Ghost Story

Alexander Browning looked in the mirror. Looking back at him was a zombie from a horror show. His hair had not been cut in a year and hung uncombed in a riot of brown and gray tangles. His beard grew wild and matted with bits of his latest meal. A Grateful Dead t-shirt with so many holes that the logo could hardly be recognized hung off his bony shoulders. It had not always been like this. Two years ago, he had had an enviable life, with a loving family, and successful career until the fire changed everything. Now, two young girl sized clouds of mist with faint sad faces haunted him. They cried and moaned and reached out for him, beseeching him for help with their little transparent arms. His wounded heart assumed they were the ghosts of his own little girls, haunting him for failing them. The heartache their presence caused him was his penance and he paid it day after day.

Alexander must overcome his own wounded heart before he can help the ghosts with their wounds and music is the key. But he blames his music for his families death and the very sounds of music have become agonizing to him.