Chapter 36: In the Midst of Growth
The moment Mr. Beach ended his phone call, every second felt like an eternity. The creaking sound of his front door opening echoed through the house, followed by the soft hum of a presence entering the living room from outside. The occasional shifting sound of trinkets hinted at the explorations of an invisible intruder, like a curious child rummaging through a toy chest.
Yet, these innocent noises sent shivers down Mr. Beach’s spine, and his heart pounded in his chest. The mere idea that this unseen child was lurking just beyond the wall instilled in him an overwhelming sense of dread. The thought of confronting this mysterious visitor was too terrifying to bear; he couldn’t bring himself to open the door, nor even approach it, for fear of coming face to face with the unknown.
However, there comes a time when fear must be met with courage.
The shuffling in the living room eventually ceased, as if the unseen child had grown bored of its playthings. Muffled footsteps began to approach, steadily growing louder until they came to a halt outside his door.
“It’s coming, it’s coming in. Mom, Dad, leave, it’s here for me, I can feel it, go now,” Coral’s voice spiraled into panic as if she could sense the ghostly infant’s presence.
“Honey, what are you talking about? How could we leave you?” Mrs. Ocean responded, tears streaking her face, and turned to her husband. “What’s out there? Whatever it is, we’ll face it together.”
Inspired by his wife’s words, Mr. Beach steeled his nerves, arming himself with a coat hanger. He was ready to meet the intruder head-on, intending to banish the apparition at first sight.
“No, don’t, Dad! The detective said that ghosts can’t be killed. We need to find Miles; only he can save us!” Coral argued, attempting to prevent her father’s actions. Mrs. Ocean restrained her, however.
“I’ve already contacted Miles. I offered him five hundred thousand for his help; he should be arriving soon. Don’t worry, we’ll be fine,” Mr. Beach tried to reassure them.