Page 51 of The Midnight Knock

Thomas said, “If I am correct, it would imply that you’re wrong, Mister Cross. That youhavebeen here before.”

Tabitha said, “On the other hand, I’m inclined to believe that you are correct. You—this you, speaking with us right now, tonight—have never been here before.”

Ethan stared.

“I was hoping that tonight might be different,” Tabitha said.

“A relief it wasn’t, when you realize what’s at stake,” Thomas said sourly.

11:51.

Kyla said, “Why is time moving so fast?”

Tabitha said, “You should have asked Sarah when you had the chance. She was the physicist.”

Thomas said, “We are but humble archaeologists.”

11:54.

Fernanda said, “Another light just died outside. There are eyes everywhere.”

Ethan said to the twins, “Why us?”

“Because the ceremony seeks repair,” Thomas said. “Without it—”

“It’s an evil thing we’ve done,” Tabitha said.

Thomas’s head snapped around to study his sister. She wasn’t supposed to say this. “Be quiet.”

11:58.

“We’ve been doing this for so long,” Tabitha said. “It isn’t working. It can’t survive.”

A wave ofSHRIEKSrose up from the desert and didn’t stop. The creature behind the walnut door grew wild. A savage wind buffeted the motel, shook the windows, moaned through the roof.

“What is this?” Ethan said. “What have you done to us?”

“There’s no time to explain,” Tabitha said. “It’s almost midnight.”

Ethan said, “Then take us to your safe place. Explain what the hell is going on.”

“There is no safe place. Did you ever really believe there was?” Tabitha said.

“You aren’t supposed to say that,” Thomas said.

“I never agreed to those terms,” Tabitha said.

11:59.

Tabitha looked at Ethan. At Kyla. She looked desperate. “Please, tomorrow—find a way to remember.”

Thomas held up a hand to stop her.

Tabitha ignored him. “We’ve been trapped for so long.”

“Bequiet!” Thomas said.

“We’ve been trapped here,” Tabitha said. “Just like you.”