The Parchment

James turned to the parchment. The small amount of air it stirred up caused the paper to spring up coiling in a tight roll. He firmly fitted the letter in his hand. He then noticed a ringlet intention. Something had held the paper coiled.

The squirrel still chatted and barked in the corner. James stared at the tiny critter.

“So, what do you know about all of this?” He asked.

Bernice stopped and sit down. The boy placed the yellowed parchment on the corner of the bed. Moving slowly he stepped her way. He eased his hands in his pockets and took another step. In his pocket he found a couple of peanut M&M’s. He offered it to the squirrel. To his shock she gently took the yummy treat, thrilling he thought. She tucked it in her cheeks, ran to grab the ancient document and with it in hand (well paw) escaped into the closet.

James yelled after her, “don’t take that! Stupid old squirrel,” the boy said.

His new friend Dash jumped on the closet wall barking after the squirrel. As James caught a glimpse of his parents he returned to their side. “what should I do? “ he asked his sleeping father. “I’m scared,” he told his sleeping mother. Neither of them moved.

At first it looked like they were holding hands. However, on closer exam he could see they each held part of a silver ring. The ring was not crested with a jewel, but with a seal. That looked like a thumb print. James tried to pull the ring free put it too was partly encased in ice. The boy used his phone to take a picture of the item.

The sun would be rising soon and he needed a plan. He was certain this was not a 911 matter. He turned to leave as Dash leaped on the bed and breathed on the ring. Soon the ring fell free.

James rushed to the bed snatched up the item and placed it on his finger for safe keeping. He expected the item to be cold. However, it pulsed warmth and lead him to the attic.

Reviews

[Lorry]

Dumb squirrel! They're always running off with possible treasure maps and... Ooh, sorry... Became six again there for a minute! 😊
Now I'm thinking it must be a bravery ring, because it would have to be to have led kid me into an attic! That's where old stuff and spiders webs live, yeuck! 😊

[Coyote Poetry]

I am loving the story dear Cherrie. The feel of real life, honest thoughts and hope. Thank you for sharing the amazing chapter.
Coyote

[Cherrie]

I'm glad it has a tangible feel. I think that is so important. I wish I was better at it.

[lightsong]

"A 911 matter" lol You made me laugh dear Cherrie I wonder what they will say if James had ever decided to call them. that would make another "story" from You :>. now a fairytale wouldn't be complete without some frisky female, Bernice the Squirrel ;>

[KAREN]

The mystery deepens! This keeps the reader wanting more!

[KATHY SUE SILLS]

Your story has been great! Can't wait to read more! Enjoying!