for life.”
Suddenly, there was a growl nearby. Everyone jolted up in terror. Shane quickly looked at Harry deeply. That sound didn’t come from him.
“See?” Harry cried out in fear as he looked around. “That wasn’t me. Untie me quick! It’s here!”
Before anyone could move, an even louder growl announced the arrival of the werewolf. It jumped out of the woods and landed a few feet away from the four. The moonlight made it’s dark coat shine brighter. It’s claws were out in full and it bared it’s teeth at them.
Roxanne backed away a bit, shivering in fear. Michelle stood rooted to the spot and Shane clenched his gun hesitantly.
“Someone fucking untie me!” Harry yelled frantically as his struggles increased.
His movements seemed to attract the werewolf’s attention to him. For a split second, Shane saw it lick it’s lips at Harry’s direction. Harry noticed too.
“Oh shit.” He said in realization.
In a blind hunger, the monster charged towards them, it’s gaze specifically on Harry.
“Shoot it, Shane!” Michelle yelled.
Shane did nothing. He stood petrified. Now he remembered what Collins told him. Now he understood. There was a difference about talking and action. He had never taken a life before. Now that the opportunity presented himself, he froze.
“Shoot it!” Roxanne’s screams brought him back to reality and he realized to his horror, that the werewolf had closed the gap on them and was dangerously close.
He aimed the gun towards it and fired. Fortune smiled on him, partially as the bullet sank into the monster’s shoulder. It let out a loud yelp of pain and made a U-turn towards the forest. Shane fired more shots but missed as the monster disappeared.
“Bleep.” He cursed.
There was a bit of a hope though. While the werewolf had escaped, it let out a trail of blood. Shane’s eyes perked up and he turned towards the others.
“I’m going after it.” He said to them.
Before he could move, he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned around to see Roxanne with a pleading look in her eyes.
“Be careful.” She said.
He nodded and took off. Moments later he was deep into the forest, the bloody trail still clear. Before long, he could hear labored breaths. His eyes filled with hope. Soon he could see the source of the sound.
The werewolf lay gasping for breath against a large tree with it’s head to the side.. Shane could see the glow was dimming from it’s eyes. It had lost a lot of blood from it’s shoulder wound. It turned towards Shane and gave him a look. Shane understood a look. It was a pleading look. But he did not know what for. Pleading for it’s life or pleading for him to end it’s misery.
Shane’s eyes sparked with rage as he remembered what this monster put him through. It took away the remaining member of his family.
With a shout of fury, he aimed the gun to the werewolf’s heart and fired. The silver bullet nailed it’s target and the werewolf slumped.
Shane sighed tiredly and in relief. It was finally over. Just then, he perked up as the werewolf began to revert. It shrank and lost it’s fur and Shane dropped his gun in pure shock at who was left in the werewolf’s place. It was none other than…
“Eddie?” Shane could barely get the words out.
The bloodied form of Eddie opened his eyes slowly.
“Hey, man.” He smiled weakly and coughed, blood rushing out of his mouth.
“No, no, no.” Shane dropped to his knees. “It can’t be. It’s been you this whole time. But how…”
“I was trying to tell you that time I left the tent.” Eddie coughed again. “I just didn’t know how to say it. Harry was not the werewolf.”
“I don’t get it.” Shane’s voice shook. “The werewolf didn’t bite or scratch you.”
“It did.” Eddie gestured towards his ribs. Shane saw the scar there. “When it knocked Harry and I down when jumping, the claws on it’s hind legs grazed me.”
The tears had began to flow from Shane’s eyes.
“I’m so sorry, Man.” Eddie’s voice began to fade. “I’m so sorry for all the pain I caused you. I never meant to. I couldn’t control it. You know I’m telling the truth. You’re my best friend. My brother from another mother. Always have…..Always…..will….be…”
Eddie’s eyes closed.
Permanently.

Wow....
Another loss