The House on Magnolia Lane Desiree Barte

The classroom is filled with energetic students impatiently waiting for the last bell to ring. They
look at the clock above the teachers desk. Their faces resemble close to that of starving dogs
with a large juicy steak dangling in front of them. One of those faces belongs to Michael
Anderson. Although his face isnt the most eager of his peers, you can still see a sparkle in his
green eyes as the clock ticks closer to 2:30. In the back of the room, there is the chatter of those
sharing their weekend plans. Then in a quick second, Michaels intense concentration on the
clock was broken by an argument in the back rows of desks. He couldnt make out what they
were saying, but he felt that it must have been something super important.
Alright class. Settle down. the teachers voice bellowed. Everyones eyes quickly went to the
teachers desk and everything went silent. Despite the Mr. Quinns small and almost fragile
stature, his voice can really pack a punch. Michael and his friends once discussed during lunch
that one day, if someone made him raise his voice a bit higher, he might crack and break into
little pieces.
Continuing on, Mr. Quinn made an announcement. So, I hope you are happy to know that there
wont be any homework assigned for this weekend. But, just know we have a quiz sometime
next week. I havent chosen a date yet so it will be a surprise for all of us. Just as he finished the
expressions on the students faces became worry and heartbreak. Suddenly, the thing they were
waiting for finally arrived as a loud ring echoed the room calling for the end of the day. Class is
now dismissed. Have a wonderful weekend. His face held a smile, and it was definitely
genuine. Students didnt know whether or not to fear it or not. But, Michael sure did.
Slowly, the room emptied. Friends left together trying to cheer each other up. Soon, all that was
left in the room was Michael at his desk. His held his head in his hands, and muttered to himself,
No no no. A quiz next week? I cant do it, I cant. Please, no. Ive already failed the last one. I
even studied for it. B-but, now I dont know anything about it. How can I..? I cant- In his panic
he feels a hand on his shoulder and then a brisk and uncomfortable tone of voice speaks in his
ear.
Heeeello, there Mr. Anderson. Michael looked up to see who it was, and there was Janet
Erwin. A girl only an inch shorter than he is, wearing a blue overall dress and her hair tied up in
a neat bun by her mom that morning held together with a green ribbon. In her hand she holds a
pink pencil with the fluffy feather end up to his face.
Get that thing away from me, Janet! Michael exclaimed. What do you want from me now?
Do you have any new gossip you want to share with me? If you do, dont bother. I dont care.
Hmph. she puffs her cheeks and asks, Whats the matter Mr. Anderson? I havent seen you
that upset since you failed that quiz a couple weeks ago. Cmon, I promise I wont tell anyone if
you dont want me to. He knew she was the kind of person who wouldn't be able to keep a
secret, especially if it were juicy one. Then everyone, even parents, would end up finding out one
way or another. But, if it's a promise, she will keep her word. No matter what.
Michael breaks his attention to her and stared back to his desk. Janet sits down in the one next to
his and says, Another one? Wow, I bet Mr. Quinn has a thing out for his students. I hear those
test he gives are like a form of torture. Glad Im not in your class.
Looking back up to her, he replies sarcastically, Wow, thanks for rubbing that in, it makes me
feel a whole lot better.
You are welcome Mr. Anderson. she says back to him in the same tone smiling.
So, what did you want from me?
What? A pal cant just pick up another pal from class to walk home together with and nothing
else?
He raises a brow in response. Were not friends? I know you know that.
Alright, fine. You caught me." She raises her hands up to her chest. "But, there is something. I
wanted to talk you about it as we walked together. We should go now too. Mr. Quinn has been
waiting for us to leave for a while now.
Michael looks over to the front of the class and the teacher meets his gaze and taps on the watch
on his wrist. Spending a couple extra seconds, his eyes find the clock on the wall and sees that
its already 2:43. Oops.

Outside, the sun is well up into the sky and is vaguely sprinkled with clouds. Along the
flowering sidewalk, Michael and Janet walk together. Janet skips and hums with each step,
whereas Michael holds his arms crossed on his chest a couple steps behind her feeling
uncomfortable. He stops walking and breaks the silence. Janet, come on what did you need to
tell me? Its been a while since we left the school. What was so important? She stops moving
down the sidewalk, and takes a couple steps back to Michael.
Oh dear. My bad I was just enjoying my walk with you so much I forgot. Not really. But, it
really did slip my mind. Anyways, I found something out recently that is very interesting. Very.
Well, what is it?
Its about a house.The old one that was abandoned over ten years ago on Magnolia Lane. I just
so happen to overhear some guys talking about it during lunch a while ago. Apparently, they
were playing baseball in the street and they were stupid enough break a window with their ball.
One of them tried to retrieve it, but while doing so, heard something.
Michael looked at Janet waiting for her to continue. He heard something that seemed like it was
a group of little kids singing. Said it was really creepy too but couldn't make out the words.
Being the scaredy cat he is, left the ball there. I doubt he was going to get it back anyways.
Wow. Thats really weird. He scratches the back of his messy, red hair. But, what about it?
I want to experience it for myself. Thats what! And I want you to accompany me.
Why me though? He felt shocked and worried. Breaking into a house? That has to be illegal,
he thought. Even if it hasnt been touched in years, who knows whatll happen?
Because, I hear you like going on adventures and this should be put under that category. And,
from what I hear, you're not a scaredy cat. Well, at least not as bad. So, what do you think? Are
you going to join me Mr. Anderson?
Give me some time to think about it. I think its kind of risky.
Well if you need more information, here is how you can contact me. She quickly digs into her
backpack, pulls out a light pink card and hands it over to Michael. In his hands he sees that it
lists her home address, phone number, and email address. All the words look like they were
written in gold. Her name at the top is imprinted in a fancy font that curls at the ends. Well,
thats what he thought. It was kind of hard to tell.
Wow, how many of these things do you have on you?
Just enough. You dont need to worry about it. Michael though it was odd that Janet carried
these contact cards. Especially since they were only in middle school.
Um, alright then. After those words were spoken, the two again walked together quietly before
parting ways.

Hey mom! Im home! Michael called out once he opened the door to his house.
The first response back to him wasnt his mother, but Kevin. His pet corgi runs out of one of the
rooms towards the doorway with his tail wagging excessively. Michael knelt down to pet him,
and Kevin affectionately licked him on the face. Aww, youre just the cutest dog Kevin. He
hugs the dogs small fluffy body in his arms
Oh, Michael! Its that you in the hall? Michaels mom called out from the kitchen.
Yeah mom its me! I just got back from school.
How was your day?
Trying to avoid telling her about the upcoming quiz he just says, It was good mom! Yeah,
there is no way shell find out he thought.
Do you have any homework to do this weekend?
He hesitated, and lied. No mom, I dont have any.
Good, good. Maybe you, your father, your sister and I could go out this weekend. That would
be nice right?
Yeah, mom. he said. By the way, Im gonna go upstairs to my room. With Kevin still in his
arms he picks him up and walks over to the staircase.
Passing by the kitchen he sees his mother. Shes struggling to cook something by the stove. Her
hair is pulled up into a ponytail - a messy one at that. The counters around her are a mess, and he
notices the sweat forming on her forehead. He can tell shes frustrated. She isnt the best cook,
no matter how hard she tries to improve. Hes knows what it feels like, hes been there. Under
his breath as he takes his first step up the stairs he whispers, Its OK, mom.

At the top of the staircase, Michael faces a golden yellow hallway with walls littered with
photos. They were from past trips and birthdays and other special occasions. The trips to the
Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, and the California Redwoods, his sisters second birthday, a
photo from his parents wedding from a million years ago, the day when they adopted Kevin, and
the last time Michael got an award in school (not in academics, theyre not his strong point). His
parents loved to take photos. They capture the moment and one day youll have something to
reminisce about once youre old like me or your father, his mother would say.
His room was the second door to the right. He put Kevin on the floor and he opened the door.
Kevin runs in and jumps on his bed. The blinds by his desk are open from when he woke up that
morning. His room is painted in a blue-green, with posters hanging on the walls from video
games, but other than that theyre pretty empty. Michael drops his backpack by the corner of his
bed and sits down at his desk. Like the rest of his room, its clean. Pencils and pens in a cup, his
laptop, some figurines, a stack of paper (white, lined and graphed as his dad always tells him to
be prepared), and some books sit there.
He opens the screen to his laptop and turns it on. While he waits to log in, he calls Kevin and
pats his hands on his lap. Kevin looks up from the bed and jumps off going over to his owner.
Michael lowers his chair so Kevin could jump on him and make himself comfortable. He raises
the chair back up and types in his password. (Hint: Its Michaelisawesome2k14)
Opening up the internet, he gets some messages from his friends. They tell him that theyre video
chatting each other and if he wants he can join.

Hey Mikey how ya doin pal! On Michaels screen there are is three friends: Jordan, Ryan, and
Lucas. Sooo, sorry for leaving you in the classroom earlier. We tried to snap you out of your
probable shock about you-know-what, we really did! But, we really wanted to get out of there.
Mr. Quinn was giving us a really off-putting look waiting for us.
Michael sighs before replying. Its fine. Really Ryan. But, thanks for trying at least.
Oh hey! Thats right! When we were leaving the room I saw that Janet girl by the door,
exclaimed Lucas. He had blond hair that hit his chin and mole under his right eye. He was sitting
in front of a window, and the light coming from behind him had him look like a shadow on
screen. What was she there for? Like, did she want something from you?
Janet? Isnt she that loner who spreads rumors all the time? It cant be good if its coming from
her. voiced Jordan before taking a bite of a sandwich. Michael could tell he was sitting on his
bed from the pillows behind him.
Well, theyre not rumors if theyre true and so far everything thats come out of her has been
true. corrected Ryan. He wore round glasses and very short brown hair that hid beneath his
green beanie.
Shut up, Jordan yelled back.
Well, she wants me to visit this house with her, said Michael.
What? That seems boring, Lucas said yawning. Is there a catch?
She said its that house on Magnolia Lane. Apparently its been abandoned for a long time now
and she heard that creepy voices are coming from that house.
Isnt that street full of old people? said Ryan.
Ha, sucks for you. Are you going to go? said Jordan.
Im not sure What do you guys think? he replied nervously.
I think you should go Bro. Youve always wanted to do something rad, and this seems like a
start right? said Lucas.
I guess so. But I always imagined something more like scuba diving or visiting the amazon.
Like what we get arrested for trespassing or something? My dad will not be happy about picking
me up from jail.
But, thats the thrill of it Mikey. That is the thrill. Lucas replied back.
Well, Michael said. She did give me a way to contact her. Quickly grabbed his backpack and
pulled out her contact card. The three boys on his screen were surprised. It was probably because
their nervous little man had a number to a girl.
She has those? questioned Ryan. Why?
I asked her that same thing but she told me to not worry about it.
That seems pretty shady. said Jordan
Are you going to try calling her or something? asked Ryan.
Probably. I might tell her that I wont go though.
Laaaame! called Lucas.
Hey, after your call get back to us on that alright Mikey? We wanna know whats going to
happen and well be here. I was actually planning on having us watch a movie over video chat.
said Ryan
What? Youre watching a movie without me?
Dont worry pal, its just Bee Movie. said Jordan. When you come back and the movie is
finished well watch something more to your liking. Cool?
Eugh, Bee Movie? Yeah, I think Ill be fine. Thanks guys, Ill be back in a while.

Before leaving the chat, his friends waved and said See ya as per tradition. Kevin was fast
asleep on Michaels lap. He closed his computer screen and grabbed his phone from his bag. It
was small and it wasnt too flashy. An old flip phone that his parents got him a couple years
back. Everyone else had their fancy smart phones that they could use the internet on and take
photos with. Michael couldnt do either of that, but he didnt really use it for much anyways. He
can hear the echo of his dads voice saying, Only for emergencies! Nothing else. You might
regret it one day when youre stranded and need to call us and you cant.
In one hand he has the light pink card Janet gave him not too long ago and his phone in the other.
He carefully types out her number and presses call. He brings the phone to his ear and hears the
repetitive beeps as he waits for her to pick up. It wasnt as long for Janet to pick up.
Hello who is this?
Uhh, Janet. Its me Michael.
Oh! Mr. Anderson. I was waiting for you to get back to me. So what do you think? Will you go
with me?
To be honest I dont think Ill be going. Sorry.
Oh, poo. When I just managed to get more information of the abandoned house Well, its a
shame, but I dont know how I would ever be able to get over this.
You got information? Its only been like three or two hours since you told me this.
Mr. Anderson, when I hear something interesting I act fast and get whatever additional
information I need. I am a professional at what I do.
Alright, so what did you learn?
I thought you werent interested in joining me in my little escapade Mr. Anderson?
Im not, but it doesnt mean Im not curious.
Thats all I need to hear. Although he couldnt see her, Michael could just imagine Mr.
Quinns smile when he announces his good news itching across Janets face.
So, whatcha got?
Well, I asked my parents about that house and I called up my sister. I mean they have to know
something about it. My family has lived here for, like, forever! We should know about everyone
and everything. But, theyre older than me so they would obliviously know more than I. Janet
loved to share that fact with anyone when she had the chance. It didnt matter if they heard it
dozens of times, if they werent interested, or if they already knew, shed tell them again.
Continuing on, From what Ive gathered, the home belonged to this woman named Mrs.
Caroline Laurent, her husband Mr. Roland Laurent and their two children who immigrated over
from Europe sometime before the 50s. I was unable to find their childrens names were or
anything really. But, they basically ran away from home when they were young. Not as young as
us, but still pretty young. It must have been hurt a lot for the both of them to have their children
leave home so early. Especially without ever coming back to visit.
From then on the Laurents became hermits. They didnt leave their home to socialize with
anyone. They only went out to tend to their front yard garden or to get groceries. At least they
would have each other to keep each other company right? But, alas, years before the home was
known to be abandoned Mr. Roland Laurent passed away. Mrs. Laurent was left in the home
alone. He children and husband no longer there with her. It really sucks.
She never left her home after that. Well, as far as anyone knows anyway. The house had been
quiet since, and people have assumed she must have moved out or something. But, with what I
found out from listening on to those scaredy cats, that is not the case anymore! Singing voices of
children coming from the house is really odd based on all this information.
Is that all? questioned Michael. Janets information made him feel even more unwilling to go
with her. Despite his fear growing inside of him, so did his curiosity of the house.
Yes, that is all Mr. Anderson. So, what do you think now.
Well, Im scared of going. In his ear, he could quietly make out a sigh from Janet. She was
disappointed in what she heard. He was sure, because he has felt the same way about himself
before and in that movie his friends were watching right now. Im scared, but I am curious to
find out more about this house.
Her voice just lit up, You are!?
Yes, I am, he replied reassuringly. So, when is this going to happen?
I was thinking tomorrow at afternoon around one o clock. I dont know if there is much to plan
out to be honest.
Hmmm, I think itll work. I was planning on walking my dog tomorrow anyways, so I dont
think my parents would be too worried if Im out for a while.
OOOH, you have a dog? Whats the little guys name Mr. Anderson?
His name is Kevin, a corgi and hes currently resting comfortably in my lap. Michael's other
hand is sitting on Kevins soft fur. He could feel his warmth and heartbeat against his own flesh.
Kevin moves a bit as if he was to awaken, but he doesnt and Michael starts to stroke his fur.
That is adorable. I am glad to be able to meet him tomorrow.
From outside the window Michael hears a car go up the driveway and park. When the alarm to
the vehicle is sounded, he looks out the window. Kevin shoots up from his lap and runs out the
room. Michael sees a man in a button up shirt, red tie, and glasses holding a leather briefcase
opening up the door. Michael! Your father is home, his mom calls from downstairs. Come
downstairs and help me set up the table!
Before calling back to her he quickly tells Jane, One oclock, Magnolia lane, tomorrow. Ok. See
ya. Bye, and hangs up. Calling out the door he says, Alright mom, Im coming!

Hey, Kevin. Do you want to go on a walk with me? Huh? Do you boy? Michael is in the
hallway upstairs. Lunch is over and its a little under thirty minutes until he is to meet with Janet.
He holds his dogs face in his hands. I know you do buddy. He grabs his leash from the hanger
in his room and clips it on to his collar.
Mom! Im going out to walk Kevin. Ill be back in a while!
Alright, make sure you remember to bring your phone and that its fully charged!
I will! Michael digs into his pants pockets and they are both empty. Wait a minute for me
alright Kevin? He quickly checks his desk and his phone is sitting there as it was before going
to eat dinner. He flips it open and sees that its still on. Only sixty percent huh? I should
probably turn it off so the battery doesnt drain. After turning it off, he shoves the ancient
artifact of a phone into his pocket and goes back into the hall to grab Kevin.

Michael is wearing a red baseball cap and a short sleeve button up shirt. The day was like
yesterday, sunny and basically cloudless. Spring is what brings back life after winter, his mom
would say. Shes right. The flowers on his neighbors yards seemed brighter and the trees are
starting to grow from their barren, skeletal branches.
Kevin made his occasional stops to mark his territory on trees, bushes and lawns as they walked
together. At one of the many stops Michael just started talking to himself, Hmm, so its
Magnolia Lane right? Lucas said it shouldnt be too far from my house. You know Kevin, if I
had a new phone and everything I could just google the directions. I really wish I printed a map
or something for myself before going to bed last night. I think Im going to end up making Janet
wait for us for a bit. After doing his business, Kevin looks up to Michael and they keep
walking.

Where is that fool, Mr. Anderson? Janet looks at the time on her phone. Hes ten minutes late.
Whats the hold up? Oh, I hope he wrote the directions or something so he wont get lost.
Hmph She is wearing basically the same things as she did yesterday, only with slight
variation. A pair of pink overalls instead of blue ones and her hair is kept up in a strawberry
patterned ribbon instead of green.
She looks down both ends of the street. No sign of the messy haired boy and his dog. All she
sees are a couple elderly people resting in their lawns or gardening. A pair chats with each other
at their mail boxes. They seem rather happy. It would be cute if they were all neighbors since
they moved in. Decades of building friendships, thought Janet. She goes back to her phone and
tries to message Michael. She cant. Apparently he cant be reached right now. Mustve turned
his phone off.
Janet turns to the house behind her. Its the one she heard of when overhearing the conversation
between those scaredy cats that last time. It wasnt hard to pick out from the rest of the homes on
the street. A house thats been abandoned for years out of the rest that has been given good care?
It isnt that hard. But, like the rest, its an old Victorian styled home. The light blue paint is
faded, and peeling off the walls of the one floor structure. The windows are foggy and are
difficult to see through. The house is surrounded by a rusted black fence with an arch leading to
the front door. The front lawn is overgrown with tall dead grass with a patch of old soil where a
garden probably used to be. Then from behind she feels the soft touch of a hand on her shoulder
and she visibly jumps
Uhhh, Janet? Sorry Im late. She looks to see who it is and its Michael. Kevin looks up to
Janet with a smiling face and a wagging tail. Is something wrong?
Goodness gracious Mr. Anderson! You couldve killed me!
Oops, sorry. Oh right, Janet this is my dog Kevin, he pointed at him and Janet went down to
pet him, How long have you been waiting for me?
Quite a bit actually. But, dont worry about it. She focused her attention to the corgi. He was
now on his back she was petting his stomach.
Ok, cool. So, I guess we should try to find a way in right? Do we try knocking on the door or
try to climb in a window?
Trying the door is a silly idea. We can try to find that broken window that those scaredy cats
made with their baseball. She got up and started to walk up the path and then started to examine
the windows. She turned back and called over to Michael, Come over here and help me.
Michael did as he said and pulled on Kevins leash to pull him over. Janet was looking at the left
side of the house while he looked at the windows on the right. He eventually found the broken
window, Hey, Janet! I found it, he called just loud enough so she could hear and she ran over.
The both of them looked through into the room. They saw the baseball in the middle in the room
with shards of glass around it. The walls of the room were covered with a simple floral pattern,
and like the paint outside the house was peeling and it was torn in some parts. There were photos
on the wall and a desk, some chairs and a wide bookshelf. Right across from them was a doll.
Michael, can you try to open up the window so we can get in?
Sure. He reached in and found the handle. He lifted it up and pushed the window up from the
outside. Im going to try to climb in. When he was in, he asked Janet, Could you bring Kevin
up for me? Janet did as asked and then she got herself up.
Dusting off her dress Janet makes a remark of the room, Hmm, this is interesting. I wonder why
there are flower petals scattered everywhere. Beneath them is a wooden floor and, as she said,
flower petals. They seem to come from a variety of flowers: daisies, roses, cosmos, azaleas, and
some magnolias. None of them were dried out, as if they were recently placed there. There isnt
much dust here either. Hey, Mr. Anderson?
Michael was looking at the photos on the wall; he was carrying Kevin in his arms who was tired
from the walk. It was like being in the hallway outside his room the wall was covered with
them. There were several copies of the same photos. There were many photos of an old man and
woman, and photos of a younger couple. The Laurents assumed Michael. They were shown
doing normal things. Reading, cooking, gardening, and a lot of them were of them sitting down
next to each other. It reminded Michael of the movie Up a bit.
Mr. Anderson? she called again. She walked over to his side and looked at the photos with
him. He didnt fully notice she was there. Hey there are some photos of kids on the wall along
with the ones of the Laurents. I guess these were their kids. She pointed over to a pair of kids
sitting on a bench, they both had short hair. They both were wearing dresses sisters. See, there
is a photo with the four of them together. Unlike the photos of the old couple, there werent that
many up.
Janet? There are photos of other kids on the wall.
Are they of their daughters? I thought I already found all of them though
No, no. They arent of the sisters. There are photos of a bunch of random kids. See? He
pointed out the photos on the wall. There were some of boys and others of girls, none looked at
all similar to the Laurent Sisters. Michael and Janet were able to point out eight different kids out
of a dozen copies on the wall.
Uhh, that is uncomfortable.
Do you remember hearing if the Laurents had any family members in your research? They
could be nieces or nephews or something less weird.
She shook her head, No, not at all Mr. Anderson. It was known that they only had each other in
the country. They came to America alone. The rest of them should be somewhere in Europe.
Yeah, ok. That is uncomfortable. Michael was looking at Janet. Behind her was the door to the
rest of the house, and by that door was a doll. It looked like it was staring right back with him
with light brown eyes that somehow felt alive. No, wait. Scratch that. That is uncomfortable.
He pointed over to it for Janet to see.
Please. Its just a doll. I think its cute.
Thats probably because youre a girl.
There is no need to bring in stereotypes into this Mr. Anderson. Its rude. But, I will admit that I
do like dolls. She walked over to it and started to stoke its hair. Oooh, this seems to be well
made. Its like one of those expensive porcelain dolls. She picks it up to examine it further.
If its expensive, put it down. You might break it, and that would be pretty rude even if they
arent here anymore. Even breaking in
Fine. Im putting it down Mr. Anderson. Cmon, dont be so peeved. Its not damaged. You can
check if you dont trust me.
I wont. And believe me; even though Im here with you it doesnt mean I fully trust you.
Ow hurt. Im just kidding I get that a lot, she smiled and looked over to the door, Lets go to
the next room shall we?

Outside the room Michael puts Kevin back on the ground as his arms arent strong enough to
carry him for long. Still hanging on to his leash, he crouches down and tells him, Dont eat
anything you find here. Its going to be gross and I dont want you to get sick and go to the vet.
Not again. Alright? For a second Kevins face was in horror in hearing the word vet. He
looked back up at his owner telling him he understood.
Michael and Janet looked through the rest of the house. There wasnt much of a difference than
the first room they were in. Each room was filled with old furniture and fresh flower petals. Each
also had a strangely realistic doll sitting somewhere in the room and more photos on the walls
included the Laurent family, and more random children. Out of the multiple copies of photos on
all the walls Janet was able to total the number up to twenty.
Whats up with the photos of random kids in this place? Its really getting to me now, said
Janet.
It didnt bother you when we saw the first eight photos of kids?
Of course it did. Every time we see another photo I just want to leave. But, I came here hoping
to find something. Anything about those voices those guys heard.
Janet, since we came in here we havent heard anything but ourselves. What if it were just in
their heads?
Then I might just be the fool of fools, Mr. Anderson.
Cmon we all make mistakes right? We just have to try to accept it and move on.
I guess so. But, now it isnt just about the voices. There has to be something important behind
all these photos. What if theyre related Mr. Anderson?
I dont know. The chances they are only happen in books or movies.
Dont be such a buzzkill Mr. Anderson. It seems like we looked through most of the rooms thus
far. Did we miss anything?
I dont think so Michael stopped to think. Wait! I remember this one door I came across
with Kevin when you were still looking though the living room.
Really? But, how come you didnt tell me? Actually, how did I not notice it?
The door was locked, so without finding a way to open it I thought it would be useless.
Mr. Andrews. All these rooms have been useless in finding answers. All I am getting is
questions and I bet you can agree with me on this. Why are there dolls in every room? why are
there so many photos on the wall of random kids? why are there flower petals everywhere? and
what happened to Caroline Laurent! Janet covered her face. Michael tried to see if she was
alright. But, as he did she put her hands back down to her sides. In her face he can see a hint of
anger. Although for the most part, she just looked tired. Really tired.
Janet. Im sorry. Michael tried to apologize. He felt bad. He never liked having people getting
upset. Even if its a person he doesnt care much for.
No, Janet said. She yawned and covered her mouth. Im sorry about that. Its unbecoming of
someone wanting to become a professional. Lets look at that door shall we?
Michael walked Janet over to the locked door. She tried to open it up hoping the age of the door
would be just weak enough to open it up with sheer will. But, it didnt work. She tried kick it
down and it didnt work. After that she gave up.
Alright. That didnt work, she said.
Yeah I saw. Are you alright? You didnt hurt yourself or anything?
No, Im fine. I shouldve known it wouldnt work anyways.
We should go back and look at the other rooms and see if we can find a key. We didnt look
everywhere earlier so doing this should be our best bet.
Alright Mr. Anderson.
The two walked together and went back to the other rooms to take another look around. They
looked through shelves, underneath couches, behind picture frames, and everything else you
could think of. By the end of their search they came across two keys.
Hmm, I wonder which keys going to open the door, said Michael. He held the key up. It was
old and a bit rusty. It was in the same condition as Janets. He managed to find his under the sink
in the kitchen and Janet said she found hers in a book while looking through a book shelf.
Janet shrugged. Would you like to go first Mr. Anderson? Hopefully one of them works.
Are you sure? If you want to try yours first, go ahead.
Dont worry about me. You found yours first. Its only right for you to try before me.
As Michael received confirmation to try his key from Janet, he did as such. He tried to stick the
key in the lock and turn it. The key slipped in and make a click sound. It worked. He opened up
the door and looked in. It was just an empty, dirty basement. There was nothing in there at all.
Thats odd, said Michael.
Janet tried to look in from behind Michael. Huh? What is it Mr. Anderson is there anything in
there?
He turned back and looked at her. No, there isnt. Thats whats so weird. Every room we
looked though had the same things in it. A doll, photos and flower petals. He started to walk out
of the room and Janet went in to take a look. After a minute she walked back out.
Thats disappointing. I wonder why there isnt anything there, said Janet. Even more
disappointment.
She mightve had difficulty going down there. My grandma had the same problem, couldnt go
walk upstairs to her room anymore. Or she mightve never had any use for it?
I think we should go. I dont think there is any point of looking around anymore. Im sorry for
this waste of time, said Janet. Right when she finished speaking, the door to the basement shut
closed and the key she found flew into the lock and it reopened.
What the? the both of them looked through the newly reopened door. It no longer led down
to an empty basement anymore. It was now a long dark path, and in the distance they could see
something glow.
Ahem Ladies first, said Michael.
Janet stepped into the door. Michael followed behind her, and following behind him was Kevin.
When they were all in the door shut closed again. It was difficult to see, so Janet brought out her
phone for light. She brought light where the door was and it was no longer there. There was only
a wall in front of them.
Shoot, she sighed. Come on Mr. Anderson, lets go. She turned around and continued to
walk down the path.
Michael picked up Kevin from the ground again. He was scared, and the only thing he had for
comfort was his fluffy little corgi. He followed behind Janet until they came to a stop. They were
in front of another door, with a lamp right above it. On the floor beneath them, there were flower
petals again, and they seemed to continue underneath the door. Janet opened up the door and
they continued through.
This path was longer than the other. With the light coming from Janets phone, they could see
the walls were covered with photos. This time, none of the photos were of any of the Laurents
and there were none of random children. They were all of dolls. The two of them noticed some
of the dolls they came across in the rooms in the main part of the house. As they walked
together, they were stared down by dead eyes of more than two dozen dolls. When they were
getting close to the end of the pathway, Michael heard something
Janet? Michael was worried. Uhm, Janet! She didnt turn around.
I think I heard something. He grabbed her by the shoulder and told her to listen. Before she
was able to yell at him, he brought a finger to her lips. Shhhhlisten.
The both of them did. They heard the quiet rumble of voices. It was like what the scaredy cats
said when Janet overheard their conversation. As they continued to listed, the voices grew louder
and louder. But, they couldnt make out the words. Then the walls around them started to shake,
and the framed photos of the dolls fell to the ground one by one shattering. In their shock and
terror, Janet ran. Michael followed up behind her carrying Kevin in his arms. They ran and ran,
and the voices became deafening. The door at the end of the path in front of them looked as if it
were becoming further and further away. Then everything went dark.

Eurghh What happened? Michael lifted his head from the floor. He couldnt see a thing.
Then he felt a warm fluffy body on top of him licking his face.
Kevin is that you? Are you alright? The dog simply lay on top of his lap. Michael sat up
slowly, to not disturb Kevin.
Mr. Anderson, said a voice in the dark.
Janet?
Yeah, its me dont worry, she replied back.
Are you ok?
Yeah. She stayed quiet for a minute. Mr. Anderson? Could you take out your phone? A light
would be wonderful right now.
Oh, sure. Let me take that out. Michael dug into his pockets and took out his phone. He flipped
it open and pressed what he thought was the power button and with a second of waiting, it was
on.
Shoot, Michael exclaimed.
Whats wrong? Janet asked.
Its 5 o clock! My parents have been calling and messaging me for hours. Michael hurriedly
looked through the messages. He attempted to call but, his phone failed on him. No, signal!
Ughh, theyre going to be really angry with me.
Could you shine some light in my direction please, Mr. Anderson? Michael did. Janet was
already up and standing. Her dress and hair was a bit of a mess. She was looking at the door, and
it wasnt too far. The walls around them held nothing. The floor around them was broken frames
and shards of glass. Michael held Kevin in his arms and stood up. Then they walked.

Hey Janet? Michael kept his phone up so they could see where they were going, even if its a
straight path.
Yes? she replied turning his way.
Why were you so interested in coming here in the first place? Like, why find out the source to
the voices those guys said they heard?
To keep talking to him face to face, Janet walked backwards. Well, since youre asking, its
because I want to become a news reporter one day. On television, on the newspaper, or radio. It
doesnt really matter how. Just as long as I share truthful and important information to others Ill
be happy.
What made you want to be a reporter?
My parents. They both work on the town paper and it just really stuck to me. I see all this
unnecessary gossip and stuff on television and it ends up being found more important than actual
news. It really makes me upset. She turned back to the direction of the door, and there it was.
Under the blue light of his phone, Janet turned the handle and pulled it open.

It was a room this time and as they both walked in, Michael closed his phone and put it back into
his pocket. They saw pale colored lights hanging from above the ceiling and at the further end a
chair by some brightly lit lamps. They couldnt see if there was anyone sitting there, it was only
a silhouette as far as they could tell. Looking at the lights, the two were surprised to see they
were jarred fairies. Their faces were pale and ghastly. It was almost like they were starved. As
they walked further towards the light, the jarred fairies grew brighter and brighter. Inside they
were pounding against the glass of their jailhouses. Janet, feeling pity for them went up she tried
to free one of them. But, she was interrupted.
Do not touch them, my darling. The voice was old and frail. It came from the silhouette sitting
in the chair shrouded in light. Please, come over to me. My boy why dont you follow her?
Janet and Michael had no control over their bodies no matter how hard they struggled. They
walked closer and closer to the silhouette. The moment they stopped, they could see that it was
an old woman in the chair. In her lap she had two dolls. They looked eerily similar to the two
kids. Then in a blink of an eye, she was surrounded by the dolls they sighted throughout the
house and more. In a quick count, there were a little over two dozen there.
Are you Mrs. Caroline Laurent? W-what do you want from us? Janet asked as she tried to
break free from her grasp.
Oh my darlings so you know who I am, she smiled. You two are going to be apart of my
lovely collection. Dont worry, Ill take good care of you! She held up the two dolls. Dont
they look just like you? I put a lot of effort in making them look just right. What do you think?
Huh? yelled Michael. Kevin was still in his arms barking at the woman.
Would you like you know why? I feel that its only right. The faces of the two were filled with
confusion. Janets included a mix of determination. It might be too late for her but at least she
will find out that the heck was going on. It was her goal as a future news reporter.
Caroline continued, Back in the day, a long time before you two were born and probably your
parents, my family and I moved here from France. My children were about your age when they
came here. A few years after settling in to our new home, they ran away. I actually dont know
what happened to them, but nonetheless they disappeared. Her face saddened and whispered,
Oh my dear daughters. What happened to you? Didnt you know we loved you?
After they were gone, my husband Roland entered a slow, slow recovery. I felt we were so
close to moving on but, then my husband dies of sickness. We only had each other for so long
Well anYways, she smiled again. It was soft and calming, I locked myself up to the property. I
couldnt bear to go out in life without him. I eventually found these things while working in the
backyard. Rings of mushrooms! Theyre also known as fairy rings, and wouldnt you know I
found many of them. She pointed out to the glowing lights carrying the starving fairies.
After my children went missing, my husband and I crafted dolls. Kind of my own substitute for
them. After he died and I found the fairies, I found that having just dolls wasnt enough. So I
found several children over the years and gave them new bodies. I hope my story was
satisfactory. Now I think its now your turns my darlings. You will be my final additions to my
collection.
She stood up from her seat and walked over to the frozen children. There faces couldnt move
and then everything blacked out again. The last thing they heard was a chorus of singing voices.
They still couldnt make out the words.

Kevin woke up in front of the basement door. It was open and there were a set of stairs down to a
room of nothing. Next to him was his owners phone ringing. Outside it was dark and Kevin
grabbed the phone in his mouth and ran back home.