The Howl at Cheswick Manor — Susan Hart

In the quaint village of Cheswick in the rolling hills of southern England, an eerie howl from a dog pierces the tranquil summer night. The haunting sound comes from outside the stately home of Reginald Smythe, one of the village's most respected elders. Concerned neighbors gather to investigate, and what they discover sends shockwaves through the close-knit community.The villagers approach the sprawling estate of Reginald Smythe, their faces etched with worry and curiosity. The air is thick with tension as they spot a figure lurking in the shadows near the entrance. It's Mrs. Abernathy, the Smythe family's long-serving housekeeper, her usually stoic expression now contorted with fear.What on earth has happened, Mrs. Abernathy? asks Agnes, the village baker, her voice trembling slightly.Mrs. Abernathy casts a wary glance around before leaning in closer to whisper, It's Mr. Smythe... he's gone missing.Gasps and murmurs ripple through the group as they exchange anxious looks. Reginald Smythe, the pillar of Cheswick, missing without a trace? It was unfathomable.Just then, a flickering light catches their attention from inside the mansion. The group watches in silence as a shadowy figure moves past the window, its shape barely discernible in the dimly lit room. Agnes, her heart pounding in her chest, steps forward and squints through the glass.Is that... is that Mr. Smythe? she whispers, her voice barely audible.Mrs. Abernathy nods gravely. Yes, but something is not right. He's acting... strangely.