Visitor

The next day after her birthday party, Vanya woke up feeling a bit tired. She had missed breakfast, and Paddy brought her a tray with toast and tea. "You slept in, dear," Paddy said with a smile. "You must have been exhausted from the party."

Vanya nodded, taking a sip of her tea. Some of the guests had stayed over, and she could hear them chatting in the living room. They were discussing plans for the day, including taking care of Luna, the little kitten.

As Vanya finished her breakfast, Theresa came in with a warm smile. "Good morning, dear. How are you feeling today?"

Vanya smiled back. "I'm feeling a bit better, thank you. Just a bit tired."

Theresa nodded. "That's understandable. You had a big day yesterday. Why don't you take it easy today? Paddy and I can take care of some errands. We need to go to the market anyway."

Vanya's eyes lit up. "Can I come with you?"

Theresa hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Of course, dear. You can come with us."

As they walked through the market, Vanya noticed that the atmosphere seemed a bit off. A scanty environment some stalls seemed to have either closed or didn't open at all the few people were whispering to each other, and there were some strange inaudible rumors circulating about strange occurrences in the town. Vanya didn't pay much attention to it, but Theresa seemed concerned.

When they returned home, Theresa seemed relieved. "Let's get inside, little rose," she said, her voice a bit rushed.

Vanya looked at her curiously, are you okay?but Theresa just shook her head. "Never mind, dear. Let's just get inside and have some lunch."

Vanya noticed the unease in Theresa and she believed Mr jones noticed it as well and she thought she heard whispers from them and their rush and pull, for the first she noticed the manor doors had a huge iron latch and barricades and she only could wonder.

The evening had been filled with laughter and good company as they played games in the living room, more like a distraction for residents . Vanya had been enjoying herself, despite the lingering feeling of unease that had been plaguing her since their trip to the market. Theresa had seemed a bit preoccupied, but Vanya had attributed it to her being tired from the party the night before.

As the night wore on, the games became more intense, and the laughter grew louder. Vanya was having a great time, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. She kept glancing around the room, half-expecting to see someone or something lurking in the shadows.

As they finished their last game, Theresa stood up and stretched. "I think it's time for bed, don't you?" she said, her voice a bit strained.

Vanya nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She was tired, and the tension in the room was starting to get to her.

But just as they were about to call it a night, there was a knock at the door. It was a soft knock, but it seemed to echo through the room like a loud bang.

"Who could that be?" Theresa asked, her voice a bit hesitant.

Vanya felt a shiver run down her spine as she looked at the door. She didn't want to answer it, but she knew she had to. She slowly got up from her seat, her heart pounding in her chest. Vanya's legs had its own mind.

It was like she was stuck on their feet, Theresa felt like protesting but her mouth could not move she looked to where Mr jones was sat and to Vanya's who's feet moved sluggishly and she felt hot tears drip from her cheeks, Joseph and paddy had already taken the games and snacks away and Mr jones had gone around for checks .

As she approached the door, the knocking grew louder, more insistent. Vanya's hand trembled as she reached for the doorknob. She hesitated for a moment, wondering if she should open it, but her curiosity got the better of her.

She took a deep breath and turned the handle, pulling the door open slowly. The cold night air rushed in, and Vanya's eyes scanned the darkness outside. And then, she saw him...