I stayed huddled under the cold, hard light of the village’s only street lamp for a long time, shivering in fear with my vision blurred.

I must have been screaming, because the upstairs window of the house across the street clattered open and the silhouette of an angry man appeared against the light, with a fist raised in my direction:

– Are you done making that racket?

When he saw that I was alone and that I was only a kid, he calmed down immediately:

– What are you doing here at this time of night, kid?

His voice snapped me out of my trance, and I stood up. I stumbled in the light like a drunk, then backed up, choosing to stay huddled in the shadows.

The good family man was not so easily discouraged:

– Don’t be scared! I only want to help you. Where are your parents, eh? 

I shook my head, silent as the grave. What could I have answered, anyway? I spun on my heels, ordered my numb legs to run, and somehow managed to go back up the dark alley that lead to Aunt Maud’s house.

When I think back to all of this, I can say that I was scared like you will probably never be in your life. I don’t mind going into details, because it’s you, but I must warn you: my story is not made for half-pints or those who still sleep with their teddy bear. Some parts will seriously shake you up. Think about it before you continue reading…

(Go to PART 2)