Snow-covered hedges flew past, as he sped along the lane. Moonlight traced the way ahead, as it wound its way through the fields, like the silvery trail of a giant snail. It grew suddenly darker. He sensed a presence behind and chanced a look over his shoulder. To his horror, a dark shape, blacker than the surrounding night, loomed close. A feeling of dread and loathing emanated from the darkness, its icy fingers penetrating deep into his core. It wanted everything, his energy, his life, and his soul. But Tomas wasn’t about to let that happen.

He ran effortlessly, growing taller as he gained speed before suddenly, soaring up into the crisp night air. Clearing first the hedges, then the treetops to climb higher to join the stars, he left the shadow behind. Tomas threw out his arms and circled, watching the white fields far below, half expecting a flying snowman to join him any moment. He tumbled forward, followed by a steep dive, enjoying his freedom as he hurtled headlong down through the cold air.

Below, the landscape changed and he recognized the pedestrian bridge, bathed in orange light. He tried to pull up, but continued to drop, getting lower and lower until he landed on the road, under the bridge. Shouts of glee behind, made him jump. He turned to see Greg and several others charging towards him. Tomas started to run, but his legs felt heavy and he struggled to get off the ground. The shouts grew closer and he tripped on the curb, falling head first onto the path. Bodies landed on top and Tomas flayed out his fists, but found himself tangled in a mass of arms and legs. He panicked, as something warm and wet trickled down his neck. He twisted, fearing it was blood flowing from a knife wound, but found himself alone. Suddenly, he got the uneasy feeling he was being watched. He turned to see a woman, just as she faded away.

Tomas opened his eyes and stared straight into the dark face of Fudge, lying inches from his nose. The dog’s hot breath had made his neck wet and Tomas smiled with relief. He rolled onto his side and put his arm around Fudge, happy to have him for company. But his thoughts once again, turned to Sky and he dearly wished she were next to him.

6

“Finished that copy love? Chip wants this arvo’s edition out pronto, he’s off to the cricket later.”

Shelley glanced up from her computer at her Editor, Rick, and fought to hide her disgust at the sweat stains on his shirt. She forced a smile, trying not to breathe. “Almost done. Give me five minutes.” And some space.