The Stonewall Inn
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@imnotlyingdown
SHUT IT OFF
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Yeah.
Ash mumbled, like he already knew what she was thinking in some way. He took the bandages, putting one in his jeans pocket, just in case maybe she could still somehow use it, eventually.
Hey, listen, maybe we can go home soon? I’ll be.. closing soon anyway. You can sleep in your room again?
He offered, like he always seemed to when she was upset. Good, the old Ash was still in there. How long would Cheryl be there? What if she disappeared by morning? Suddenly he was a bit afraid to go to sleep, himself.
Cheryl couldn’t get herself together , despite her trying. It sounded easier to crumble to the floor and spend eternity there , it’s not like she would be in the way of anyone. Maybe a visual eyesore to Ash but he should be used to that.
She slowly nodded , hoping they would actually be able to leave this time. No evil knocking down bridges or Ash’s trash heap car stalling. Please.
She caught herself midstep , almost going towards where the room she claimed in the cabin would’ve been. Right , she was somehow in the S-Mart. She didn’t remember coming here , as far as she knew until now , she was attacked maybe five minutes ago. Add it to the pile of blank spaces , she supposed.
Uh.. You can sit in the office chair while I’m lockin’ up. It spins.
Ash was trying to be light about it, maybe trying to be a little better than he was with her before. That came from regret: Deep-set regret that he hadn’t been able to save her.
It’ll be better this time, Cher. Promise.
He managed, as he turned to wander back to his desk. But he glanced back, waiting for her to come with.
Cheryl would be fine with that , in fact maybe a little happy that he remembered she had liked them. She just hoped that she’d be able to sit on it at all.
She didn’t say anything , just sniffled and hicked , but did follow after him. She stared at the floor as if she needed to watch where she walked until she got to the chair , which by some miracle - or through floating - she could indeed use. She balled up immediately , taking a while to muster any will to speak.
Did I kill him..?
He knows who she means.
Ash cringed at the question, as he went to grab the keys with his right hand. Oh. Right, it was missing now. It was just a stub with a mannequin hand over it now. He picked up the keys. He sighed, as he realized he needed to answer it.
No, Cheryl. You didn’t kill him.
That stupid bastard, he thought, his brow furrowed. He shouldn’t have gotten in front of Shelley. It fucked him over, and now he isn’t here. God dammit. He began walking his way to lock the front door, which wasn’t far.
Cheryl had assumed the worst in the brief silence , that she’d killed her closest friend and couldn’t even remember it. Maybe that’s why she hadn’t seen him as a ghost- oh.
Alright…
Now she worried if she’d killed anyone else. It’s probably best not to tell her about Linda. She tried to push off the closest object so the chair would spin , hand went right through , damn it.
Ash stopped when he spotted her try and push herself. Okay. He wandered back over, gently pushing the chair so it would spin with his left hand. It spun a lot more than usual, considering she didn’t really weight anything.
I’ll be right back, alright? I’m jus’ lockin the doors.
Then he went to the front door, turning the lock.
Cheryl nodded , though that was hardly perceivable through her spinning. At least she wouldn’t have to worry about accidentally making herself throw up. She would argue and say she’ll be fine , that she’s not a child but it didn’t feel worth it.
She wiped her tears , somehow being spun did calm her down , at least to a more hideable degree of upset. She picked at the sleeves of “her” shirt while the chair slowed down , she wished she’d put at least one of her necklaces on after she changed.
She’ll mull over what she did remember until he gets back , which wasn’t much. Just the cellar and holding something metal.
Ash came back in only about a minute, as he put the keys back in his pocket. He went and stood next to her chair.
You ready to go, Cher?
He asked, leaning on the table. He had more questions to ask, but he would save them for in the car.
He thought about where everyone else was. Was she the only ghost? Why would she be? He wished Nate was here, at least Nate would make light of the grim situation. He picked up his gun, to take with them.
Despite the short time , Cheryl still jumped out of her skin , if it could still count as that , when he spoke. God , if she could just chill out-
As ever.
She’s trying to sound , maybe feel , normal. She never liked being in this store , it was always too crowded and now not crowded enough. She’s the ghost and yet she’s scared of something else being in here.
She stopped in the middle of getting up , catching sight of the gun. She subconsciously grabbed her shoulder , like it was hurt. It wasn’t , she didn’t think , maybe faintly. She forced herself to blink , she was being crazy ! Just walk behind him , you’re fine.
Ash kept the gun close, like he didn’t trust something to jump out at him. And by god, he was gonna protect her. Nothing could take her away ever again, he promised himself. This time he was going to be a good big brother. The perfect one. The one his dad wanted him to be.
He shook off the thought, of his dad. He really didn’t wanna think about him. He was still living at the house, now. But there were plans to move out soon. He couldn’t stand his father, considering what Brock thinks happened. Would he be able to see Cheryl? He sort of hoped he was in bed by now.
Ash’s eyes shot back to her when she flinched. Her shoulder, that’s where he shot her.. he swallowed.
Alright.. *cmon*.
He took the car keys out of his pocket, ready to unlock his Oldsmobile when they got out the back door. He opened it for her, considering she couldn’t touch anything. Silence.
Cheryl made her arms stay by her side , she didn’t want to look ridiculous. Though , it was a bit too late for that , this stupid shirt was too big on her. She should’ve borrowed something from Linda or Shelly.
Oh dad.. The second she took her mind off… that , he took over her thoughts. She was his favorite , she knew that , Ash and her used to argue over it. He had to have missed her , she missed him. She won’t be able to hug him but she should say something.
She couldn’t say she was excited to have to get back into that car , considering last time’s context. Nor was she excited to have to walk into the dark. Again. She paused before and after walking through the door , looking at everything both times to make sure she wouldn’t suddenly be in the woods again. She looked back to watch Ash walk through , waiting to see if he actually would.
Ash did, in fact, walk through the door. His eyes trailed along the edge of the road outside. Paranoid, careful. Those were things he’d never been before. His gun remained at his side, but his finger on the trigger. Just in case.
He walked out to the car. It was just as beat up as it was before, but now it seemed to be even worse. Scratches from the trees, maybe some deadite blood still left over. Gross. He unlocked the car, opening the door for her to get in. Would she even be able to ride in the car? He hoped so.
He climbed in the driver’s seat, fun set down next to him as he turned on the engine.
We uh.. missed you. Yknow.
He mumbled, like he was saying something that was hard for him to force out. ‘We’.
Cheryl tried to ignore the amount of distrust she had , she had no reason for it. Ash isn’t going to abandon her , she didn’t think he could , really. Not out of brotherly obligation but she’s clearly tied to him somehow.
She walked a little behind him , not fully out of sight , just back enough for it not to feel like an insane man with a gun was marching her to an unmarked van. Maybe she watched too many movies in life.
… This car wasn’t much better than that van. If her anxiety wasn’t spiking every time a pebble skipped a few inches from Ash walking over it , she’d comment on how disgusting it was. This would definitely be one of the times she was glad she couldn’t properly touch something. As with the office chair , she could at least sit in the car. By instinct , she reached for the seatbelt , it took a couple times of her hand passing through the buckle to remember.
Did you ?
It wasn’t meant to be doubtful , maybe a small amount of shock over the fact. She knew dad would’ve missed her , of course.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Yeah.
Ash mumbled, like he already knew what she was thinking in some way. He took the bandages, putting one in his jeans pocket, just in case maybe she could still somehow use it, eventually.
Hey, listen, maybe we can go home soon? I’ll be.. closing soon anyway. You can sleep in your room again?
He offered, like he always seemed to when she was upset. Good, the old Ash was still in there. How long would Cheryl be there? What if she disappeared by morning? Suddenly he was a bit afraid to go to sleep, himself.
Cheryl couldn’t get herself together , despite her trying. It sounded easier to crumble to the floor and spend eternity there , it’s not like she would be in the way of anyone. Maybe a visual eyesore to Ash but he should be used to that.
She slowly nodded , hoping they would actually be able to leave this time. No evil knocking down bridges or Ash’s trash heap car stalling. Please.
She caught herself midstep , almost going towards where the room she claimed in the cabin would’ve been. Right , she was somehow in the S-Mart. She didn’t remember coming here , as far as she knew until now , she was attacked maybe five minutes ago. Add it to the pile of blank spaces , she supposed.
Uh.. You can sit in the office chair while I’m lockin’ up. It spins.
Ash was trying to be light about it, maybe trying to be a little better than he was with her before. That came from regret: Deep-set regret that he hadn’t been able to save her.
It’ll be better this time, Cher. Promise.
He managed, as he turned to wander back to his desk. But he glanced back, waiting for her to come with.
Cheryl would be fine with that , in fact maybe a little happy that he remembered she had liked them. She just hoped that she’d be able to sit on it at all.
She didn’t say anything , just sniffled and hicked , but did follow after him. She stared at the floor as if she needed to watch where she walked until she got to the chair , which by some miracle - or through floating - she could indeed use. She balled up immediately , taking a while to muster any will to speak.
Did I kill him..?
He knows who she means.
Ash cringed at the question, as he went to grab the keys with his right hand. Oh. Right, it was missing now. It was just a stub with a mannequin hand over it now. He picked up the keys. He sighed, as he realized he needed to answer it.
No, Cheryl. You didn’t kill him.
That stupid bastard, he thought, his brow furrowed. He shouldn’t have gotten in front of Shelley. It fucked him over, and now he isn’t here. God dammit. He began walking his way to lock the front door, which wasn’t far.
Cheryl had assumed the worst in the brief silence , that she’d killed her closest friend and couldn’t even remember it. Maybe that’s why she hadn’t seen him as a ghost- oh.
Alright…
Now she worried if she’d killed anyone else. It’s probably best not to tell her about Linda. She tried to push off the closest object so the chair would spin , hand went right through , damn it.
Ash stopped when he spotted her try and push herself. Okay. He wandered back over, gently pushing the chair so it would spin with his left hand. It spun a lot more than usual, considering she didn’t really weight anything.
I’ll be right back, alright? I’m jus’ lockin the doors.
Then he went to the front door, turning the lock.
Cheryl nodded , though that was hardly perceivable through her spinning. At least she wouldn’t have to worry about accidentally making herself throw up. She would argue and say she’ll be fine , that she’s not a child but it didn’t feel worth it.
She wiped her tears , somehow being spun did calm her down , at least to a more hideable degree of upset. She picked at the sleeves of “her” shirt while the chair slowed down , she wished she’d put at least one of her necklaces on after she changed.
She’ll mull over what she did remember until he gets back , which wasn’t much. Just the cellar and holding something metal.
Ash came back in only about a minute, as he put the keys back in his pocket. He went and stood next to her chair.
You ready to go, Cher?
He asked, leaning on the table. He had more questions to ask, but he would save them for in the car.
He thought about where everyone else was. Was she the only ghost? Why would she be? He wished Nate was here, at least Nate would make light of the grim situation. He picked up his gun, to take with them.
Despite the short time , Cheryl still jumped out of her skin , if it could still count as that , when he spoke. God , if she could just chill out-
As ever.
She’s trying to sound , maybe feel , normal. She never liked being in this store , it was always too crowded and now not crowded enough. She’s the ghost and yet she’s scared of something else being in here.
She stopped in the middle of getting up , catching sight of the gun. She subconsciously grabbed her shoulder , like it was hurt. It wasn’t , she didn’t think , maybe faintly. She forced herself to blink , she was being crazy ! Just walk behind him , you’re fine.
Ash kept the gun close, like he didn’t trust something to jump out at him. And by god, he was gonna protect her. Nothing could take her away ever again, he promised himself. This time he was going to be a good big brother. The perfect one. The one his dad wanted him to be.
He shook off the thought, of his dad. He really didn’t wanna think about him. He was still living at the house, now. But there were plans to move out soon. He couldn’t stand his father, considering what Brock thinks happened. Would he be able to see Cheryl? He sort of hoped he was in bed by now.
Ash’s eyes shot back to her when she flinched. Her shoulder, that’s where he shot her.. he swallowed.
Alright.. *cmon*.
He took the car keys out of his pocket, ready to unlock his Oldsmobile when they got out the back door. He opened it for her, considering she couldn’t touch anything. Silence.
Cheryl made her arms stay by her side , she didn’t want to look ridiculous. Though , it was a bit too late for that , this stupid shirt was too big on her. She should’ve borrowed something from Linda or Shelly.
Oh dad.. The second she took her mind off… that , he took over her thoughts. She was his favorite , she knew that , Ash and her used to argue over it. He had to have missed her , she missed him. She won’t be able to hug him but she should say something.
She couldn’t say she was excited to have to get back into that car , considering last time’s context. Nor was she excited to have to walk into the dark. Again. She paused before and after walking through the door , looking at everything both times to make sure she wouldn’t suddenly be in the woods again. She looked back to watch Ash walk through , waiting to see if he actually would.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Yeah.
Ash mumbled, like he already knew what she was thinking in some way. He took the bandages, putting one in his jeans pocket, just in case maybe she could still somehow use it, eventually.
Hey, listen, maybe we can go home soon? I’ll be.. closing soon anyway. You can sleep in your room again?
He offered, like he always seemed to when she was upset. Good, the old Ash was still in there. How long would Cheryl be there? What if she disappeared by morning? Suddenly he was a bit afraid to go to sleep, himself.
Cheryl couldn’t get herself together , despite her trying. It sounded easier to crumble to the floor and spend eternity there , it’s not like she would be in the way of anyone. Maybe a visual eyesore to Ash but he should be used to that.
She slowly nodded , hoping they would actually be able to leave this time. No evil knocking down bridges or Ash’s trash heap car stalling. Please.
She caught herself midstep , almost going towards where the room she claimed in the cabin would’ve been. Right , she was somehow in the S-Mart. She didn’t remember coming here , as far as she knew until now , she was attacked maybe five minutes ago. Add it to the pile of blank spaces , she supposed.
Uh.. You can sit in the office chair while I’m lockin’ up. It spins.
Ash was trying to be light about it, maybe trying to be a little better than he was with her before. That came from regret: Deep-set regret that he hadn’t been able to save her.
It’ll be better this time, Cher. Promise.
He managed, as he turned to wander back to his desk. But he glanced back, waiting for her to come with.
Cheryl would be fine with that , in fact maybe a little happy that he remembered she had liked them. She just hoped that she’d be able to sit on it at all.
She didn’t say anything , just sniffled and hicked , but did follow after him. She stared at the floor as if she needed to watch where she walked until she got to the chair , which by some miracle - or through floating - she could indeed use. She balled up immediately , taking a while to muster any will to speak.
Did I kill him..?
He knows who she means.
Ash cringed at the question, as he went to grab the keys with his right hand. Oh. Right, it was missing now. It was just a stub with a mannequin hand over it now. He picked up the keys. He sighed, as he realized he needed to answer it.
No, Cheryl. You didn’t kill him.
That stupid bastard, he thought, his brow furrowed. He shouldn’t have gotten in front of Shelley. It fucked him over, and now he isn’t here. God dammit. He began walking his way to lock the front door, which wasn’t far.
Cheryl had assumed the worst in the brief silence , that she’d killed her closest friend and couldn’t even remember it. Maybe that’s why she hadn’t seen him as a ghost- oh.
Alright…
Now she worried if she’d killed anyone else. It’s probably best not to tell her about Linda. She tried to push off the closest object so the chair would spin , hand went right through , damn it.
Ash stopped when he spotted her try and push herself. Okay. He wandered back over, gently pushing the chair so it would spin with his left hand. It spun a lot more than usual, considering she didn’t really weight anything.
I’ll be right back, alright? I’m jus’ lockin the doors.
Then he went to the front door, turning the lock.
Cheryl nodded , though that was hardly perceivable through her spinning. At least she wouldn’t have to worry about accidentally making herself throw up. She would argue and say she’ll be fine , that she’s not a child but it didn’t feel worth it.
She wiped her tears , somehow being spun did calm her down , at least to a more hideable degree of upset. She picked at the sleeves of “her” shirt while the chair slowed down , she wished she’d put at least one of her necklaces on after she changed.
She’ll mull over what she did remember until he gets back , which wasn’t much. Just the cellar and holding something metal.
Ash came back in only about a minute, as he put the keys back in his pocket. He went and stood next to her chair.
You ready to go, Cher?
He asked, leaning on the table. He had more questions to ask, but he would save them for in the car.
He thought about where everyone else was. Was she the only ghost? Why would she be? He wished Nate was here, at least Nate would make light of the grim situation. He picked up his gun, to take with them.
Despite the short time , Cheryl still jumped out of her skin , if it could still count as that , when he spoke. God , if she could just chill out-
As ever.
She’s trying to sound , maybe feel , normal. She never liked being in this store , it was always too crowded and now not crowded enough. She’s the ghost and yet she’s scared of something else being in here.
She stopped in the middle of getting up , catching sight of the gun. She subconsciously grabbed her shoulder , like it was hurt. It wasn’t , she didn’t think , maybe faintly. She forced herself to blink , she was being crazy ! Just walk behind him , you’re fine.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Yeah.
Ash mumbled, like he already knew what she was thinking in some way. He took the bandages, putting one in his jeans pocket, just in case maybe she could still somehow use it, eventually.
Hey, listen, maybe we can go home soon? I’ll be.. closing soon anyway. You can sleep in your room again?
He offered, like he always seemed to when she was upset. Good, the old Ash was still in there. How long would Cheryl be there? What if she disappeared by morning? Suddenly he was a bit afraid to go to sleep, himself.
Cheryl couldn’t get herself together , despite her trying. It sounded easier to crumble to the floor and spend eternity there , it’s not like she would be in the way of anyone. Maybe a visual eyesore to Ash but he should be used to that.
She slowly nodded , hoping they would actually be able to leave this time. No evil knocking down bridges or Ash’s trash heap car stalling. Please.
She caught herself midstep , almost going towards where the room she claimed in the cabin would’ve been. Right , she was somehow in the S-Mart. She didn’t remember coming here , as far as she knew until now , she was attacked maybe five minutes ago. Add it to the pile of blank spaces , she supposed.
Uh.. You can sit in the office chair while I’m lockin’ up. It spins.
Ash was trying to be light about it, maybe trying to be a little better than he was with her before. That came from regret: Deep-set regret that he hadn’t been able to save her.
It’ll be better this time, Cher. Promise.
He managed, as he turned to wander back to his desk. But he glanced back, waiting for her to come with.
Cheryl would be fine with that , in fact maybe a little happy that he remembered she had liked them. She just hoped that she’d be able to sit on it at all.
She didn’t say anything , just sniffled and hicked , but did follow after him. She stared at the floor as if she needed to watch where she walked until she got to the chair , which by some miracle - or through floating - she could indeed use. She balled up immediately , taking a while to muster any will to speak.
Did I kill him..?
He knows who she means.
Ash cringed at the question, as he went to grab the keys with his right hand. Oh. Right, it was missing now. It was just a stub with a mannequin hand over it now. He picked up the keys. He sighed, as he realized he needed to answer it.
No, Cheryl. You didn’t kill him.
That stupid bastard, he thought, his brow furrowed. He shouldn’t have gotten in front of Shelley. It fucked him over, and now he isn’t here. God dammit. He began walking his way to lock the front door, which wasn’t far.
Cheryl had assumed the worst in the brief silence , that she’d killed her closest friend and couldn’t even remember it. Maybe that’s why she hadn’t seen him as a ghost- oh.
Alright…
Now she worried if she’d killed anyone else. It’s probably best not to tell her about Linda. She tried to push off the closest object so the chair would spin , hand went right through , damn it.
Ash stopped when he spotted her try and push herself. Okay. He wandered back over, gently pushing the chair so it would spin with his left hand. It spun a lot more than usual, considering she didn’t really weight anything.
I’ll be right back, alright? I’m jus’ lockin the doors.
Then he went to the front door, turning the lock.
Cheryl nodded , though that was hardly perceivable through her spinning. At least she wouldn’t have to worry about accidentally making herself throw up. She would argue and say she’ll be fine , that she’s not a child but it didn’t feel worth it.
She wiped her tears , somehow being spun did calm her down , at least to a more hideable degree of upset. She picked at the sleeves of “her” shirt while the chair slowed down , she wished she’d put at least one of her necklaces on after she changed.
She’ll mull over what she did remember until he gets back , which wasn’t much. Just the cellar and holding something metal.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Yeah.
Ash mumbled, like he already knew what she was thinking in some way. He took the bandages, putting one in his jeans pocket, just in case maybe she could still somehow use it, eventually.
Hey, listen, maybe we can go home soon? I’ll be.. closing soon anyway. You can sleep in your room again?
He offered, like he always seemed to when she was upset. Good, the old Ash was still in there. How long would Cheryl be there? What if she disappeared by morning? Suddenly he was a bit afraid to go to sleep, himself.
Cheryl couldn’t get herself together , despite her trying. It sounded easier to crumble to the floor and spend eternity there , it’s not like she would be in the way of anyone. Maybe a visual eyesore to Ash but he should be used to that.
She slowly nodded , hoping they would actually be able to leave this time. No evil knocking down bridges or Ash’s trash heap car stalling. Please.
She caught herself midstep , almost going towards where the room she claimed in the cabin would’ve been. Right , she was somehow in the S-Mart. She didn’t remember coming here , as far as she knew until now , she was attacked maybe five minutes ago. Add it to the pile of blank spaces , she supposed.
Uh.. You can sit in the office chair while I’m lockin’ up. It spins.
Ash was trying to be light about it, maybe trying to be a little better than he was with her before. That came from regret: Deep-set regret that he hadn’t been able to save her.
It’ll be better this time, Cher. Promise.
He managed, as he turned to wander back to his desk. But he glanced back, waiting for her to come with.
Cheryl would be fine with that , in fact maybe a little happy that he remembered she had liked them. She just hoped that she’d be able to sit on it at all.
She didn’t say anything , just sniffled and hicked , but did follow after him. She stared at the floor as if she needed to watch where she walked until she got to the chair , which by some miracle - or through floating - she could indeed use. She balled up immediately , taking a while to muster any will to speak.
Did I kill him..?
He knows who she means.
Ash cringed at the question, as he went to grab the keys with his right hand. Oh. Right, it was missing now. It was just a stub with a mannequin hand over it now. He picked up the keys. He sighed, as he realized he needed to answer it.
No, Cheryl. You didn’t kill him.
That stupid bastard, he thought, his brow furrowed. He shouldn’t have gotten in front of Shelley. It fucked him over, and now he isn’t here. God dammit. He began walking his way to lock the front door, which wasn’t far.
Cheryl had assumed the worst in the brief silence , that she’d killed her closest friend and couldn’t even remember it. Maybe that’s why she hadn’t seen him as a ghost- oh.
Alright…
Now she worried if she’d killed anyone else. It’s probably best not to tell her about Linda. She tried to push off the closest object so the chair would spin , hand went right through , damn it.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Yeah.
Ash mumbled, like he already knew what she was thinking in some way. He took the bandages, putting one in his jeans pocket, just in case maybe she could still somehow use it, eventually.
Hey, listen, maybe we can go home soon? I’ll be.. closing soon anyway. You can sleep in your room again?
He offered, like he always seemed to when she was upset. Good, the old Ash was still in there. How long would Cheryl be there? What if she disappeared by morning? Suddenly he was a bit afraid to go to sleep, himself.
Cheryl couldn’t get herself together , despite her trying. It sounded easier to crumble to the floor and spend eternity there , it’s not like she would be in the way of anyone. Maybe a visual eyesore to Ash but he should be used to that.
She slowly nodded , hoping they would actually be able to leave this time. No evil knocking down bridges or Ash’s trash heap car stalling. Please.
She caught herself midstep , almost going towards where the room she claimed in the cabin would’ve been. Right , she was somehow in the S-Mart. She didn’t remember coming here , as far as she knew until now , she was attacked maybe five minutes ago. Add it to the pile of blank spaces , she supposed.
Uh.. You can sit in the office chair while I’m lockin’ up. It spins.
Ash was trying to be light about it, maybe trying to be a little better than he was with her before. That came from regret: Deep-set regret that he hadn’t been able to save her.
It’ll be better this time, Cher. Promise.
He managed, as he turned to wander back to his desk. But he glanced back, waiting for her to come with.
Cheryl would be fine with that , in fact maybe a little happy that he remembered she had liked them. She just hoped that she’d be able to sit on it at all.
She didn’t say anything , just sniffled and hicked , but did follow after him. She stared at the floor as if she needed to watch where she walked until she got to the chair , which by some miracle - or through floating - she could indeed use. She balled up immediately , taking a while to muster any will to speak.
Did I kill him..?
He knows who she means.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Yeah.
Ash mumbled, like he already knew what she was thinking in some way. He took the bandages, putting one in his jeans pocket, just in case maybe she could still somehow use it, eventually.
Hey, listen, maybe we can go home soon? I’ll be.. closing soon anyway. You can sleep in your room again?
He offered, like he always seemed to when she was upset. Good, the old Ash was still in there. How long would Cheryl be there? What if she disappeared by morning? Suddenly he was a bit afraid to go to sleep, himself.
Cheryl couldn’t get herself together , despite her trying. It sounded easier to crumble to the floor and spend eternity there , it’s not like she would be in the way of anyone. Maybe a visual eyesore to Ash but he should be used to that.
She slowly nodded , hoping they would actually be able to leave this time. No evil knocking down bridges or Ash’s trash heap car stalling. Please.
She caught herself midstep , almost going towards where the room she claimed in the cabin would’ve been. Right , she was somehow in the S-Mart. She didn’t remember coming here , as far as she knew until now , she was attacked maybe five minutes ago. Add it to the pile of blank spaces , she supposed.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
I know, god dammit, and I wish I never had!
Ash was… different. He wasn’t nearly as kind to her as he was before. There was a difference in the way he looked at her, like he was maybe still half expecting this to be a trick.
Sorry, sorry, Cher-
He mumbled. About the others. His voice wavered a little bit, like maybe he hated saying it too.
The others.. they’re dead too. All of em.
Cheryl shrunk back , doing her best not to look at him , she didn’t want to see the distrust. She didn’t want any of this , she wanted to go home and hole up in her room , bury herself in emotional drawings that’d never see the light of day.
She had to stop herself from asking about him , Nate. She just heard him say all of them. That had to include him. Shouldn’t he be a ghost too ? Why can’t she say goodbye like Ash probably got to ? She didn’t manage to suppress the sob , it was a pathetic little noise.
You’re dead , what’s the use in crying ?
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Cheryl, you’re dead-!
Okay that was a little harsh. He took a breath, clenching his jaw.
You’re- the same thing that brought the trees to life! It possessed you! You and the rest of them, dammit! And I had to—
Ash wanted to hug her again, maybe. after everything, that would be great. But he would go right through.
And I don’t know why you’re the only one back!
Cheryl looked at herself , shoulders sinking as her heart would’ve been if it still beat. Did she even have one anymore or was it with wherever her body was ?
It was that stupid tape… I told you and Scotty to not touch it ! If you had just listened to me—!
Of course , she was crying. God , wasn’t she nineteen ? She was too old to tear up like this anytime she felt big emotions , she should’ve grown out of this by now. She’ll force herself to carry on.
What do you mean , the rest of them..?
She never thought ghosts could feel like this , it still feels so living.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash yanked his hand away, a sinking feeling in his chest. He was still her big brother, he could explain this! She was a ghost, right? He’d believe anything by now.
…Cheryl. Do you remember anything?
He held his hands out, expressing his words with them.
About the cabin? The trees? The demons? Any of it?
He did hate seeing her like this, she was still bleeding and he couldn’t help at all.
I remember the trees.
Cheryl’s words held a small bit of venom. Her neck was still irritated red from them , made only worse by the scratches and splinters.
… The bridge was out. That’s the last I remember.
She barely remembers coming back to the cabin afterwards. Everything went blurry after that. There were a few moments after but they made no sense to her. Why would she be in the cellar , she thought it was too scary.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash stopped, immediately pulling his arms back. Cold? God she wasn’t actually there, was she? But he wasn’t crazy! Unlike what everyone in this damn town thought of him, he wasn’t crazy?
I’m not… messin around, Cheryl-
Well obviously she didn’t mean him harm, and also, she couldn’t hit him even if she wanted to.
Cher.. look.
He reached his hand out, now holding the bandage in the other one. His hand went right through her.
This isn’t funny , Ash ! I’m being…
Cheryl did look. She froze as it processed. His hand was through her.
serious..
Her voice wavered , she didn’t know what this was. She knew the trees were alive and the tape had something to do with it but what did that mean for her ? She clawed those vines off herself , they didn’t kill her. Did they.. curse her ? Could that happen ?
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash looked down at the boxes of bandages, picking one up and unrolling it a bit. He took a second to look her over. She looked exactly the same as she did that night, the night before she got possessed—
The night everything went to hell.
But, a spark of near-impossible hope found its way to the surface. If somehow she was really back. This could be his chance. He reached out, to put the bandage on her.
Cheryl still hugged herself , fingers pinching and rubbing her shirt sleeve - which was technically his but he’s not getting it back - so she could possibly lower her heart rate.
The bandage was indeed having a problem with going on , that being it went right through her. Along with his hands. It felt like walking by the produce section.
Come on , don’t mess around. I don’t want to get an infection.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash swallowed, slowly lowering the barrel of the gun. He aimed it at the floor, as he looked her up and down. Usually deadites didn’t play the long game like this, they would quickly gain your trust quick and attack almost immediately. His eyes scanned for some other weapon, his eyes landing on an axe resting on the shelf on a different isle. If he needed it, he could get it. He usually would just shoot and think later, but this felt.. different. He turned on the safety, and put the gun down on the table.
Alright, you got it-
He managed, still cautious. He hoped it was her, somehow. He turned toward the health isle.
Cheryl untensed , just a bit , she was still cautious herself.
Thank you.
She’s used to him being odd but at this moment ? She’s more than a little annoyed with him. Now was not the time to be waving around a gun , god knows where he got that thing in the first place.
She went back to the aisle , where there was an open box of bandages on the ground. It seemed like it fell off the shelf rather than her picking it out. A few rolls were strewn about but it didn’t even look like she attempted to open one.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Ash’s eyes widened, and softened, and his hands shuffled with the gun, but didn’t lower it. Lord, if this was another trick. They can’t trick him again, god dammit!
Cheryl-? You’re dead..
He mumbled, but he couldnt hoping maybe it was her. Maybe somehow, she’d come back.
This… this thing’s loaded, yknow… don’t try anything-
Don’t point that thing at me !
Cheryl took a half step back. She didn’t believe he’d shoot her on purpose but she knew how empty minded he can be.
Just- help me , Ashley. I can’t get the bandages on.
She briefly looked towards the health aisle , where it could be assumed she came from. She just wants to stop the bleeding.
Ash… Ashley ?
Huh-?
Ash looked around, an eyebrow raised in total confusion. Cheryl was dead. Was it another deadite? Oh he was ready if there was. He picked up the gun he kept under the carpet display table he kept it under. He looked around, it help up, and ready to blow some deadite brains out.
Oh cmon! Show yourself, you demonic shit-for-brains!
It was quiet for a second , a pause to mess with him ?
Ashley , it’s me—
The voice slightly shook. In front of him , seemingly out of thin air , was Cheryl , normal Cheryl. For the most part. Her skin wasn’t hideous and decayed , at most just half translucent. Cuts lined her face and neck , lines of what had been bleeding that night after the woods. Her arms hugged herself , she looked horrified.
Opinions on Hershey bars and Chex?
They’re good for break snacks !
