“Does mummy know you’re out this late?” Tomas shuddered as laughter rang out. His eyes adjusted to the dim light in the tunnel; he could just see the wide eyes and bared teeth of his approaching doom. Something flashed and he groaned as he saw the knife. His first thought was for his mother. But just as Greg’s features became clearer, Tomas found his legs and turned. He darted back down the alley, but heard Greg call out.

“He’s coming! Get him!” Just as Tomas reached the end, a figure stepped out in front, but luckily his speed knocked the boy backwards, and he charged passed the prone body to freedom.

He ran, skidding on the soft snow. His heart raced and the cold air burnt his lungs, but he didn’t stop. With every step, his feet slid underneath him, and twice he fell flat on his face, but still he didn’t stop. Adrenalin surged through his body and he ran faster, as he began to enjoy the sensation. Angry shouts followed, but he seemed to be losing them. He ran straight over the deserted road and didn’t slow down until close to home. Gasping for air, he collapsed onto his knees and puffed out vapors, like a steam train. Not wanting to worry his mum, he brushed off the snow clinging to his body, before going inside.

Matylda and Fudge stood in the hall. She’d seen the dog take his position by the door and knew Tomas would be home soon. She tried her best to appear unconcerned.

“Oh! Hello, you’re back in good time. Did you enjoy your walk?” Tomas, in an effort to pretend nothing had happened, stooped to shake the dog’s paw.

“Err…. yes, just what I needed.”

Matylda smiled, looking relieved. “Good for the soul,” she added, “now get out of those wet clothes and get yourself dry. Do you want your usual supper?”

“No thanks, I’m not hungry.”

His mother laughed, “That’s a first.”

Back in the safety of his bedroom, Tomas came down from his high. He collapsed fully clothed, onto his chair and looked up at the ceiling. He shuddered at the thought of what might have happened, if he hadn’t got away. Fudge strolled over and placed his head on Tomas’s lap. He looked up, as if waiting for his master to speak. Tomas stroked the dog’s head and smiled. He opened his mouth to speak, when Fudge suddenly jumped, pricking up his ears at the sound of loud voices outside. Had they found him? He reached up and switched off the light, before going to the window. Carefully, he lifted the curtain and peered outside. His stomach turned when he saw three figures walking along the other side of the road; they were looking for him.