Snippet #2459635

“Engineering, huh? Sounds pretty intense, I don’t blame you.” Skylar did well enough in school but science was definitely not her forte. She didn’t know how her brother had survived med school (oh wait, yes she did- he was the one lucky enough to get the brains in the family).

She couldn’t help but grin at his definition of a communications major, shaking her head. “In a way, I guess so. I take a lot of public speaking and writing classes. Ultimately I want to work in public relations for a company- so basically covering the company’s ass whenever something scandalous happens and keeping the customers happy.”

Before she could open her mouth to answer his next question there was a startling crack followed by a loud crashing noise as the tree across the path fell. Startled, a soft yelp escaping her throat, as she tried not to fall off the bench.

“You know, it was great talking to you but I think I’m going to go.” Skylar said, shoving her book into her messenger bag. Trees didn’t just suddenly fall over and she wasn’t about to stick around in case it happened again.

As she stood up to leave she saw something that made her stop dead in her tracks- a black skeletal hand slowly emerging from the spot where the tree had once stood.

“Please tell me you see that too.” She whispered, unable to move or even drag her eyes away from the sight. It was at that moment that she felt a burning sensation coming from her neck, the pain sudden and stinging. Her hand flew to her neck to find the source of the pain, fingers recoiling as they brushed against the silver pendant her parents had given to her for her Sweet 16. “What’s happening?”