He looked disheartened. “You know what these dreams tell me? That I was only second fiddle. You were having the dreams, Rose, and inviting me in, maybe because you were scared and needed your big brother to save you. But they were your dreams, not mine.”

“That’s not true,” she protested. “We shared our ESP, it wasn’t one of us or the other. I mean, what about how you’d make me help you play your awful tricks? You had power over my mind, Jerram, you know you did.”

“No. If I got you to help it was just because I was stronger than you, probably a little stinker of a bully in my own way. But you were the one who had the power. You still do. Maybe I can help, Rose, but only so far. It’s up to you.”

It took a few minutes for his words to sink in. “I wanted to be the same as you, Jerram. I always did. Now you’re telling me we’re different?” “You have a gift and you have to use it.”

“But how? How do I make it work when I need it? It’s fine for all of you to ask ask ask … but what am I supposed to do when I don’t know how to give?”

“Maybe the first step is wanting to.”

“But I do want to, now that you’ve told me all about Carla. I want to help because of you. And, another reason. I’m starting to get crank calls. Maybe from town crackpots or .. . maybe Mom’s biggest fear is coming true and they’re from him, the killer. You know what? I’m not scared, I’m just angry. I want to get him. By myself.”

“But we may need help.”

“Yeah, O’Hara said I should talk to people who know about these things, ask them what to do, but it gives me the creeps. The only thing I can think of now is to go to Mackey’s sister. He told me she could help and at least it’s someone who seems normal.”

“If Mackey recommended her, she’s gotta be good,” Jerram said, smiling a tired, sad smile.

“In the meantime, let’s say nothing to Mom and Dad. Mom will only worry. Dad will get himself in a state.”

Jerram took her hand. “It’s down to just the two of us, then.”

Rose smiled. “Just you and me again.”

Part Six

Him

Dear Folks,

Only seven more shopping days until Christmas. I hope you enjoyed the gifts I sent you. Wishing you all the joys of the season.

There is one among you who knows. She will soon have the joy of blood and easeful death. May silent nights come to her. There is another among you who tells. She will soon be blessed with silence, too. The silence of death is peace.

Blessings,

Your Friend

News Story