리틀팍스

 Next morning, Colin kicked Peter as he woke him up.

“Get up. It’s time for breakfast.” Colin said in a stiff voice.

Peter was still touched by Colin’s words last night, so he didn’t complain for Colin’s stiff voice. He went to the kitchen table and started preparing the dishes.

“Thank you, Peter.” Helena said in a tired voice. Peter thought that she was still sad about Mr. Morgan’s death even though it had passed a long time. When the breakfast was ready, they all sat down. There was an awkward silence once again which was happening every time since yesterday.

 “I heard Mrs. May has a 90th birthday today, mom.” said Colin, trying to cheer her mom up. Her face slightly lit up.

“That’s nice to know. Maybe we can go celebrate her later.” she said, trying to smile in front of the kids.

“Mrs. Morgan.” Peter said slowly. “Can I go to the French Alley this afternoon?”

“Why do you want to go there?” Helena looked surprised because Peter had almost never asked something to her. Actually, he usually never said a word in the house.

“Just to buy some books I need for the next term.”

“Sure, Peter. Well. why don't we all go there? Colin, you have to buy some books for school too, don’t you? Term is beginning soon, dear.”

“Yes. But-”

“Brilliant. Let’s go to French Alley all together at 1 o’clock. What are you guys doing? Hurry up and get ready!” she sounded really excited like a child going to field trip. Peter was little bit proud and relieved that he made Mrs. Helena happy. He didn’t know that she likes French Alley so much.

 French Alley was not so far from the Wolkin drive. Mrs. Helena kept talking while they walked to French Alley.

“James used to love coming here. I always wanted to come along with him, but he didn’t let me. I still don't understand that part of James. Yes, he did have a lot of secrets. It’s my first time coming here.” she had a lonely smile on her face.

When they arrived at the place, they soon realized something weird.

“I guess Halloween party is held” Helena said as he stared at other people. People were wearing cloaks. And some of them were even holding broomsticks and wands.

“It seems so. But it’s June. How come they celebrate Halloween in June?” Colin said.

Peter was stunned. Something flashed through his mind timidly when he saw the people wearing cloaks and holding wands. A flashing light, destroyed castle, and his parents. He had never seen his parents or any of them he just felt, but he had a strong feeling of them for a second.

“What’s wrong with you?” Colin asked, frowning.

“Nothing. I'm fine. I'm fine.” Peter answered quickly. He was still feeling kind of weird.

“Well, let’s go see the books.” Helena said cheerfully.

 They began to walk around the French Alley. But they couldn’t look for the books because a dozen of people were following them for about thirty minutes. They were feeling uncomfortable, so Helena finally spoke out with made-up smile and gentle voice.

“Excuse me, but would you please stop following us? It’s kind of uncomfortable, you know.”

They started to talk in whisper by themselves. A woman carrying an owl on her shoulder said slowly.

“The boy.” she said, pointing at Peter. She reached to him.

“You’re Mr. Peter Pruwett, aren’t you?” Everything suddenly got so quiet. Everyone was looking at Peter with wide eyes with their mouth wide opened.

“.....Yes, I am. But... how?” Peter was completely stiffed. He was also scared, of course. How can someone be completely okay when some strangers know their name?

“Brilliant! Of course we know your name! Everyone knows your name. Peter Pruwett, one of the B.W.W survivors! Oh, god. It’s such an honor to see you, Mr. Pruwett. Can I shake your hand, sir? Please?” A young girl with broomstick blurted out dramatically, excited.

 Peter Pruwett couldn’t believe what was happening. Now, dozens of strangers were shouting in front of him to shake his hand. Peter was panicked. He eagerly hoped all this would be only a dream. A terrifying dream.