Following a tragic incident in L.A., detective Kacey Dean has returned to her hometown of Pleasant Hills, Washington, just in time to be swept up in a series of murders called the Chosen Killings-- citizens of Pleasant Hills are killing people seemingly at random, saying the words "I am chosen" before committing the murder. Kacey Dean has killed the man she thought was responsible, but she's about to find out that the Chosen Killings are far beyond her, or anyone's, understanding.

I Am Chosen

Kacey had fumbled the keys out of her pocket in mid-run. She slid to a stop at the driver's side door, pressing the remote button repeatedly. Finally a beep-beep accompanied the dome light flashing on. She could hear the beast, nearly on top of her as she yanked the door open and jumped inside.

She didn't close the door; the creature's momentum closed it for her, denting it in the process and rocking the entire vehicle so hard it nearly gave her whiplash. The thing opened its multi-segmented mouth and roared at the driver's side window, spattering it with slaver. As the mouth remained open a tri-tipped tongue emerged and slathered itself over the glass.

In the cab, the only sound was Kacey's rapid breathing as she watched in disgust. The beast finally closed its mouth, turned and walked toward the trees at the edge of the drive.

Chapter38