Brick House

Bruce, in order for this to work, you're going to have to confide in me. I need you to establish a certain level of trust. Can you do that for me? Yes? Good. Now close your eyes and tell me what you see...

I'm not quite certain. It's mostly shapes and colors.

If you concentrate hard enough you'll be able to form these shapes into specific memories. Don't worry about their descriptions, just focus in your mind and let go.

I...

Bruce?

I am but twelve. 

Carry on.

A faceless wonder in a sea of memories. 

I wander down a familiar block. It's one of those cookie cutter projects where the streets and houses all look alike.

The sky is dark, except for some rain clouds, yet the sun shines brightly on a two story, red bricked house in the distance.

I want to run there, to get out of the rain, but the muscles in my leg beat to their own drum.

The streets are empty. 

I notice a plastic ball being pushed down the street toward me by the wind. It looks like a globe you'd find in my childhood classroom. The map of the countries is quite faded, but retains its shapes.

My legs stop marching and I watch as the ball passes by me, zig-zagging down the street toward a new intersection.

My neck feels as if it's completely turned around in the direction of the ball, as my legs start working again.

Eventually I make it to the house, but I'm too afraid to go in.

Why?

Because I know what's waiting for me behind that yellow, paint chipped door.

Is it him?

Yes.

You needn't be afraid, he can't hurt you. Go in.

No.

Yes.

No.

If you don't, I will.

You don't know what's behind that door.

There's only one way to find out.

The rain. It's picking up.

Go inside Bruce.

I can't. My legs are broken.

Use your arms. Pull yourself forward.

It's no use. My legs are cemented to the ground.

For heaven's sake Bruce....

Don't!

Gwendolyn?

Gwendolyn? Are you okay?

Bruce.

What do you see?

Bruce, where are you?

Outside.

Bruce, I can't see.

You need to get out!

It's too dark, I can't find the door.

Follow my voice.

There's...there's something near.

It's him. He's found you.

I feel something hot on my neck.

You need to run. Get out of there!

Bruce is that you?

No. Run!

BRUCE!!

Gwendolyn?!

Gwen?