When the time came, I waited eagerly for the guests. But as the minutes ticked by, my excitement turned to anxiety. No one showed up. The food remained untouched, the lanterns swayed gently, and my heart sank. Despairing, I began to clear away the dishes.
As I took the last tray inside, I heard a voice. “Hey, need some help?”
I turned to see Jacob, a charming man in tight jeans and a white T-shirt, standing at the gate.
“I was starting to think no one would come,” I said, forcing a smile.
Jacob helped with the tray. “I’m sorry. There’s something you need to know.”
We sat at the table, and Jacob explained that my house had a dark reputation. The previous tenant had experienced strange occurrences and eventually disappeared. The neighborhood was filled with superstitions, and Jules, in particular, was convinced the house was cursed.
I felt a chill. “That’s why everyone is avoiding me? Because of old rumors?”
Jacob nodded. “People here are superstitious. But I don’t believe in that. I’d be happy to have dinner with you.”
During our meal, Jacob listened to my story and reassured me. Before leaving, he warned me about Jules’s superstitions.
The next day, despite feeling unsettled, I decided to investigate further. I climbed into the attic, discovering an old diary belonging to the previous resident. The diary detailed eerie occurrences similar to my own, strengthening my belief that something was amiss.
That night, I stayed up, determined to uncover the source of the disturbances. As I followed the strange noises outside, I saw a shadow dart through my garden. Gathering my courage, I climbed over the fence, only to be met with Jules’s hysterical screams.
“Who’s there? Get away!”