I've edited this story some and added bits that will help things make more sense, as promised.

A house can be many things. It can be shelter from the elements, a place to hang your hat and coat after work, a haven from the madly rushing world in general, a home filled with warmth, comfort and the sounds of friends and loved ones.

But sometimes, a house goes bad.

Philosophers have often noted that the symbols we use shape our thoughts. They hold power over us. But it is a power we freely give to them. Symbols hold no power that we have not first granted. So, my friends, on this spooky Halloween night, remember: accept not the symbols of others.

Symbols by SuZie

I grit my teeth against the terror I felt. Whatever it was, was writhing about 10 feet in front of me. I moved closer, the flashlight beam shining straight and shaking like a leaf in a hailstorm.

Petticoating Flourishes
Ladd’s Exchange Mall
Book 2 Part B

Later that morning after seeing the children off to their various activities, Kaye and Andy Bloom arrived at the store at 8:30. As Andy went through the paperwork, Kaye brought him a cup of coffee. From a safe distance she watched closely as he sipped the drug-laced brew. Kaye reminded him of his appointment, and accompanied him to the beauty shop. Along the way Kaye watched as he started to yawn and blink his eyes.

BOOK OF CHANGE
BY
thomas_the_tame

I'd never felt lower in my life. My marriage was officially over. I'd been gone for almost a week on business, and when I returned, the place was clean of everything that could in anyway be construed as "hers". Standing in the empty bedroom, reflecting on our marred union, I thought of Katie, my little girl, and wondered when I'd see her again. Marilyn had warned me, of course, had begged me to attend counseling, but pride was my master in more ways than one.

Darkness. I wonder what time it is. Time to stretch and roll over.

Hey! What gives? I can’t move.

After hiding in a mummy's case, Bob undergoes physical and mental changes. Are they a curse or a blessing? And do they help in the quest to defeat an ancient threat that's fast approaching earth? A prophesy from the time of the pyramid building now has the world in fear. A search for an alien artifact that is crucial for the world's survival is now in the hands of Bob. Is he man enough for the challenge?

The Maiden's Curse Part Three by Prudence Walker