Flash Fiction Blogfest 2011 Entry

The day has arrived! Flash Fiction Blogfest 2011! Hope everyone is geared up and ready to go. Below you will find my entry. Enjoy the read. Good luck to all!

The Beast

A single security light cast a glow over the dark, deserted parking lot. Amy darted glances around her as she hurried toward her Camaro, the only disruption to the flat space. Footsteps echoed the click of her heels, and she froze, listening to the quiet night. Casting blame on her imagination, she scurried toward her destination. Her hands shook as she slipped the keys into the door and turned the lock.

Cold, soft hands covered her mouth, and an arm slinked around her waist. Warm breath touched her ear. “I’ve been waiting.”

Recognizing the voice, Amy twisted free and turned on her boyfriend, Brad. “That wasn’t funny!” She punched him on the arm, jumped into the car, and slammed the door behind her.

Brad opened it, leaned toward her, and placed a kiss on her forehead. “Sorry.” He sighed. “Could you give me a ride?”

She rolled her eyes, but smiled. “Get in.” She couldn’t resist his boyish ways, no matter how many pranks he played. She popped on the inside light, did a quick makeup check, and dimmed the light.

Outside, a strong wind stirred and rocked the car. Terror wrapped its arms around her. Amy jumped from the car and circled it. Brad was gone. A drop of liquid hit her check, and she looked up in dread.

Brad’s limp body hung from the claws of a creature. Dark wings flapped, holding it in place, and it stared at her. The voice scratched and hissed, but she was able to make out its words. “I came for you, but he’ll do for now. I’ll have you next time.”

She lowered her head and wandered back to the driver’s seat. Dread and regret filled her. She should have warned Brad of the beast who stalked her, craving her blood. It may have saved his life, but it may have ended hers. She wiped the wetness from her cheek. Her hand came away bloody. “Next time,” she whispered and pulled out of the parking lot.