The Prey - Book One

Chapter One

I’m running.

In my mouth I feel the taste of my own blood. All my muscles hurt awfully. But I keep sprinting like if my life depended on it.

I think it does, actually.

Something splashes on the wall just where I was a second ago. It’s acid. I would’ve died if it happened just a little earlier. I sprint off again, still terrified by the thought of being killed by an acid splash. Gee, why did I have to stay for drama class today? Dad says it’ll help me get more outgoing. Well, sorry, Dad, but I prefer being shy than dead.

I hear them behind me. I won’t escape. But here it is – the exit. Doesn’t matter that the watchman is still here, he won’t stop me from running out. I hope they won’t hurt him. I think I’m the one they’re looking for.

I’m panting even more now, and I know I won’t run for much longer. I manage to reach the park on the other side of the street. It’s empty – no surprise at this time of the day. I finally stop on a lawn. Screw the ‘no walking’ sign.

They’re here. I see them before me and struggle to hold the confident pose – for the first time in my life.

At least I can die hard.