The Open Door

by Brian Brahm

  Tall Man needed Scott to remain in his confused state, so anyone attempting to help him clarify, or to bring him closer to understanding God—must be removed from the equation.

  Ella was trouble. She was a true, pure soul who believed and understood the true God. She knew to follow the original Torah, and not some man-made, feel-good religion. Religions designed for convenience, personal gain, or a group’s agenda, would never be pleasing to God, and would lead people down the wrong path. Ella had seen it and wanted no part of it.

  For these and many more reasons, she proved to be a greater threat to the demon than he anticipated. She was protected, and although he wanted her to believe he could destroy her, he never could. He would have to do what evil does best: manipulate, lie, and deceive. He would have to disguise himself, become something they would never dream of hurting or saying no to. He would have to become something Scott and Ella would literally die for. And this is where Abigail became such an important pawn in Tall Man’s game.

  CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT

  The disappearance of Cody Wells, the dead woman in his backyard, and the death of Benjamin Mustapha still mystified police. To them, the crimes were not related but equally odd.

  Scott and Ella were the only two in the entire world who knew the truth. Maybe not privy to all of the facts, but they knew what was behind the senseless and gruesome acts.

  Cody’s situation still baffled them; he was missing, but the most disconcerting was that Cody neglected to contact Scott.

  After returning to Scott’s house, Ella and he discussed searching for Cody, but they had no idea where to start, and the police were already working with other agencies to perform a statewide hunt.

  Instead, Scott prepared a meal for her and they shared each other’s company over dinner—trying not to think of what Mustapha must have gone through.

  Afterwards, she introduced more Torah to Scott and entered into in depth conversations. She knew an understanding was needed, as was a good deal of prayer.

  Although this was new territory for Scott, he was fully aware that he was up against the supernatural, therefore accepting the fact that strengthening himself spiritually would be the only way to defeat the evil that hunted him.

  For the first time in his life, he had an intense interest in God’s word. And for the first time, he had a sincere interest in spending the rest of his life with a woman; the only woman he had met that showed an inherent decency, a conviction to put others before herself, and a trustworthiness that until now, had eluded him.

  She showed him that good still existed, and that there was someone out there for everyone, including him. He felt truly blessed to have met this woman, and accepted the irony of fate. Had he not been tormented these years and sought help, they would have never met. It’s amazing to ponder what any number of inconceivable events has to take place in order for certain things to happen. More proof that there is something bigger than them out there, that they’re all part of a plan larger than they could ever imagine.

  The entire night wasn’t spent on discussing their situation; they learned much about one another: tastes in music, art, culinary delights, dream homes, politics, current affairs, movies, and future plans.

  They agreed on most, and what little they disagreed on was negligible. They were able to peacefully understand each other’s views, and then find a common ground on whatever topics they explored.

  Both enjoyed the moments of that evening to such an extent, they didn’t want it to end. They yearned for more, and with each second spent together, the strength to beat all odds in order to secure a future grew immensely.

  Once time entered the early morning hours, both Scott and Ella became exhausted.

  The candlelight that danced upon her perfect face, accompanied by the vanilla aroma the candle relinquished, placed him in a hypnotic trance that nearly lulled him to sleep.

  “Looks like it’s about time to hit the sheets, sleepy-head.” She said with an adoring admiration.

  He snapped out of his coma and replied, “I believe you’re right. I don’t suppose there’s a chance of you picking me up and carrying me?” They both shared a tired but sincere laugh, and then moved to the bedroom.

  Ella was first to prepare for bed, and when she exited the restroom she wore a long, modest nightgown. Although it covered her from neck to ankle, it draped over her petite athletic figure in the most flattering of ways. It caught Scott’s attention, although he dare not show it.

  Scott was next to get ready and he wore shorts and a t-shirt. It was also modest and very simple, but Ella still took notice to parts of his physique not normally on display.

  Now both were in bed, he with a firearm under his pillow for security, and she next to her protector who slept between her and the door.

  Once again they shared a late night on little sleep, only to wake early.

  A part of them hoped for Tall Man so they get it over with and go about their lives—another part dreaded the thought of the unavoidable encounter.

  CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE

  In earth’s realm he became known as, Tall Man. In his realm he went by the name, Voker. Either way he was one and the same, but his appearance was vastly different. He couldn’t very well walk on earth among humans in his traditional form. The human form he chose was freakish enough, but imagine a nearly seven foot subhuman form with pale transparent skin, revealing every vein in its body, a skull shaped more like a bat’s than a human’s, webbing that connected from the elbows to the waist—almost like bat wings, uneven rows of fangs, and blacked out eyes that reflected unholy images of Hell.

  Bodies must be left behind when leaping realms, but back where Tall Mall called home; he had been given a body to suit his true nature. It was part of the punishment . . . to have the appearance reflect the soul it concealed—the uglier the soul, the uglier the demon. Compared to demons that spawned from souls of certain ruthless, Middle-Eastern leaders and terrorists, or other murderous and suppressive dictators, Tall Man would appear pleasing to the eye. But to the average person he would appear hideous.

  Using what little abilities he had, Tall Man kept Abigail sedated until the time he would need her.

  He hid in an underground pipeline he accessed through a manhole cover on a quiet street just ten blocks from Scott’s home.

  Drips of water echoed throughout the cavernous cement walls that lined the sewers. An eerie green light reflected off the still waters and damp walls. Rats and insects scurried on select dry paths in search of food and shelter.

  Tall Man crouched with his elbows resting on his knees. Almost completely submerged in shadows, with his long black coat, and his nose being the only facial feature to capture light, he resembled a vulture waiting for his prey to breathe its last so he could feast on the still warm flesh.

  Abigail lay beside him in a fetal position, her thumb in her mouth as she dreamt of having a family.

  He had no desire to harm her; she was a mere tool, an object he cared less about and gave no thought to. He would use her to achieve his goal, and whatever happens, happens. Harm may come to her, but it wouldn’t be intentional, nor would it be an obstacle.

  Sure, her innocence and beauty disgusted him, as it would any demon, but she was not a target. She simply offered a convenient way to reach the intended target; therefore time and energy wouldn’t be wasted on destroying her.

  CHAPTER FOURTY

  Each woke to the sound of the alarm and looked at one another to be sure they were OK.

  For whatever reason, Tall Man hadn’t come for them that night. It’s possible he would come in the day for a surprise attack, but not likely. His last two victims that Scott knew of had been brought down in the late evening or early morning hours.

  Sitting at the table eating breakfast that consisted of eggs, hash browns, and orange juice, Scott and Ella discussed their day.

  It was the weekend, and Ella didn’t have to go in to work. Good thing too, because she would have had to call off.
Scott being self employed, would take however much time he needed.

  Typical of two people in mortal danger, they talked about survival. More studying and prayer was on their agenda, as was a plan for physical defense. They may have to ward off violent attacks, and with Scott’s background along with his firearm, they had something to at least buy some time.

  They had both hoped that by praying, the evil would be dealt with prior to coming after them, and they would never have to deal with it. This was unlikely, as history showed that people were often put through great tests of courage, strength, endurance, and faith before good won over evil. God working through Moses to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt was brought to mind, but there are many examples.

  The one thing that brought peace to both Scott and Ella was that they had done all they could to prepare. Even if failure should occur, they could both go out knowing they did their best. This did nothing to suppress the fear, but it brought a shred of hope nonetheless.

  A barely audible knock came from the door. They looked at each other, both sets of eyes registering concern. “Do you want to answer it,” Ella whispered.

  “I don’t know. Wait here while I look out the window.”

  Scott peeked and at first saw nothing. Then another knock came, indicating there was someone at the door. He looked down, and standing at doorknob height was an adorable little girl. “It’s a child . . . a little girl.”

  “What? Really?”

  Scott answered the door, “Hello, sweetheart . . . can I help you?”

  She looked up at him with her big blue eyes, and in a little voice she answered, “Hello, Mister. I’m lost and I can’t find my home.” Tears glossed over her eyes, and the slightest sniffle escaped her tiny nose.

  “Oh, sweetie, don’t cry. Come on inside and we’ll help you. OK?”

  He guided her in by placing his hand on top of her head, and then sat her on the couch. Ella came rushing over and sat by the little girl. “What’s your name?”

  “I’m Abigail,” the girl responded. “I’m lost . . . I don’t know where I am or how to get home.”

  “Abigail, that’s a beautiful name,” Ella said in an attempt to calm the girl. “What’s your last name?”

  “Abigail,” she replied.

  “That’s your first name. Do you have another name?”

  “I don’t know, I can’t remember.” Abigail became more upset and it was clear that she was in duress and needed time to process her feelings.

  “Don’t worry about it. You can stay here until you remember, and we’ll help you find your home.” Scott decided not to ask any questions until she was ready. Instead, making her comfortable was paramount. “How about something to eat and drink? We were just eating and have plenty left over, just for you.”

  Ella smiled at Scott in approval. She grabbed the girl’s hand and walked her to the table where Scott dished her up a plate. “You know . . . Scott here is widely known as the best scrambled egg maker in this state,” Ella told Abigail. “If you finish all of them, we may be able to buy you an ice-cream cone later.”

  Abigail smiled, nodded her head and said, “mmmm . . . hmmm!”

  After eating and having a chance to settle in, Ella again attempted to find out a last name, “So . . . Abigail, any memories pop into your head? I know eating helps me sometimes.”

  “No. I’m sorry, I don’t remember.”

  “Do you remember your address, phone number, family?”

  With a worried look on her doll like face, she said, “I’m scared. I don’t remember anything.”

  They could see the child had been through some sort of trauma recently, so they decided to take care of her and try again tomorrow. Pushing only seemed to clam her up.

  “Do you like cartoons?” Scott offered.

  “Yes, I think I do.”

  “I have Monsters Inc. Have you seen that one?”

  “No, I’m scared of monsters.”

  “These aren’t the scary kind, but let me see what else I have. How about Finding Nemo?”

  “The fish one?”

  “Yeah, the fish one.” He couldn’t help but smile when she answered. She had an endearing way about her.

  After the movie, they put Abigail down for a nap. With no idea of how long or how far she had wandered, they played it safe and focused their attention on giving her rest.

  While she slept, they continued going over their plans for each conceivable scenario. Not allowing the Tall Man to get close enough to touch them, using the gun if needed, and retaining enough focus for prayer, were all contained within their plans.

  The little girl added to their fear; she was now someone they would need to protect should the demon come for them before returning Abigail to her rightful home. Without knowing the girl’s full name, they were at a dead end until she could remember.

  Calling the police was an option, but they couldn’t bring themselves to place her in government custody. They knew they would be able to provide more comfortable surroundings until her family could be located. Besides, they now felt a responsibility for her. It was as if an angel had clipped her wing and fell into their front yard, and they needed to care for her during her time of healing before sending her home.

  CHAPTER FOURTY-ONE

  Uninhabited, the Tall Man’s body still remained crouched in the sewer, awaiting its spirit and helpers to return. He had to be present for the final task, and to be sure the other Demons wouldn’t steal the soul he was after. That was the one negative thing about bringing others to assist: they couldn’t be trusted. How could they? They were pure evil.

  At Scott’s house, Abigail had long since woken from her nap, and during that time, she, Scott and Ella played games and spoke of many things. Topics of conversation ranged from butterflies, flowers and ice cream, to unicorns, princesses and magical kingdoms.

  Although her sweetness and innocence shined through, they sensed something was wrong with Abigail but couldn’t put their finger on it. They wrote it off as trauma of some kind. Regardless, their hearts quickly became attached to hers.

  Evening was upon them, and it was time for Abigail to go to bed. They brushed her perfectly formed rows of teeth, cleaned her up, and found a t-shirt and shorts she could use as makeshift pajamas. The shorts fit like baggy pants, and the shirt went nearly to her ankles.

  They made up a fairy tale story to lull her to sleep, and just before dozing off, Abigail said, “Thank you Mr. Abrahamson.” Moments later, she was asleep, and sleep made her face so angelic, so perfectly radiant, that both Scott and Ella had to kiss her on the cheek.

  They left the room and got themselves ready for bed. Once ready, Ella stopped with a furrowed brow as if in deep thought.

  “What is it? Everything OK?” Scott asked.

  “Yes—no—it’s just that I don’t remember you or I telling her your last name. We only mentioned our first names.”

  They both paused to think back. Maybe she saw the name written somewhere, or maybe they said it in conversation and forgot about it. Neither of them could remember saying the name, and after looking around the house, his name wasn’t written on anything.

  Puzzled but not overly concerned, they both went to their separate beds and closed their eyes.

  Two hours had gone by, and the house stood painfully quiet. Like the calm before the storm, there was something sensed, even in an unconscious state. Most likely it was because of a built-up paranoia over waiting for Tall Man to turn their lives upside down. Regardless, it made both Scott and Ella restless.

  The sound of little feet scampering across a bare wood floor caught Scott’s attention. Being a light sleeper on high alert, he woke up and tried to hone in on the direction of the noise. His senses were acute, almost inhuman. Survival instincts kicked in and his heart went from a resting rate to that of someone who just sprinted a hundred yards.

  Again, little bare feet scurried about in the direction of the bathroom. Abigail, he thought. Assuming she was just go
ing to use the potty, he lay back down and closed his eyes; his heart rate quickly lowering to a normal rate.

  Reticence became him as silence again filled the air. It didn’t take long before Scott once again entered into sleep.

  He dreamt of Abigail holding his hand while walking through a field laden with violet wild flowers. She whispered to him softly, but he wasn’t able to understand what she said. He felt a comfort, a warm sensation, as if she was an angel guiding him through Heaven’s gates. He felt as if he were floating, no longer grounded by the confining body he once lived.

  “Scott!” Ella yelled.

  His eyes were only able to open part way, as if he were half asleep. He saw Abigail holding his hand, like in the dream, and Ella standing behind her screaming out his name. He looked again at Abigail; her eyes were rolled into the back of her head and she was shaking.

  “Scott!” The scream from Ella broke through this time. It was clear, and he was again alert.

  He pulled his hand away from Abigail’s and sat up staring at her in disbelief.

  “Scott, she was doing something to you! He’s with her! He has to be!”

  He pulled his gun from under his pillow. She snapped out of her induced trance and grinned at him. “I almost had you, but as I should have expected, the little whore got in the way.” It was a vile man’s voice, no longer the endearing, beautiful song of a little girl’s innocent charm shining through.

  Scott pointed the gun at her, shaking furiously. “I can’t—I can’t do it!”

  Ella stood silenced by her own tongue. It seemed to swell the size of a large potato, rendering her speechless. She remembered their plans, closed her eyes, and began praying.

  “Get back! Leave!” Scott screamed. Then he realized that the little girl must be somewhere still inside. “Abigail? Sweetheart? It’s me, Scott. I know you’re probably scared, but everything will be OK.”