*Chapter 2: The Decision*
Emily's mind was racing as she walked to her car, the letter clutched in her hand. She couldn't shake off the feeling that this invitation was more than just a simple party invite. The mysterious mansion, the unsigned letter, and the cryptic message all seemed to hint at something more sinister.
As she drove home, Emily's thoughts were torn between excitement and fear. She had always been drawn to the supernatural and the unknown, but this seemed different. This seemed...personal.
When she arrived home, Emily decided to do some research on Ravenswood Manor. She typed the name into her search engine, but all she could find were a few vague mentions of a mansion that had been abandoned for decades.
Determined to learn more, Emily picked up the phone and dialed the number of her friend, Matt, who was a local historian. Matt answered on the first ring, and Emily asked him if he knew anything about Ravenswood Manor.
"Ravenswood?" Matt repeated, his voice low and serious. "That's an old mansion on the outskirts of town. It's been abandoned for years, but I've heard rumors that it's been restored recently."
"Restored?" Emily's curiosity was piqued. "By who?"
"I don't know," Matt admitted. "But I've heard that it's been bought by a wealthy collector. Some people say he's planning to throw some big parties there."
Emily's mind was racing. Could this be the same person who had sent her the invitation? She decided to ask Matt one more question.
"Do you know anything about a Mr. Blackwood?" she asked, trying to sound casual.
There was a pause on the other end of the line, and for a moment, Emily thought she'd lost the connection. But then Matt spoke, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Blackwood? As in, Malcolm Blackwood?"
"Yes, that's right," Emily said, her heart racing.
"I wouldn't go there if I were you, Emily," Matt said, his voice serious. "There's something about that family...something that doesn't feel right."
To Be Continued...