kitty vs the boiler room monster

8/14/2019 Kitty vs The Boiler Room Monster

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Billy doesnt waste a moment in wrenching open the small arc metal door and climbing

in.

In the tight cramped space inside the furnace, Billy manages to close the door

behind him.

Then all he can do is wait.Wait for them to stop hunting him.

Wait for them to get bored of looking and go back to their cells and leave him in

peace.

Just wait.

Then Billy hears the boiler room door open and the horde of prisoners flow in.

Only then does Billy realise how bad a hiding place hes found for himself.

His last victim had told Billy, before he killed him, that what goes around, comes

around.

Billy was starting to believe that very saying.Even more so, when some of the prisoners looked inside the furnace and see Billy

curled up in a ball.

As the prisoners lock eyes with Billy, no one says a word.

Theres nothing left to be said.

The prisoners just smiles.

Billy shouts a curse on them.

But the prisoners just laugh.

Then they turn on the furnace.

As the flames begin to burn through the floor grating of the furnace, Billy screams.But his screams dont last for long.

Although the flames themselves burn through till dawn.

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CHAPTER ONE

2006

The boiler room was cloaked in darkness.The three young girls are standing in the centre of the room of metal and stone.

Jessica stands nervously looking around. A small window, high up on the wall, shows

only the moon staring back at her from the night sky, casting a cold-white hue into the

room.

There is no other light.

I dont think this was such a good idea, mumbles Jessica.

Dont you dare chicken out on us now! snaps Verna, You were the one that wanted

to play with us and this is where you prove if youre brave enough!

Verna stands with her hands on her hips, staring at Jessica, waiting for the little girl

to answer. At ten years old, Verna already has the stance of a typical bully down to afine art. An intimidating expression graces her face, which is perfectly imitated by

her friend, April, who stands beside her.Jessica starts to fidget with her pony-tail, as she timidly eyes the two girls infront

of her. Averting her gaze, she looks at her feet, wondering why she thought this wassuch a good idea in the first place.

Verna sniggers, as she glances at April. April pushes a few strands of her long greasyhair away from her face. Looks like the baby needs her mummy, she hisses at

Jessica.

At eight years old, Jessica looks up from her footwear. Im not a baby!Then prove it.

Jessica tries to fake bravery. What do I have to do?

Thats more like it, says Verna, as she takes a step towards the younger girl.

Standing at either side of Jessica; Verna and April lead her towards a large furnace,

in the middle of the boiler room.

April whispers into Jessicas ear, This is where it all happened.

Jessica just stares at the arc shaped door at the front of the grey metal furnace.

Where what all happened?

You know the story, demands Verna, Dont pretend you dont!

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Sara forges anger and takes her daughter by the hand as they walk towards the car.Kitty looks up at her mum and giggles to herself.

I know what you need, mummy.Sara looks down to Kitty, just as they reach the car. And what would that be?

Three letters.

Sara unlocks the door of the red Mini with a bewildered look on her face.

Three letters?

Kitty grins, as she says, KFC! then bursts out laughing.

Do I need that, or do you? asks her mother, with the bewilderment being replaced

by a smile.

We both do, its been a tough week but youre paying.

Sara opens the door of the Mini and playfully pushes Kitty into the passenger seat.

Get in there and shut up.

Kitty laughs and settles into the seat as her mother closes the door.Sara gets into the drivers seat and watches her daughter put her seatbelt on. Once

the task is finished, Kitty looks over to her mum.

Sara raises an eyebrow at Kitty and says, Up or down?Pardon? says Kitty, giving her mum a confused look.

Sara point to the roof of the car.Kitty instantly understand and shout, Down, its a lovely day, then bursts out

laughing.Sara grins at her daughter and pushes a button on the dashboard of the car, causing

a humming sound to come from the roof of the car, as the vinyl of the convertible Minibegins to slowly slide backwards in an arc, away from the top of the windscreen. Kitty

watches in glee as the roof of the car disappears into the rear of the vehicle and letsthe sun beat down on them both.

Are we set? asks Sara.

That depends..?

K.F.C it is.

Kitty lets out a whoop of joy as Sara pulls the Mini away from the curb.

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CHAPTER THREE

The sky is dark.Kitty sits at a small table in her bedroom and tries to finish off her homework, but

her mind begins to wander back to the mystery of why Jessica wasnt at school.

After coming home from the fast food joint, Kitty had voiced her worry about

Jessica to her mum. Sara had told her not to worry so much. The girl probably just

didnt feel well and her mum had let her take the day off.

But Kitty was not convinced.

Something wasnt right.

Kitty begins to hatch a plan.A plan to find out where her best little friend Jessica was.

Her mum enters the room at 8.30pm.

Right you, time for bed.

OK.

Kitty closes her homework book, and with her pyjamas already on, pads over to her

bed in bare feet.

As Sara begins to tuck her in, she notices the concern on her daughters face.

Kitty, dont worry about Jessica, she says as she brushes a strand of hair off her

little girls forehead, Im sure shell be back at school on Monday. Just wait and see.I know, mummy, sighs Kitty, faking a stretch and a yawn. I just worry too much

sometimes.Sara smiles down on her. Thats allowed. She bends down and kisses Kitty on the

cheek. Sweet dreams, I love you.Love you too, mummy.

Sara stands and makes her way back to the door. Leaving it open by a couple ofinches, she blows Kitty a final kiss and is gone.

Kitty lays wide awake, staring at the ceiling of her bedroom. With her plan now

mapped out in her head, all she has to do is just stay awake.

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Kitty reaches under her bed and grabs her Gameboy. With the volume turned downlow, she begins to play.

Super Marios never served a better purpose.

When the glow-in-the-dark hands of her pink watch tell Kitty its 11.30pm, she turns

the Gameboy off and nervously gets out of bed.

Keeping her feet bare, she looks through the crack in the door. The rest of the

house seems quiet. She heard her mum go to bed a half hour ago.

Kitty pushes open the bedroom door that little further, praying that it doesnt

squeak.

It doesnt.

Ahead of her is the staircase. At the bottom of the staircase, on a small table, is the

telephone.

The telephone is Kittys goal.

As quietly as she possibly can, Kitty begins to descend the stairs. Even halfway down,she thanks the Lord in her head for the thick carpeting and the lack of creakingfloorboards.

Once at the bottom, Kitty casts a worried look over her shoulder at the top of thestairs, expecting her mum to be standing there with her hands on her hips and a frown

on her forehead.No such sight awaits her.

Kitty smiles and turns back to the table. Beside the phone is an address book. Sheflicks it open to the Js. With her index finger, she seeks out Jessicas mums number.

The moment of truth.Lifting up the receiver and with trembling fingers, Kitty begins to punch in the

numbers that should connect her to an answer solving the puzzle of her missing friend.The phone is answered at the other end before the second ring, by a womans voice

which sounds strained in panic.

Jessica!?

No, its Kitty, she says in a quiet voice, Kitty Bava, Jessicas friend. Is she there?

Kitty? Kitty, have you seen Jessica? Do you know where my baby is?! The womans

voice is now close to hysteria.

No, Mrs Heywood. Thats why I was calling you. She wasnt in school today and I wasworried, replies Kitty.

Kitty, did you see Jessica last night?

No, we didnt play last night!

She said she was meeting some new friends, Mrs Heywood quickly explains, But I

thought you wouldve be there Kitty, even if she didnt mention you.

Kitty thinks really hard for a second. Did Jessica say a name, Mrs Heywood?

Erm, I think she did Verna? guesses the worried mother.

Kitty shrivels inside, but doesnt let the acknowledgement show in her voice. Mmm,

not too sure about that.

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Kitty takes a deep breath and starts walking more positively towards the mysteriousshape, knowing she can always rely on her fast feet if it comes to that.

The closer Kitty gets, the more fear seems to escape from her little body, as shebegins to realise that the monster she at first thought was infront of her starts to

get less frightening. With each new step, the beast shrinks in size and as her eyes

adjusts to the moonlight; Kitty sees a black dog before her.

Kitty lets out a sigh of relief, releasing the last of the fear from her overactive

imagination.

But then, the dark does that to everyone, doesnt it?Kitty guesses so and begins to feel more concerned for the dog, rather than afraid

of it.

She notices that the struggling she saw from the distance is being caused by the dogs

paw, which seems to be entangled in some of the loose barbs of the barbed wire

fence.

Kitty could quite easily ignore the dog and continue on her mission to the school andhopefully save Jessica, but the dog seems in some distress and Kitty wouldnt feelright leaving the animal to suffer. As Kitty nears the dog for a closer look, it begins to

growl at her.Im only trying to help you, stupid doggy, mumbles Kitty.

She puts her hand out to the mutt, to let it smell her scent. Kittyd read before thatdogs likes to know who its meeting by smell, before you touch it.

The dog takes a nervous sniff of Kittys palm and then gives it a lick.Good dog. Says Kitty. See, you dont need to be scared of me.

The black dog seems to understand her words. It looks up into her eyes andwhimpers, then looks back down to its trapped paw.

Ill take care of you, dont worry. Kitty says as she sets to work on the paw.She carefully unwinds the wire from the dogs foot. It quietly yelps once, but for the

most part waits patiently for its new friend to free it from the barb.

As Kitty gets the last of the wire off the paw, she stands up and tosses it away.

There, she says. Good as new!

The dog barks in happiness and tries to jump up on her.

Get down, silly doggy! giggles Kitty.

Kitty gives it a quick pat on the head.Ive got to go, she says to the dog, but you owe me one. Bye-bye doggy.

Kitty turns from the happy black dog and carefully as possible gets herself through

the fence (its a lot easier in daylight) she then stands on the grassy verge of the road

that should lead her to school.

The rest of the journey to Kittys place of education is uneventful and safe, which is

fine with Kitty. For all she knows there could be enough adventure when she actually

gets to school!

As the weather begins to get even colder, Kitty takes a look at her watch. Its

12.01am. A minute past the witching hour.

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The witching hour.Why did I have to think that?!

To take her mind off the cold, and witches, Kitty begins to run again. As fast as shecan. With her head down and her arms pumping for all theyre worth, she soon forgets

about the cold. By the time Kitty rounds the corner that leads her to the school; she

has a film of sweat on her forehead. She slows to a steady jog as the building comes

into sight.

The light grey granite school is masked in darkness, almost as if trying to hide in the

cover of night. The four storey building towers above Kitty as she makes her way intothe playground area.

Kitty makes a beeline for the front entrance she would normally use during the day

for getting into school.

A large concrete fountain graces the front of the school. The stone spout in the

middle would normally spry water into the air during the day, but at night the

pressures been turned off. The only water to remain is in the base of the large well-like structure. Kitty gives it only a passing glance as she makes her way to the widegranite staircase of ten easy steps, which end at the large wooden double doors of the

school.Making her way to the top of the steps, Kitty stares at the doors before her.

Could Jessica really be in here?Or had she made a bad mistake coming here on her own.

Or would Billy get her? Stop it!

Kitty grabs the handle and turns.Suddenly, Kitty is bathed in bright lights and the sound of a roar meets her ears.

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CHAPTER FIVE

Kitty is frozen in fear.As the mysterious light still shines on her, Kitty just continues to stare at the door

infront of her. Hand still on the handle.The roar dies down to a steady purr, but the lights are still solely focused on her and

her alone.

It was simple.

Someone had caught her.

Or something!

All Kitty can do, is wait for the outcome and pray she can deal with it.

Then she hears, what sounds like a door slamming shut.

Then footsteps.

Footsteps, coming in her direction.Kitty realises right then, that the anticipation of fear is a lot scarier than fear

itself.All fear is, is the unknown.

And thats exactly whats walking up behind her.The unknown.

Suddenly, the unknown, has a voice.What do you think youre doing, young lady!?

Confusion clouds Kittys fear, which is instantly replaced with relief.

Mummy?

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Kitty spins round. Standing at the bottom of the stone steps is Sara. Behind hermother, is the red Mini, with the headlights on full-beam and the engine purring.

Kitty, what are you playing at? Sara persists.I was just

How very dare you sneak out of the house at this time of night! says Sara, cutting

off her daughters explanation.

Kitty tries again.

Mummy, I need to find Jessica! pleads Kitty.

What you need to do, is get yourself in that car and get yourself to bed!NO!

Sara hesitates for a moment, taken aback by the resistance in her daughters tone.

What did you say?

No, mummy, says Kitty, now close to tears. We have to help Jessica!

Help her? Kitty, shell be home in bed. Sara tries to reason with her.

Shes not. I called. Kitty now begins to cry freely. Something bad's happen to her,I know it!You called? You called who? enquires Sara.

Jessicas mum, Kitty manages between her sobs. Shes more worried than I am!But why would you think shes still in school?

Mummy, shes in the boiler room.Sara stiffens.

Kitty isnt slow to notice.The stories about the boiler room are true, arent they?

Dont be ridiculous, snaps Sara, Its just a story to scare children.Then why are you scared?

The question hangs in the air.Sara decides to answer the question with another question.

Why would you think Im scared?

Youre gritting your teeth, says Kitty. You always do that when youre nervous. And

being nervous is the same as being scared.

Rubbish, get into the car, youve got school tomorrow!

No, mummy. Kitty fixes her mum in an unflinching gaze. Ive got school now! But I

need you to help me to help Jessica please!The last thing Saras in the mood for is a tantrum from her daughter. Realising that

the chances of them finding a way into the school, in the first place will prove

fruitless, she decides to go along with it.

For the moment.

OK, says Sara. You find us a way in and well have a quick look to prove to you

Jessica isnt here.

Deal. Kitty turns back to the door she was about to try before her mother showed

up, scaring her half to death. Gripping the handle, Kitty tries it.

The door opens.

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Saras face drops. Oh no!

Kitty turns back to her mother. See, you just have to have faith. She gives Sara asweet smile and disappears inside.

No, you dont, blurts Sara, grabbing her daughter and pulling her aside.

But, mummy! You said youd help!

I am! replies Sara, But Im going first. You just hold my hand and dont let go,

understand?

I understand, smiles Kitty up to her mum.What you smiling at?

Nothing. Youre just braver than I thought.

Sara doesnt answer. She just looks through the open door and into the darkness of

the school beyond. Sara looks back down to her daughter.

Well see.

They enter the school, closing the door behind them.

CHAPTER SIX

In the darkness of the school, Kitty and Sara stand silent.Which way? whispers Sara, keeping her voice low as if in fear of someoneoverhearing them.

But who?

Kitty narrows her eyes in the gloom and looks along the corridor.

Everything looks different in the dark, says Kitty, but I think if we go to the end

of this corridor and turn right, we should find the stairs to take us down to the

basement.

Sara sighs. The basement? Right Great!

I thought you werent scared?Im not scared, it just seems like a long way to walk, thats all. Lies Sara.

Kitty squeezes her mums hand. Dont worry, itll be fine. Kitty also whispers, Juststick with me, this is my turf now! Kitty casts her mum a wicked smile and Sara cant

help but chuckle.With Kitty leading the way, they begin to walk along the dark corridor.

Every classroom door they pass has frosted glass on the upper section. Kitty andSara both secretly imagine a blurred figure or face appearing behind each one, but

neither of them says a word and tries to push the thought to the back of their minds.

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The school itself is in complete silence. The only sound that can be heard is the softclick of the heels on Saras boots and the occasional squeak from Kittys trainers on

the hard polished floor. Other than that, the only other sounds are odd groans andstrains from the build itself.

What are those noises? Kitty nervously asks her mum.

Its nothing to worry about. Replies Sara. Its just the building settling.

What does that mean?

Sara seems to brighten up, realising that talkings making the butterflies in her

stomach fade a little. Some buildings make noises at night while they settle into theirfoundations. Its like when a tree groans and creaks against a strong wind. Sara

explains.

Kitty gives her mums reply some thought as they continue to walk along the dark

corridor, then speaks her doubt. But mummy, its not windy outside at all.

But Im still right, Kitty.

Why?

Because Im your mum, now shut up! Sara smirks down at her daughter.

Kitty looks back along the corridor and giggles to herself.

They reach the end of the corridor, and without saying a word, they both turn right.The last door on the left is marked, Private.

This is it, says Kitty as she looks up at her mum.Sara stares at the door, realising she does not want to enter beyond this point.

Do you really think that Jessicas down there, Kitty? Sara tries to reason. Thestory of Billy isnt true, you know.

Kitty looks up at her mum with a serious face and asks one question.If it isnt true, how do you know his name?

Sara flusters. You mustve mentioned it!Ive never said his name out loud before. Admits Kitty. After some thought, she

then adds. He used to scare you too when you used to go to this school, didnt he?

Sara just looks down at her daughter, but has no reply to the question. But Kitty has

her answer all the same.

I thought so, says Kitty, with renewed tension in her voice.

Sara turns back to the door marked Private. She now has determination etched into

her face. Right, she says, lets do this.Sara grabs the handle of the door and pushes.

It swings open on its hinges to reveal a very dark staircase that seems to descend

into complete pitch blackness.

Mother and daughter stare down into it, both now wishing theyd stayed in bed.

With the lights on.

Kitty is the first one to make a move, tugging her mother by the hand to follow her.

We get Jessica, we get out, we go home. Simple. She says, trying to keep her voice

steady.

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They both cross the threshold of the door and disappear down the stairs. Thedarkness swallowing them as they go.

Neither of them had noticed that the groans from the building were getting louder.

CHAPTER SEVEN

A dark figure of a man stands at the gates to the playground of the school. He scans the area infront of him with determined eyes, trying to seek out theslightest noise from the building before him. Slowly, he walks into the playground, his

shoes making hardly a sound as he treads over the hard tarmac.

As he ventures towards the school, he glances up at the moon shining down on him

and smiles at the silence that night brings.Passing a play area with swings and a see-saw, the dark stranger finds himself

rounding a corner and approaching the front of the school. Ignoring the fountain, he

makes his way straight for the convertible red Mini.

The roof of the vehicles been put back into place to keep out the chill of the night,

but the dark man tries the door handle anyway.

Locked.

He then cups his hand to the glass of the drivers window and bends down, peering

into the car.

Standing back up straight, the man smiles.

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He has found who hes looking for.

He makes his way up the stone steps of the school, heading for the large wooden

double doors.

CHAPTER EIGHT

Darkness surrounds mother and daughter.Still holding hands, Kitty and Sara find themselves at the bottom of the staircase.

Im not sure which way it is now. whispers Kitty.

Well, mutters Sara, If its going to speed things up, I do. Its this way.

Sara guides Kitty round a corner and towards a red door.How do you know? asks Kitty as they approach the door.

We used to dare each other to come down here when Iwas little. Admits Sara.Kitty looks up at her mum in surprise. Did you ever say the words infront of the

No! snaps Sara, cutting off her daughters question. And neither will you.We may have to, to try and get Jessica back.

Sara mumbles to herself. I sincerely hope not.The red door now looms before them. They can just make out in the darkness a

simple plaque in the middle of it which says, Boiler Room.

Sara and Kitty give each other a final brave smile.

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You ready? asks Sara.Kitty takes a deep breath, then exhales loudly. As Ill ever be. Then adds, Thanks

for helping me, mummy.Yeah, well, just remember this the next time you complain when I try to get you to

finish a healthy meal. Sara grins. You owe me one.

Ill remember. I just hope youdont! chuckles Kitty. Her face then turns sombre as

she focuses on the door again. Right, lets do it.

Sara nods in agreement and grabs the handle. Turning it gently, the door swings open

to reveal the boiler room, which is only lit by the light of the moon, shining through awindow high on the far wall.

Kitty takes a confident step forward, making her way to the top of the metal

staircase which would take them down to the cold stone floor of the room, but Sara

holds her back by the hand. Kitty looks up, giving her a confused look.

Ill go first. She whispers down to her daughter, but dont you dare let go of my

hand.

Im not that silly, replies Kitty.

They begin to descend the stairs, taking them one at a time and very slowly. Almost

as if waiting for some surprise attack to come and send them fleeing from the roomand home to safety.But no attack comes.

Walking from the bottom step, the only noise that can be heard is some loose stonescrunching under their shoes. Other than that, the room is deadly silent.

Sooner then theyd hoped, they stand infront of the furnace.Kitty averts her eyes and gazes at the moon shining through the high window. She

secretly wishes that she and her mum could somehow float away, through the windowand travel up the white rays that it casts down and arrive on the surface of the moon

itself. It would be safe there. No more bad things would happen anymore and they

could make it their new home and she would only invite the people she liked to come

stay with them. She could have all her friends and mummy could have all her friends,

and that would be it. No-one else would be allowed.

Yes, that would be nice.

Only her friends.Friends like Jessica

Kitty, are you listening to me?

Kitty is jerked from her thoughts as she looks back to her mum. Sorry?

I said, Jessicas not here.

But mummy, we havent looked yet.

Kitty, were in the boiler room. Unless theres something wrong with my eyes,

Jessica isnt. Where else can we look?

Kitty doesnt utter a word in response; she simply turns her gaze to the furnace.

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Dont be nuts, she isnt in there?! says Sara, with a strange tone coming into hervoice.

Fear?Kitty looks up at her mother with a hard glare. I am not nuts, mummy, states Kitty.

We have to check before we go. We cant just leave without trying!

Sara regards her daughter in silence for a moment, seeing the determination in her

little brown eyes. Sara sighs. Ok.

Sara raises her free hand to open the furnace door, but Kitty stops her.

No.What?

Kitty gives her mum a sad smile. Im going first this time. For Jessica.

Sara can see no point in arguing. Besides, shes standing right by Kitty should

something happen.

Please dont let anything happen!

Sara gives Kitty an approving nod. Kitty reaches a hand up to the small arc door and

slowly begins to open it.

The metal hinge lets out a loud squeal, momentarily breaking the silence and making

both mother and daughter cringe.Sorry, mutters Kitty. Taking her hand away, they both now stare at the opening of

the furnace and at the insides of the contraption itself.

Other than some burnt ashes, the furnace is empty. Much to the relief of both ofthem.

Can we go home now? asks Sara, with a nervous grin on her face.

Kitty is lost in deep thought as she stares at the furnace.Jessica has to be here.

Has to be.Kitty knows what she must do.

Something she herself cant believe shes about to do.

But shes going to do it anyway.

Billy dont burn

Sara jerks her head towards her daughter in disbelief. Kitty, dont you dare say

another word! barks Sara. Weve tried to find Jessica, shes not here!

Billy dont burn.Thats it, young lady, youre going home, right now!

But mummy, its the only way to be sure!

No, counters Sara, Theres another way, and its this way!

Sara starts to pull Kitty by the hand away from the furnace door. Before Kitty

leaves the machine behind, she blurts out a final time, Billy dont

Sara spins round in lightning speed and jams her hand over Kittys mouth, preventing

her from saying the final word.

For the third time.

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Mother and daughter lock eyes. Sara is about to bawl out Kitty, when she sees thesadness and passion in the little girls gaze at what shes trying to achieve. For a

second, Sara is lost herself, in a moment of madness. Kitty is right, she realises. Shegives her daughter a gentle smile, then turns to face the furnace.

All Sara utters is one word.

Burn.

They both fall silent as they gaze at the furnace. Sara, in interior shock at the word

she just said.

Even the groaning of the building they were both subconsciously hearing had ceased.Mummy, what did you say that for? whispers Kitty, without taking her eyes from

the heating device.

Well, if I didnt say it, you were going to.

Again, they just stare at the furnace.

Waiting.

Waiting for something to happen that could chill them to the bone.

After a few moments, they realise that the chill is not going to come.

Yet.

Why hasnt anything happened? Kitty says, breaking the silence.I think we should be thankful nothings happened, dont you?Mummy?

What?Remind me what happens when Billys eaten enough fear.

The next person to say the words Sara stops what shes saying, knowing how thesentence ends.

Kitty finishes it for her none the less.

Sets Billy free, to seek revenge on anyone who stands in his path.Before Sara can respond, a loud shriek of demonic laughter vibrates round the boiler

room.

Kitty hugs her mother tight as those chills they were both expecting make their

appearance.

Oh, god no mutters Sara.

Kitty unburies her face from her mums chest and whispers up to her. Weve done a

very bad thing, havent we?Saras about the answer, when the furnace bursts into life. Flames blaze from where

only a moment ago was only ashes. They lick outside of the small arc door, almost

trying to make a grab for mother and daughter.

Run! shouts Sara, tugging Kitty towards the metal stairs. Kitty doesnt have to be

told twice.

They race up the staircase, taking them two at a time. At the top, Sara throws open

the boiler room door and out, slamming it closed behind them. But the door doesnt fit

back into the opening. Instead, it simply explodes, showering the narrow corridor with

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burning wood splinters and fire, causing Kitty to scream in shock as the heat waveflows over her and Sara.

Faster mummy! yelps Kitty over the noise of the crackling flames.Sara doesnt reply, she just pours on as much speed as possible and tightens her grip

on Kittys hand.

They find the stairway that should lead them back into the public area of the school

and take them quicker than the last.

As they race nearer the door at the top of the stairs, Sara has the strangest

thought pop into her head. What if the staircase never ends?!

As a child herself, Sara used to be plagued by nightmares of monsters chasing her up

flights of stairs towards a door.

A door that would lead her to salvation.

But the only problem was, the staircase was never ending.

Every time Sara would dash up another step, one would automatically be added to the

top of the staircase, making it so she would never reach the door at the top.

And never escape the anonymous fiend which would pursue her.

What if that reoccurring childhood dream was infact a sign; preparing her for thisvery night?The more it forms in Saras mind, the surer she is its going to happen.

Until she slams the palm of her hand onto the door in question, thrusting it open andleading both mother and child to relative safety.

For now.Once back in the corridor, neither of them stop running. The door slams closed

behind Kitty, as they burn the rubber on the soles of their shoes in their desperatebid for the front double doors of the school.

But as Sara nears the door, she notices the handle of it moving from the other side.

She stops dead in her tracks, also jerking Kitty to a halt. She gives her mother a

confused and scared look. What you doing, mummy? Kitty pleads.

Sara doesnt take her eyes from the door infront of them. No more than twenty feet

away. Look!

Kitty follows her mums line of vision and sees the moving handle. Oh no, she

whimpers. Do you think its Billy?Sara looks back at the door they just left behind.

The one she expects Billy to come charging through any minute.

But he doesnt.

The school is now silent again, but for the noise of the main school door handle

turning.

Sara turns her attention back to the door.

Kitty also stares at it. Both trying to figure out whos on the other side.

With the door theyve left behind now silent, it could only be one person.

Billy!

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Mummy, what do we do?! asks Kitty.Sara, thinks for a moment and is about to answer, when the wooden double doors are

kicked from the other side with such force that they fly open to reveal a manstanding in the open doorway.

Sara and Kitty sink to their knees in fear.

The man stands silhouetted by the moonlight. His identity shrouded in darkness.

Kitty, once again, buries her head in her mums chest. Sara glares at the darkened

figure, who she knows, without seeing his eyes, is glaring right back at her.

Then the figure speaks.

CHAPTER NINE

Did someone order a big best friend?Kitty jerks her head back out of her mums chest. Jack?!

In the flesh. Replies the dark shape, as he walks further into the corridor, awayfrom the open doorway.

Kitty gets up and runs to him.

Jack stops and awaits her approach.

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Dressed in a black leather jacket, t-shirt, jeans and trainers, Jack grins as Kittyjumps into his arms and he holds her tight.

Jack had been a friend of the two girl family even since hed taken a weekend trip toLondon three years ago. Hed just step off The London Eye, when hed seen a little girl

in distress. The little girl in question was Kitty. She was only five years old back then,

and had dropped one of her favourite dolls into the Thames River. Sara didnt know

what to do, so Jack had managed to get himself down onto the bank of the river, and

using his belt, had been able to reach the doll and pull it back to shore. He instantly

became a hero in Kittys eyes and they became best little and big friend right thereand then. Sara then asked him to join them to grab a burger and a coffee and the rest

was history. Even though Jack lived in Scotland, he and Sara texted each other every

day and he spoke to Kitty on the phone as often as possible. He loved her like she was

his own daughter and knew she was the most special thing in his life, and Sara came

right behind her.

What, did you think I wouldnt come?

Course I knew youd come, responds Kitty, and your timing couldnt be better!

Really? While still holding Kitty, Jack makes his way along to where Sara is just

beginning to get to her feet. Have you found Jessica yet? continues Jack, as he putsKitty back into her feet by her mother.Sara hugs Jack and whispers into his ear, Whatre you doing here?!

Before Jack can answer, Kitty cuts in. Hes helping us find Jessica.Thats exactly right, Jack says, keeping his eyes on Sara.

But, how did you?Again, Kitty cuts in to answer her mothers question.

I called him.Sara looks down at her daughter. I think someone should start helping out with the

phone bill, dont you?Kitty chuckles to herself. Then it looks like Im going to need a raise in pocket

money, doesnt it?

Jack looks around the corridor of the school, then back to Sara and Kitty. Its a

little late for class, isnt it?

Kitty replies, Jessicas in the boiler room!

Whats she doing in there? asks Jack.Long story. Says Sara.

Then lets go get her! Jack begins to walk further along the corridor, but Sara

grabs his arm.

Weve already been down, whispers Sara, Shes not there.

Then who is? Jack enquires.

Before either Sara or Kitty can answer, the door at the end of the corridor explodes

into the hallway.

All three of them stand dumbfounded, staring at the ball of flames and wood

splinters as they litter the polished floor of the school.

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Jacks the first to break the spell of their silence.Ok, Im guessing that aint a good thing!

Its Billy, squeaks Kitty, as her eyes never leave the sight before them. HesBefore Kitty can finish, a figure appears through the flaming doorway.

The figure itself is also in flames.

Jacks mesmerised and speaks in a faraway voice. Thats gotta hurt.

Oh my god! is all Sara can utter.

Maybe I shouldve stayed in bed after all, Kitty mutters to herself.

The figure of fire is the same size of an average man, but the flames that blisterand crackle from him give him the appearance of someone a lot larger.

Kitty is the first one to burst into action.

This way! Kitty says, as she grabs both her mother and Jack by the hand.

Kitty pulls them in the direction of the nearest classroom door and kicks at it,

thrusting it open. The three of them dash in, closing it as quietly as possible behind

them.

Inside the classroom, Kitty, Sara and Jack stand with their backs to the door. All of

them quietly gulping in some air.

Now what? Jack whispers.Kitty looks up at him and shrugs her shoulders. I just thought getting out of the

corridor was a good enough start. I didnt think much further ahead than that.

Fair enough. Jack then notices the frosted glass panel on the door theyre against.Get away from the door!

Sara and Kitty look at him, confused.Hell see us through the glass! says Jack, nodding at the transparent frosting.

Come on, quickly!Jack grabs them both by the hand and leads them further into the classroom.

Making their way to the far corner, they huddle down and keep their eyes on thefrosted glass.

Waiting for anything to pass in the corridor beyond.They dont have to wait long.

The dull corridor behind the frosted glass begins to brighten, as the fiery figure of

Billy walks past the door. Then dulls again.

Kitty looks to Sara, then Jack. Why did he just walk past without coming in to getus?

Jack gives her a confused look. Would you like me to go call him back?!

Kitty scowls at him. Dont get funny with me, Mister!

Jack cant help but smile. If you agree to stop asking silly questions, I wont get

funny with you, deal?

Deal, smirks Kitty.

Sara decides to ask the same silly question. But why didhe walk past? He must know

were in here!

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Without wasting anymore time, Jack steps back into the classroom, closing the doorbehind him and makes his way back to Kitty and Sara.

Whatever that was, is gone and the doors are still open, announces Jack, Weshould make our move now!

Dyou promise well come back for Jessica? asks Kitty.

Princess, I cross my heart and hope to die.

Stick a needle in your eye? persists Kitty.

How about I stick one in your mums butt, retorts Jack, Then we can get outta

here even quicker!Watch it, Scotsman, or Ill throw a haggis at you! responds Sara.

Kitty chuckles and then adds. But you do promise, dont you?

Jack picks up Kitty in his arms and looks straight into her beautiful brown eyes.

Kitty, have I ever lied to you?

Kitty thinks for a second. I dont think so.

Dyou know why?

Why?

Cause Im a good liar! laughs Jack, as he puts Kitty down again.

Kitty just smiles and shakes her head at her big best friend. You better notlie tome, or therell be trouble!Jack rubs a hand over her long dark hair. Little dude, Ill never lie to you, I swear.

Dont swear, replies Kitty, Im only eight!Jack chuckles to himself as he turns to face the door again in the far corner of the

room. As he focuses on the exit of the room, he says, Kitty, Ill do my best, but ifthat thing shows up again, my language may raise to the level of an 18 certificate, so

youd better get ready to cover your ears!You better not even think about it! chimes Sara.

Dude, Ill try.Come on, if were going to go, lets go! Sara urges.

Jack turns round at the haste that Saras in. Dyou wanna go first?Point taken. Whenever youre ready. She gives Jack a sweet smile.

Jack turns and makes his way to the door, mumbling under his breath, Women.

I heard that!

Supposed to, stinky!

As they walk, Kitty is comforted by the waffle between her mum and big best friend.

Until they reach the door.

Then all humour is lost and all three stand in silence.

Once again, the seriousness of the situation registers in each individual psyche.

Whether man, woman or child, they all know what lays on the other side of the door.

Danger.

Jack grabs the handle again.

Stand back a little. He whispers to Kitty and Sara.

They both take a step back and await Jacks next move.

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Slowly, he opens the door again, but just a few inches this time.Just enough for him to see that the corridor is still clear and that the monsters still

out of sight.Convinced, he closes the door again and turns to mother and daughter. Right, its

clear, heres the plan

Suddenly the doors thrust open from the other side as a fiery hand lunges in and

grabs Jack by the collar of his leather jacket. Before he even has a chance to shout in

fear, hes wrenched out the door and it slams closed behind him.

The classroom is silent again.

CHAPTER TEN

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Sara stands frozen in shock.No! yells Kitty, as she makes a grabs for the handle.

Sara snaps out of it, as she pulls her daughter from the door. Ill get him, Kitty!

Sara yanks on the handle, but the door will not budge. Oh my, God!

She tries again, but to no avail. Sara feels for a lock but cant even find a key-hole.

Sara turns and looks around the classroom for inspiration.

What do we do, mummy? We have to save Jack! demands Kitty.

Sara frantically looks at Kitty. Find something to break the glass! We have to getthis door open before its too late!Kitty races round the room, flipping up all the tops of the desks, trying to find

anything she thinks might work in breaking the frosted glass of the door, while Saracontinues to try and open the door manually.

Beneath her fingers, the handle begins to move.Sara almost shouts in victory.

Until the handle turns red hot.Then Sara shouts in pain, lets go of the handle and falls to the floor, blowing on her

scorched fingers.Kitty stops what shes doing. Mummy, whats wrong?!

Dont touch that handle, Sara says, as she gets back to her feet. We have to

break that glass, now! she demands, pointing at the frosted glass window.

I cant find anything! All the desks are empty!

Then we usea desk! barks Sara.

Sara marches over to where Kitty stands and grabs the edge of the nearest desk.

Kitty tries to help as they drag it closer to the door. The legs of the worktable

screech on the floor, but neither of them pays the slightest attention to the noise as

their main goal is saving Jack.Once theyre about ten feet from the door, Sara stops and says to Kitty, Can you

lift it?

Its a bit heavy for me, mummy, but Ill try.

Good girl

But before they get a chance to even try to heave the table at the frosted glass, the

window itself explodes in on them, as Jack comes flying back into the classroom with

great force, as hes flung from the other side.

Kitty and Sara yelp as they duck down, both covering their head with their hands asrazor sharp shards of glass rain down on them.

Jack crashes onto the top of the desk, tumbles off and skids along the floor. Comingto a jarring stop as he hits the far wall.

He then goes still.

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Kitty and Sara, slowly get to their feet, their eyes never leaving the shattered painof frosted glass. Alert for the appearance of the flaming figure of Billy, the boiler

room monster.An appearance that doesnt come.

Kitty is the first one to jerk her head in the direction of her big best friend, who

lays unconscious by the classroom wall.

Mummy, is Jack ok? Kitty whispers. He isnt moving!

Only now does Sara takes her vision from the door. Staring at Jack, she whispers

back to her daughter, I think hes just knocked out.They both begins to slowly venture over to the prone figure of their friend.

Jack lays facing the wall, his shoulder resting against it. Sara crouches down and

gently pulls him onto his back.

He flops over lifelessly.

Is he dead?! blurts Kitty, with a note of helplessness coming into her voice, as she

kneels down beside Jack.

Sara gazes at Jack.

Now looking through the trained eyes of a nurse.

Taking hold of his wrist, she feels for a pulse.Hes not dead. Says Sara, without taking her eyes from Jack.So whys he not awake? asks Kitty.

Sara leaves the question unanswered as she puts the palm of her hand on Jackschest, trying to detect the motion it should make while intaking air. Her next

statement is more of a realisation out loud, rather than an answer to Kittys question.Hes not breathing!

No! hisses Kitty, becoming breathless herself as she starts to panic. Do something,mummy!

This sucks! grumbles Sara. Kitty, keep your eyes on the door incase that thingcomes back.

Ok, just save Jack! demands the little girl as she turns her attention back to thebroken classroom door, dread now etched into her features.

Sara pinches Jacks nose between her thumb and index finger and tilts his head back

a little further to fully open his airways. She then puts two fingers from her other

hand into his mouth to check for anything blocking his throat.

Its empty.

Sara takes a deep breath, preparing herself to give her best friend mouth to mouth

resuscitation.The kiss of life.

Werent kisses supposed to be fun!?

Jack is like the big brother Sara never had. Shell do whatever she has to, to save

him.

Staring into his closed eyes, she slowly begins to lower herself down, her mouth

opening to match Jacks.

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A split second before their lips connect, Jack coughs.Right into Saras mouth.

Jerking back, Sara shouts, Oh my god!Jack thrusts himself into a sitting position, while continuing with the coughing fit.

Kitty has turned back round and is happily gazing at her big best friend.

Youre alive!

Sara just stares at him till he finishes coughing and gasping for air.

You ok? she asks.

Jack has a final cough.Im guessing thats a rhetorical question, as I just got beat up by a fiery guy!

retorts Jack. Being ok, is something thats looking like being on the bottom of my to

do list, till we get our butts outta here!

Sara just continues staring at him, tilts her head to the side and waits for a proper

answer.

Other than needing a nappy change, Im peachy. Jack adds, giving Sara a sarcastic

smile.

It then turns into a natural smile, as he keeps his eyes on Sara.

What were you trying to do to me, anyway?I was trying to save you! replies Sara.Mummy was going to give you the kiss of life! offers Kitty.

Now, thatsscary. Jack says to Kitty.Kitty chuckles to herself and Sara smacks Jack on the arm.

Hey, whats that for?! Jack laughs.I thought you were in trouble!

Next time, just gimme a cigarette. Smirks Jack.No! snaps Kitty, I dont want you to smoke!

Jack stops laughing and smiles at Kitty. Im kidding, princess. Didnt I tell you I wasgoing to stop?

Yes. Responds Kitty.There you go then.

Kitty grins to herself. Good.

Jack pushes himself to his feet. Right, were going to have to get out of here.

Tell us something we dont know!? says Kitty.

Any ideas? Jack asks both girls.

Well, the corridors out of the question, Sara returns.

Ten out of ten for observation, dude.Youll get another smack, if you dont watch out!

As long as you dont try to kiss me again, were cool! Jack retorts.

Muppet. Is all Sara gives back.

Kitty laughs.

From the corridor of the school comes a roar.

All humour is lost from the face of man, woman and child.

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Kitty is the first to talk. I really think its time to go!You get my vote. Mutters Jack.

But where do we go? asks Sara, with a real note of panic coming into her voice.Kitty turns to the window, a plan hatching in her mind. We go out the window! she

offers. Were on the ground floor, so were not exactly going to fall very far.

Jack dashes to the window without saying a word and tries to wrench open one of

them. The handle turns, but the window stays closed. Gritting his teeth, he tries even

harder to the point where a fart noise escapes from his mouth due to the pressure

hes putting himself through.Finally letting go of the handle, he mumbles, We may have a problem.

So I heard, says Sara. You ready for that nappy change now?

The windows stuck. Jack replies, ignoring Saras vain attempt at humour. We need

to find something to break it with.

Mother and daughter look at each other and both say the same thing at the same

time

The desk!

Yes! gasps Jack, still recovering from his exertions.

Sara hurries over to the desk beside the shattered classroom door, never taking hereyes from the broken frosted glass and listening for the approach of the boiler roommonster, but she hears nothing. Jack joins her and they drag the desk over to the

window.Without saying a word, they take a side each and lift it. As they begin to gently

swinging it at the glass, Jack says, It been a long time since Ive chucked a desk out aclassroom window!

Sara raises a waxed eyebrow. You threw a desk out of a classroom window?!Trust me, it was a bad day. The dog had eaten my homework and the cat had taken a

dump in my plimsoles.Sara shakes her head at her old friend and before Kitty can laugh out loud at Jacks

statement, both mother and Scotsman sling the desk at the window.The noise is deafening.

Sara and Jack dash infront of Kitty to protect her from any flying glass as they

watch the desk disappear from sight and clatter on the ground outside.

Through the broken window, the darkness of night beckons.

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CHAPTER ELEVEN

Jack elbow punches some of the jagged shards of the glass that still remains in thewindow frame and then begins to climb out.

As he steadies his feet on the lip of the windowsill, Kitty says, Be careful.Jack turns his head round and whispers down to her. Carefuls my middleJacks trainer slips off the ledge of the window and he goes head first out the

framework with a yelp, which is more becoming of a little girl whos just dropped herice-cream cone, rather than that of a man of 34 years old.

Oh my! gasps Kitty, as she dashes to the window and peers over the edge.Sara just rolls her eyes and mumbles under her breath, Div.

Are you ok? Kitty softly says to the figure in the gloom on the stony ground of theplayground beneath the window.

Jack groans back up to her. Ok, careful usedto be my middle name, but now Imsure your mothers got a better one.

Kitty grins to herself as she realises that Jacks not hurt as she watches him push

himself back to his feet. Her face sobers as he looks at her through the broken

window. Jack notices the change in her face too.

Whats wrong, princess?

Why didnt he take you?

What? Jack asks.

Kitty concentrates on what shes saying. Why didnt Billy the boiler room monster

keep you, instead of giving you back to us?Ah, says Jack, You mean why did he throw me through a frosted glass partition in

a classroom door, crash me off the top of a desk and nearly kill me by slamming me

against a wall?

Exactly! returns Kitty.

I guess he just didnt want to hurt me. Jack replies with a chuckle. Come on, lets

go. He holds out his arms for Kitty to grab onto as he helps her through the broken

classroom window. Sara holds up Kitty from behind, managing to get her through the

window safely and into Jacks arms.

Jack lowers her to the ground. I think its time we got out of here and well comeback with the cavalry for Jessica, deal? he asks Kitty.

Kitty thinks about it for a second. You promise?My hearts crossed and I cant see for the amount of needles that are sticking out

of my eyes.I think you have to eat a manure pie too!

Excuse me?!

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I think thats how the rhyme goes Kitty creases her forehead in deep thought,and then recites the rhyme out loud Cross your heart and hope to die, stick a needle

in your eye and eat a cow manure pie! Yip, you have to eat a cow manure pie!Jack laughs and ruffles Kittys hair with his hand. I think well leave the cow manure

pie eating to your mum!

Kitty bursts out laughing as well. Jack looks back up through the broken window at

Sara, whos still in the classroom.

Sara isnt laughing.

Shes just staring wide eyed at Jack, with a shocked expression, like a suddenthought has just occurred to her that has terrified Sara to her very soul.

Hey Dude, whats wrong? Jack enquires. I was just kidding about the pie eating.

They only make them in Scotland anyway and are quite popular will Glaswegians, but

then, theyre full of it anyway!

Sara just continues to stare for a moment, then blurts out, He didnt want you!

Say again?

That, thing, didnt want you.

Which is a good thing, Jack replies, with a grin coming onto his face.

No, says Sara vacantly, He did want you, because you didnt go to this school And mummy did and I still do! murmurs Kitty.Jack looks down to the little girl. Kitty glances up and holds him in a hard stare. He

wants mummy and me!Not going to happen, princess. Says Jack, casting down the same hard stare to

reassure his best little friend. Its going to take more than a big scary fiery guy tostop me from protecting you and your mum.

Suddenly, another roar comes from the corridor of the school, just outside theshattered classroom door.

Not much more, granted. Adds Jack.The door then explodes inwards as a torrent of fire enters the room, heading directly

for Sara.Sara only has a split second to react to her unplanned predicament of peril. She

lunges at the smashed window just as the force of the heat-wave hits her, projecting

her further out the window then shed hoped for. The flames seem to reach out and

try to lick at the soles of her departing boots as she sails through the broken window

frame and into the night beyond.

Jack has already started to jog backwards, his eyes staying on Sara, as if readying

himself to catch a football.Thats if footballs came in the form of a flying Sara!

Ive got ya! he yells.

Sara crashes headlong into Jack and they both crumble to the ground, slamming

Jacks back on the hard concrete.

Sara rolls off Jack and looks back at the classroom shes left behind. Fire now rages

out of control.

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Kitty runs over to join them. Mummy, you ok?Sara pushes herself to her feet, rubbing her hands on her jeans. Im fine.

Sara puts her arm round her daughter as they both look at the burning classroom.That was a little too close for comfort, mummy.

I noticed. Sara says, looking down at Kitty. You about ready to go home now?

Kitty nods. Things havent gone exactly as Id planned.

I noticed that too, quips Sara, grinning down at Kitty.

Kitty smiles back and all she can reply is, Oops!

Sara chuckles and gives her a kiss on the head.Im fine too, by the way! cuts in Jack.

Sara and Kitty turn back round to look at their old friend. He still lies on his back

with a look of discomfort on his face.

He groans as he pushes himself to his feet. Dude, I think you put a dent in my six-

pack!

You wish, replies Sara.

Jack joins them as all three watch the burning classroom.

Right, says Jack, Since none of us has remembered the marshmallows, I think its

time to go.Yeah Sara begins to reply, but something within the flames of the classroom

catches her eye.

Then they all see it.Hidden amongst the flames, a figure appears.

The figure of Billy, the boiler room monster.He stands at the broken window with the flames from his own body mixing with those

from the classroom. Even though his features cant be made out all that clearly, Kitty,Sara and Jack all know hes glaring straight at them.

Definitely time to go. Mumbles Kitty.Just as they turn to run, Billy lets out a roar of pure rage and propels a fireball from

his hand, just as a child would throw a snowball at a friend.But Billy is no friend.

Move! shouts Sara, as she pushes both Kitty and Jack out of the way. But Sara

forgets to move herself at the same time.

The fireball explodes just two feet infront of her.

The blast sends her flying backwards into the night air and crashing back down onto

the tarmac of the playground. She lands with a yelp and rolls, trying in vain to get to

her feet again as quickly as possible, but when she puts her hand on the ground topush herself up, her arm buckles beneath her, making Sara scream in pain.

Jack dashes over to help and gets Sara onto her feet and with Kitty for support;

they begin to flee.

As they run, Sara says what Jack already suspects. I think my arms broken!

No! shouts Kitty.

Dont worry, Kitty. Says Jack, Well get to the car, get your mum to hospital and

everythingll be fine, promise.

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Im going to killthat Billy monster!! rants Kitty.

You and me both, kiddo. Agrees Jack.They continue round to the front of the school, with Sara being helped by Jack at

one side and Kitty on the other.

The sight of the vinyl roofed red Mini is the salvation they seek and gives them that

extra spurt of speed that their aching bones need.

As they arrive at the vehicle, Sara states the obvious. Whos going to drive?!

Gimme the keys! blurts Jack.But

Now!

Sara fishes the keys out her pocket with her good hand and Jack snatches them

from her, his eyes now focusing on the corner of the school, waiting for a familiar

fiery figure to appear any moment.

Only the darkness teases him with forbidding shadows.

Jack barks one final command. Get in!

Sara hurries round to the passenger side without a word, realising her best friend is

now on a mission and any defiance on her part will only slow the process down.Even if he is being a div!

Jack opens the drivers door, pulls forward the seat and ushers Kitty into the back.

She dives in and Jack pushes the seat back into an upright position and gets inhimself. Before he has a chance to close the door, he hears Sara squeal from the

passengers side.Jack doesnt need to look back to the corner of the school. He already knows the

cause of Saras squeal.But he does.

The flaming figure of Billy stands staring at them.For a fleeting second Jack wanders why the fiery demon from hell hasnt just came

out the front double doors of the building, which still stand wide open. But as heglances at them, he realises why.

Billy wants them back insidethe school.

Without wasting another second, Jack reaches over and unlocks the passenger door,

allowing Sara to fling herself into the seat, slamming the door closed behind her and

locking it again, quickly. Jack sticks the key into the ignition and turns, bringing the

car to life.

As he stares out the windscreen, the double wooden doors of the school crash closedon their own accord.

Jack, Sara and Kitty look out the Minis windows at Billy, still standing motionlessly at

the corner of the school.

Jack mumbles, Guess hes not wanting us back in after all.

My plan would be to go home, very quickly! mutters Kitty, her eyes staying on the

fiery beast in the distance.

Mine too. Concurs Sara.

Jack glances at Sara. Remember all those time youve promised me a driving lesson?

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Yes..?Well, its time for a crash course!

Look out! warns Kitty.

Jack and Sara darts their eyes back to Billy.

Hes preparing another fireball.

Move! shouts Sara, yanking the gear-stick into reverse with her good hand. Jack

stamps down the accelerator and the car shoots backwards just as Billy lets fly withthe ball of flames.

It explodes not six feet infront of the car, which causes the nose of the vehicle to

actually lift from the ground several inches before bouncing back down again. Kitty

sighs a sign of relief as she thought for a worrying moment that the car was going to

be toppled.

Jack struggles with the steering as the front wheels make contact with the ground

again. The Mini is now nudging 40 M.P.H in reverse as Jack wrenches the wheel to the

side and jams on the brakes, spinning the car round to face forward and in the same

movement Sara thrusts the gear-stick into First, knowing what Jacks plans are. Hetakes his foot off the brake and back onto the gas peddle, causing the tyres to spinsfor precious moments before gaining purchase on the concrete floor of the playground

before shooting them forward, towards the front gates of the school, and with a littleluck, freedom.

Kitty cranes her head round and looks out the back window. Hes not moving sheshouts.

Well, thats the good news. Mutters Jack, as he keeps his attention on his firstdriving experience. The gates of the school are in sight now as he slams the car into

Second gear. With only fifty feet to travel before freedom, Jack chances a sidewaysgrin at Sara. Looks like were gonna make it, dude!

Sara doesnt take her eyes from the windscreen. Dont count your chickens beforetheyve hat Saras eyes widen, but its Kitty that voices the vision that her mother

sees.

Not good! shouts the little girl.

Jack focuses back on the gates.

His heart sinks.

The iron gates have burst into flames.

No longer are they made of metal.The flames blister and spurt as the Mini races ever closer.

With only twenty feet to go, Sara pulls up the handbrake and Jack twists the wheel,

sending the car into a skid, turning it away from the fiery exit. Once their course has

been changed enough, Sara releases the handbrake again and Jack powers the Mini

back towards the forbidding building of the school.

This is nuts! blurts Sara.

Bud, this is more than nuts! replies Jack, This is an amalgamation of everything

kernel!

Kitty stares at the back of Jacks head. What does that mean?!

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Jack glances in the rearview mirror and catches Kittys eye. Dictionary, Is all he

says.

Jack then slams on the brakes halting the car completely.

What you doing? demands Sara.

Jack just stares out the windscreen and points. Were back where we started.

Kitty looks from between the two front seats and sees what Jack means. Once again,they are positioned infront of the closed double doors of the school.

Now what?! Sara asks worriedly.

Kitty turns to look back at the gates of the school.

Theyve stopped burning, but the figure of Billy now stands beside them.

He sees us! yelps Kitty.

Jack locks Shu in a determined stare. Hes outside.

And? enquires Sara.

I think wed better get back inside.

Im not getting out this car! counters Sara.Jack looks back to the double wooden doors of the school which stand at the top of

the ten wide stone steps. Who said anything about getting out the car?

Sara looks back to the double door now too, beginning to realise what Jacks thinking.Whatre we doing? asks Kitty from the back seat.

Jack catcher her in the rearview again.Princess, fasten your seatbelt.

It takes no more than a second for the penny to drop for Kitty.Uh oh. Is all she utters as she scrambles her hands for the seat restraint.

Jack begins to rev the car as he looks over to Sara. Hows the arm?Sara half grins and wiggles her fingers. False alarm, it aint broken, just a sprain

The nights still young, smirks Jack.Saras about to reply, when she sees his expression change and realises he isnt

looking at her anymore, but just past her. She follows his line of vision out her side

window and sees Billy preparing another fireball in the distance.

Time to go! shouts Sara.

Kitty, you buckled up? checks Jack.

GO! Is all the confirmation Kitty gives him.

Jack stamps his foot down.The Mini takes off like a rocket.

The fireball explodes behind them, giving them that extra bit of speed.

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CHAPTER TWELVE

When they reach the bottom of the stairs, they all close their eyes.The Mini treats the stone steps like a stuntmans ramp, propelling it into the double

doors.

The impact is loud.The car smashes through the wood of the doors sending splinters flying and

shattering both headlights of the vehicle at the same time as the tyres connect withthe polished floor of the school with a rubber squeal.

Jack snaps open his eyes and tries to keep the Mini in a straight line, but its already

off course as it careers off a classroom wall and rebounds over to the other side of

the corridor. A wing mirror is wrenched off as the car collides with the other wall.

Jack finally loses control and crashes the vehicle into a classroom wall with a jarring

stop.

Oops. Mumbles Jack.

Sara turns round in her seat to check on Kitty. Kitty just grins back at her. Can we

do that again?Not tonight, dopey. Replies Sara.

Jack notices something in the rearview mirror.

The fiery shape of Billy stands at the ruined doors of the school.

Even through the flames, Jack can tell that hes grinning at them.

We move, now! commands Jack.

Sara looks out the back window and sees the danger. She unclasps Kitty from the

seatbelt and gets herself out the car quickly, pulling down the seat for Kitty to get

out too.

Jack scrambles out his side and joins the girls in the middle of the corridor.All three stare at Billy at the door.

Billy stares back.Then starts preparing another fireball.

Kitty, Sara and Jack dont wait to see the end result.This way! shouts Kitty.

She grabs her mother and big best friend by the hand and runs along the corridor,just as Billy lets loose with the fireball. It lands where they wouldve been standing if

Kitty hadnt pulled them away and explodes beside the Mini, sending the car reeling

through the classroom wall, through the classroom itself, out the large window and

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back into the playground, surprisingly landing on its wheels with a grinding of metal notfar from the concrete water fountain.

Not one of them have the time or the incentive to look back at the carnage theyve

narrowly escaped, as Kitty continues to tug at Jack and Sara, pulling them round a

corner to a staircase.

They take the stairs in leaps and bounds.When they get to the third flight Jack mutters, How far we going?!

Just one more, answers Kitty.

If Sara had the energy to object she would.

But she hasnt.

As they scramble round the corner to face the fourth flight, they all hear the noise

of someone else enter the stairwell.

Neither of them says a word, but each one of them speeds up that little bit more.

As they crash through the door leading onto the fourth floor corridor, they all have

imminent dread itched on their features as the approach of Billy is present in theirears.Kitty, which way? gasps Sara.

Kitty looks up and down the gloomy hallway for a second trying to get her bearings,then snaps, This way! as she commences running again.

Sara and Jack give chase, both with sweat masking their face.Wait up, little dude, pants Jack.

Kitty suddenly stops.Jack and Sara catch up to her and notice the pained expression on her face.

I made a mistake! Kitty says with a little embarrassment in her voice. We shouldvebeen on the third floor!

Before anyone can ask why, the fiery sight of Billy appears through the stairwaydoor.

Move! shouts Jack and pulls both girls into the nearest classroom.

Slamming the door behind them, they all go silent and listen.

They hear distant footsteps begin to approach.

Sara scans the class theyre in and realises it a science room. Beakers and test tubes

in their holders line some of the desks and in the centre of each wooden table is the

gas tap of a Bunsen burner.Sara pushes herself away from the door, a plan slowly hatching in her exhausted

brain. Hey dude, Ive got a plan!

Jack gazes at her as she turns one of the burner taps on. Sara half smirks a nervous

smirk as the gas begins to hiss out of the nozzle.

We fight fire with fire! Sara announces.

All Jack can do is give her a confused look. Ok, but how do weget out?!

The window! suggests Kitty.

Jack dashes over to the window to check the height. He cups his hands to the glass

and peers out into the darkness. No way, its far too high.

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Then were goosed! proclaims Kitty.Jacks about to turn away from the window, when something else catches his eye.

He smiles as he faces Kitty again. No, princess, were not goosed.

No?

No. replies Jack.

Whatve you seen? asks Sara, as she quickly makes her way to the window. Kittyjoins them.

Jack points down to the playground. You see what I see?

Kitty and Sara both cups their hands to the glass and see exactly what Jacks talking

about.

The water fountain.

You mean..? Kitty begins.

We jump into the fountain?! ends Sara.

The waters a good couple of feet deep. More than enough to break your fall! Jack

explains. Erm, you just have to make sure you dont miss. He decides to add.Sara turns and looks him straight in the eye. You had to say that, didnt you!Well, I thought Id better make things clear to you both, Jack says as he looks

back over to the desk Sara stood at upon entering the room, Since youve left thatgas tap on, I figured were kind of on a clock here!

Oh no! Sara blurts as she makes a move towards the table to shut it off, but Jackgrabs her by the arm and gazes deep into her eyes, an unfamiliar look of seriousness

coming into them.Sara, we dont have time for a plan B, he says, Its time for you both to go. Jack

then looks to Kitty. Right you, turn on the rest of the taps, quickly!Kitty does as shes told and dashes from table to table cranking on all the gas taps.

Jack grabs up a chair, as Sara gets out the way, and flings it at the window, shatteringthe glass with ease. Kitty joins them both at the broken window and helps Jack pull a

desk over for them to stand on to make it easier to get out the jagged frame. Sara

and Kitty both climb up.

Jack remains on the floor and stares at the classroom door.

What you doing? asks Kitty.

Somebodys got to hang back to make sure this works. Mutters Jack.

Then we allwill! replies Kitty.For a moment, Kitty glares down at Jack. The room is silent apart from the hiss of

the escaping gas.

Fine! Jack gives up, as he pulls himself onto the desk to join them.

Kitty, Sara and Jack now only stare at the door of the classroom, awaiting the

appearance of Billy, the boiler room monster.

As they strain their ears, they hear footsteps getting louder.

I hope you guys forgive me for this. Says Jack.

For what? asks Sara.

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Well, says Sara, If youre going to play the hero, you should be prepared to takethe consequences for your actions.

If Id realised those consequences involved a gear-stick up the butt, trust me, Iwouldve passed on the job. Jack gives Sara a tired grin of victory. You gonna gimme

a hand, then?

Sara grabs Jack and helps him out the vehicle.

They stand and stare at each other.

Thanks for tonight, dude. Mumbles Sara.

Hey, what are friends for?!

Sara laughs, Lots of things, but Id never expected to need one to come to the

rescue when faced with a fire induced psychopath from beyond the grave, whos intent

on seeking revenge from a past when we werent even born!

Jack just stares at her. Easy for you to say. He chuckles.

Come here.

Sara grabs Jack and gives him a hug.As Kitty get out of the fountain, she stands with her back to the school watching her

mum and best big friend celebrate their victory.

She smiles to herself.No-one sees the fiery figure of Billy loom up behind her.

Kitty senses the danger at the last moment and spins round.Billy is no more than ten feet infront of her. Kitty can feel the heat coming off his

flame ridden body. She would scream if she wasnt so scare, but the cry for help isfrozen in her throat.

Billy lunges at her.Just before Kitty closes her eyes in terror, she sees a dark shape bounding out of

the night.Kitty hears a growl and realises its not coming from Billy.

Snapping her eyes open again, she sees the owner of the growl.

The black dog pounces at Billy, knocking him away from Kitty at the last moment and

tumbling the fiery figure from hell into the fountain. Kitty herself, falls onto her bum

in shock and surprise as Billy yelps and screams from the water, thrashing and

scrambling to get back out again.

But he cant.The water extinguishes his flames and he disappears in the dull liquid.

Sara and Jack coming running up behind Kitty and as the black dog pads over to her,

Kitty puts out her hand and the mutt begins to lick her fingers.

Kitty could swear that the dog is smiling.

Shes glad she saved it from the barbed wire fence earlier in the night.

Kitty, you ok?! asks Sara worriedly.

Kitty just grins, Im fine mummy.

Jack pats the dog on the head. Good boy.

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Jacks about to say something else, when the school begins to groan and strain veryloudly.

The three of them look to the building.Even the dog gives it a glance.

Fire begins to shoot from the roof and the structure itself starts to crumble.

Sara say one word.

RUN!

Picking up Kitty, they run for all theyre worth, the black dog keeping up with them no

problem.

When they feel theyve got far enough away, they stop and turn to watch the

building collapse. It folds down on itself like a house of cards. Clouds of dust billow

out and rubble scatters everywhere. Before too long the school is nothing but a ruin.

Oh my god! expresses Sara.

No way! mumbles Jack.That was cool! shouts Kitty.The dog just barks its approval.

As they continue to watch as the dust settles, something catches their eyes withinthe ruins of the building itself.

They all begin to strain their eyes, trying to make out the movements theyre seeing.What the hell..? says Jack.

Is that..? Sara mutters.Its children! announces Kitty.

Within the bowels of the ruined school now stands over 100 children. All dressed indifferent school uniforms from different eras in time.

Kitty looks up to her mother and Jack, Its the children Billys kept for their fear allthese years! Kitty beams. Weve saved them all!

Then one of the children begins to run out of the ruins.

Kitty recognises her instantly and runs towards her, meeting her halfway.

Kitty and Jessica embrace in a huge hug of friendship.

Jack and Sara walk up behind them. Kitty looks up at them.

I see youve found your friend, says Sara. Jessica, I think wed better get you

home to your mum, shes worried.Thank you, Miss Bava, smiles Jessica.

The dog wanders over beside Kitty and begins licking her hand again.

Looks like youve gained another friend tonight too, Princess. Laughs Jack as he

nods down at the dog.

If you want to keep him, youd better think of a name for him. Adds Sara.

Can I really? asks Kitty excitedly.

Of course! He saved us! replies Sara. So, give him a name.

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Kitty looks at the black dog and creases her forehead in deep thought. She noticessome singe marks on the dogs coat from when he attacked Billy, causing some of his

fur to burn.The name then pops into her head.

Hotdog Doggy! exclaims Kitty.

Sara and Jack laugh.

Brilliant. Says Jack.

Very thoughtful. Replies Sara.

Kitty grins and says, I think its time for a group hug.They all join in a small circle and put their arms round each other, none of them say a

word. Even Hotdog Doggy jumps up on his hind legs to get involved in the huddle.

As they break the hold, Jack says, Right, I really think its time to go home, do we

all agree.

Everyone nods in agreement.

Then Kitty turns her head back to the ruins of the school and looks at all the otherchildren standing around wandering what to do and where to go.What about them? asks Kitty.

Before her question can be answered, the sound of a police siren can be heard in thedistance, getting closer.

Hear that? asks Jack.Kitty nods.

Its their job to help them now. says Jack. I think weve done enough for one night,dont you?

Again, Kitty nods.Beside, says Jack, Im starving!

Kitty laughs, Hey, I know what you need!You do? enquires Jack.

Three letters, replies Kitty, with a smirk on her face.

Sara bursts out laughing.

THE END

Kitty, Sara, Jack and Hotdog Doggy will return in

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KITTY

VS

THE FOREST OF THE DEAD.

kitty vs the boiler room monster

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