Shadows in the Woods. When fear becomes reality. Alexander Skopintsev

his workout, Joseph headed for the shower. The cool water washed away the fatigue, but couldn’t wash away the heaviness of the memories. After leaving the bathroom, he stopped in front of the mirror, staring at his reflection. His eyes betrayed a sleepless night and the weight of the past.

      Walking down the hallway, Joe stared at the pictures hanging on the walls. Here were he and Mark, just boys, smiling for the camera. And here were their parents, happy and full of life. These pictures were all that was left of their old life.

      Joseph sighed, remembering how he had to grow up overnight when his parents died in a car accident. He had been just over twenty and Mark had barely turned sixteen. Since that day, Joe had been both father, mother, and best friend to his brother.

      Joseph’s musings were interrupted by the doorbell. On the doorstep stood his friend Alex.

      – Hello, Joe. How are you? – Alex asked, looking at his friend carefully.

      – Hello, Alex. Come in, – Joseph let his friend into the apartment.

      They went to the kitchen, where Joe started making coffee. Alex sat down at the table, watching his friend’s movements.

      – So, is today the day? – Alex asked cautiously. – Will you look at Mark’s pictures?

      Joseph froze for a moment, then slowly turned to his friend:

      – I’m glad the stuff was returned. But… I’m not ready yet.

      Alex nodded:

      – You know, Joe, I’ve noticed you’ve become calmer. You seem to be doing better than you were a year ago.

      Joseph sat down across from his friend, wrapping his hands around his coffee cup:

      – Maybe. But it’s not getting any easier.

      – Look, Joe,“ Alex leaned forward, „you couldn’t have been there, no matter what happened. You can’t blame yourself forever. Mark was always an adventurer, it was impossible to keep him away.

      Joseph raised his eyes to his friend:

      – What do you think happened there, in the woods?