Simon Barker

Sure, was her dull reply.

Simon groaned in frustration.

He kept his eyes straight ahead, not daring to look at the place where his grandfather had sat.

He took deep, calming breaths while keeping an eye out for the next bus stop.

But his heart wouldn't stop racing.

At least he was ready this time.

No distractions and no shoving would keep him from the door.

He stared at the sign down the road indicating the next stop and lowered his feet to the top stair.

But the bus didn't slow down.

A few people were clearly waiting for it, but the driver didn't even look at them as she sped by.

What the hell?

Simon growled, his face suddenly inches from hers.

She smelled like meat and cheese, and a drop of mustard had fallen onto her shirt.

Why didn't you stop?

You're not getting off.

Her tone was casual, but her words sent a chill down Simon's spine.

What did you say?

She suddenly turned, and her voice became a deep rumble.

Her face transformed as she spoke, her eyes switching from blue to red.

Her mouth became a deep black cavern, and horns peaked out from her brittle hair.