"Death in the Garden" by Susi J Smith The hooded figure was standing in the bushes when Evelyn first noticed it.
Between the wilted acer and the orange-tinged hydrangea, it silently watched. Shadows obscured the face, long black robes hid the hands. Evelyn turned her back and poured two cups of tea from her Royal Albert teapot, the hot liquid splashed out of the bone china cups and onto the saucers. “Not now, please not now.” Gripping the pot with both hands, she put it back on the table. With a pristine white napkin, she dabbed away the trickle of spilt tea and brushed biscuit crumbs onto the soft grass below. Bushes rustled. Hurried footsteps trampled the grass. Hands seized her dress. She shrieked. “I know why you’re here,” Evelyn heard the tremor in her voice. “I’ve seen you lurking; standing in the shadows, staring out from the mirror. I knew it wouldn’t be long.” Giggles accompanied the grip tightening on her dress. A tear traced down her furrowed face. “Please, let me say goodbye, just one last time.” Her trembling body dropped to its knees. The figure bent, removing its hood. Bright blue eyes gazed at her. “Are you alright, Gran?” Evelyn smiled, nodding. “I stumbled, that’s all.” “I’m sorry I scared you, I didn’t want you to fall. It’s just my Halloween costume, remember?” Pulling her legs round, Evelyn patted her lap, allowing Alfie to scamper up. She swept a stray chestnut hair away from his eyes. “I’m going to miss you when Death comes. We always have so much fun together.” Alfie wrapped his small arms around her neck. “I don’t want to play anymore.” “The game ends for us all, whether we want it to or not.” Evelyn looked at the hooded figure standing in the bushes. A skeletal finger pointed towards Alfie’s back.
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