It Followed Me Home
Chapter 1

A Road of Sorrow

Seven years have passed since I left behind my home planet. I can assure you it was not due in part because I desired an exit. No, there was a far more insidious meaning behind my departure. I have been hunted relentlessly by an entity I have never seen save for what I believe to be its silhouette. And even then I never had the time to piece the puzzle together of what I was facing. Whenever it made its appearance known I fled.

I am grateful for the inheritance I received from my mother and father nine years ago. It is bittersweet to say the least because it is also the day my parents were taken from me forever. It pains me to state the obvious; their end was my saving grace. My parents owned a small fortune that I have wasted on an expensive star-ship. The rest of the money has funded my ventures in planet hopping.

I do not have the luxury on staying grounded any longer, less I risk the chance of it finding me. The last time it came for me was a few years ago. I could feel its presence surrounding my every thought. I remember the sound of metal clashing against a wall when I dodged what I imagined to be a fatal blow. If it wasn't for my knowledge on the layout of the city I hid in, I would have been a goner.

Since then my paranoia has defined my every move. I no longer trust the false sense of security. The cities are dangerous with that thing hunting me. I chose remote locations at the edge of human civilization where farmers started a new life away from the control of government. It was a vicious life. But while my lungs drew breath I had every reason to believe it was still out there in the vast blackness of space searching for me. There was a nagging feeling in the back of my head knowing sooner than later we would be getting better acquainted.

# # # #

The weather on this rock was humid and unbearably hot. At least that is what I would use to describe the climate of the most recent planet I am currently hiding on. Warm weather is something I have always despised since I was a child. I guess part of the problem is I have always lived in colder climates my entire life. Then again, there is something about the solitude of winter that soothes me. Maybe it was the silence or the pureness of fresh snow on the earth that attracted me?

It seemed like my entire life I have always been alone. Very rarely do I ever take a step back and ponder upon my situation. It is kinda funny but true. Living at the precipice of human civilization and knowing at any moment I could be murdered deterred me from my own worries. But I had to admit the truth, I was alone. Sometimes that loneliness would eat at my core. Nevertheless, there was nothing I could do under the circumstances in which I find myself.

I wiped the sweat from my forehead, then ran my hand through my medium length black hair. I was tending to crops while the oppressive rays of the star Vernigo bared downward. Watering the vegetables in this heat was unpleasant. For if they were not tended to constantly they would dry up in a matter of hours.

On this backwater planet my only option was to work for the farmers. It was a mutually beneficial arrangement. I got payed and they grew enough crops to feed the village. Starvation was a likely prospect in these parts.

There were a couple scattered communities around the planet ranging from less than a hundred to a little over a thousand. My village was the latter. It would be a suitable home for a few more months before my inevitable departure. I had to stock up on more gear at the nearest port before I drifted to my next location.

Just as I was finishing the last plant, Abigail, the owner of the farm, walked towards me. She was a middle aged woman with long red hair in a ponytail. She had beautiful jade green eyes and a smile that would brighten the most depressed person in the galaxy. She was wearing a semi tight white t-shirt that accentuated her large bosom. Sweat ran downward from her face onto her breasts forcing me to pause and stare for a moment.

She wiped her brow and said, "Hello James. I see you have already finished your work for the day. You are one hell of a worker might I admit? You're always here on time and have finished early everyday since you began working for me. I wish half of my employees had your work ethic! Much more would get done around here."

She smiled then proceeded to push my shoulder playfully. If it wasn't for the fact my living situation was in such shambles I would most definitely consider shacking in with her. Even if she was at least ten years older than me. I was only twenty-six but the things I had seen matured me swifter than the average adult.

I beamed at her and said, "Just doing my job Ms. Sullivan."

She shook her head, "Please call me Abigail. Say would you be interested in having dinner with me tonight at my house? I just bought some fresh meat from the butchers. The hunters scored some good kills yesterday and I have no one to dine with."

I took a few moments to ponder on this predicament. It was in my best interest and the people around me to give them a wide berth. I couldn't help asking myself was there really any harm in having some peace and quiet? Even though it would only last a few moments?
I made my choice saying, "Sure. I will be over in a few hours after I get cleaned up."

From there I made my way home and took a shower. Working all day in the blistering heat was taxing, but the cool water rejuvenated my soul.

After the wash I walked to the mirror and examined myself. Observing my white skin I immediately noticed the pallor. My dark hair did not help in this problem. I was not eating nor drinking properly. It was beginning to take a toll on my body. My hazel colored eyes seemed to shine with life save for the rest of my body. At least I had that going for me.

I was limited in the clothing department. Most of my outfits were designed for cold weather climates. I kept a small amount of clothing in my tiny home while the rest of my gear remained on-board my star-ship in case I had to bug out. With what little I had I found a decent pair of black jeans and a clean blue shirt to finish my attire.

Most of the populous on this planet who owned star-ships kept theirs near their property. I was more cautious in my approach. I hid my ship in the nearby jungle. Before I left it be I covered it in foliage. From time to time I would ensure no one had tampered with it since my last visit. System diagnostics were ran each month.

These precautions were necessary. Not only because of this predator that is hunting me, but also because I lived at the outer rim of humanity. Pirates may descend on our colony at any moment. These men and women who lived here were not only required to sustain life but defend it on the likely chance we were invaded.

I know how to use my bullpup rifle and handgun effectively thanks to my fathers training. Still, I am no soldier. If I survive this chaos that has enraptured my life I can rest assured in knowing I will be baptized in fire.

It took me roughly ten minutes to arrive at Abigail's home. Her house was designed for long term living unlike my small shanty. It was a large ranch meant for a family. Something I would never have. While I knocked at the door I watched the massive orange star Vernigo moving beyond the skyline as nightfall neared.

Abigail answered the door wearing a beautiful black dress. I tried to hide my embarrassment knowing I did not have the luxury to dress beyond casual. It was clear she did not mind as she grinned and welcomed me within.

Her home was nothing short of magnificent. She had paintings drawn by artists that charged more than I could ever dream of conjuring. A bouquet of exotic flowers in multiple colors sat on a table in the living room along with other essentials to keep one occupied. It was clear she was wealthy.

"It's good to see you came James. To be honest I thought you might not show up."

I turned my head sideways and said, "Why?" My expression showing signs of confusion.

We entered the kitchen as she said, "Well you show no interest in getting to know anyone on this planet. You are a wall of steel that keeps everyone out. The strength of a community such as ours is powered by trust in one another. I am glad to see this is a start."

I nodded then turned and observed the dining room table. There were silver utensils and plates on it. A couple candles were lighted giving off a pleasant welcoming aura. She offered me a seat as I sat down and watched her preparing to plate our food.

I sighed knowing I wanted to tell her the truth. I needed to confide in someone. "Well believe me if I could settle down and get to know the people of this settlement I would gladly do it. Nevertheless my situation is a pressing matter I wish only myself to be involved with."

The scent of whatever she was cooking wafted towards me. The smell painted a picture of it being delicious.

"You're scaring me James. You make it sound like you are a wanted killer on the run. People like that come to planets such as this to avoid the law and find shelter in going incognito."

I chuckled, "No not even close. Though now that you made that statement known I feel that would be a better situation than what I am in. It's hard to describe. Lets just say there is something hunting me and I do not know why. I have every reason to believe it is an alien. I would compare it to a bounty hunter. Before you ask I have no idea why anyone would want to harm me. I have done nothing wrong. I promise you there is nothing to fear. Your colony will remain safe. I always leave before it can pinpoint my next location. I have been doing this for seven years after all."

She looked shocked as she sat down and handed me my plate. I stared at the dinner before me. It was baked poultry smothered in mushrooms with a light gravy sauce. Steamed broccoli and potatoes were the side dishes. Abigail even brought out dinner rolls with butter. It was a mouth watering feast compared to the paste I had used as sustenance for the past few months. This was a real meal.

She spoke breathlessly, "I could not imagine constantly fleeing for my life. You poor thing. How old are you? Twenty-five? Twenty-six?"

In a matter of fact tone I said, "Twenty-six."

She was speechless. "Well if you must go I understand, even though I believe we could protect you from it. No matter, until that time comes I hope we can spend more time together."

I smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry. I have made peace with my life. I know my time is limited. But your concern is appreciated. But let's forget about this stuff. Might I add your food is amazing. I have not had the pleasure in dining on such quality fare in quite a long time."

At those words she blushed. "I was worried you would find it gross after I started preparing the dish."

The night went by swifter than I had initially hoped. It was a lot of innocent fun. Something I forgot existed. She offered me to stay with her tonight but I turned her down. I liked Abigail but was not ready for what that would lead too. Getting intimate would only make it that much harder for me to leave. It was something I sadly could not afford.

Although I slept alone tonight I felt more lively than I had in years. As I laid my head on my pillow I looked forward to the morning instead of the usual dread that followed whenever I tried to sleep. There would be no night-terrors tonight, only the bliss of dreamless sleep.

# # # #

In the vastness of space a medium sized star-ship of alien origin decelerated from quantum drive. It had just entered the Vernigo star system. In the cockpit sat a humanoid entity. At first sight there was no denying the fact it was an alien from another world.

It sighed deeply speaking in its foreign tongue, "My patience was the key. I have finally found you. This moment is something I have waited a long time for. Nothing will stand in my way of claiming your skull as my next trophy. There is no escape this time my dear ooman. Pray to your maker for your time is limited in this galaxy."

It made a soft clicking sound and laughed disturbingly among the silence of its ship. It clicked a button on the command console setting a course for the only habitable planet in this system.

# # # #

I woke feeling refreshed and ready for another day. It took no time in getting dressed. I ate a light meal of nutrient paste and was out the door shortly after.

It was early in the morning but already the heat was quite unpleasant. I made my way to the greenhouse following my everyday routine. Some plants were unable to handle this stars piercing rays. Those plants remained in this hot box.

I turned on the sprinklers and took care of the rest of my morning duties when Abigail came from behind and startled me.

"Woah there Mr! You're a little jumpy." She giggled then continued, "Hey I just wanted to tell you I had a wonderful time with you yesterday. Hopefully it is not a one and done kind of scenario."

I could hear the sincerity in her voice and it made me smile as I shook my head. "Don't worry I wanted to tell you I had a lot of fun and was looking forward to doing it with you aga..."

It was at that moment I was reminded why I must always be alone. A sound that could be described as nothing more than a deafening boom echoed behind Abigail. Before either of us could react I felt a warm gooey substance splatter on my face.

One moment she was smiling at me. The next, she was gone. From the neck up there was no longer a head. Blood sprayed from her gaping orifice as I witnessed part of her spinal cord dangling from the neck. In my horror it occurred to me that what was covering my face was her blood and brain matter. Her body twitched as it collapsed to the ground covering the dirt with copious amounts of crimson.

I tried to scream but my voice failed me as I remained motionless in shock. I noticed three red laser dots aimed right for my chest. I was out of time. I had to make my move.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Just a heads up, this book does contain graphic depictions of violence and some sexual content. If you are fine with that then carry on!

I chose to write this story to get myself back into the groove of writing before I continue my work on my second novel I am working on. My intentions are to write for a living. With that said any feedback whether positive or negative is welcomed. Please favorite, rate, and review this if it appeals to you. Constructive criticism is welcomed as well.

If you enjoy my work you may also email me and go further in detail about the content with me from there. Anyway have a wonderful day and thanks for reading!