Harmony

WEBVTT
00:00:02.560 --> 00:00:04.240
Emily exited the highway.
00:00:04.400 --> 00:00:08.320
The Welcome to Harmony sign stood just after the exit ramp.
00:00:08.560 --> 00:00:12.320
The color was faded, and the sign was missing the M and welcome.
00:00:12.720 --> 00:00:19.839
She drove through the old coal town and watched the dilapidated houses with chipped asbestos siding and gutters torn loose slide by.
00:00:20.640 --> 00:00:22.640
Finally, she thought.
00:00:22.960 --> 00:00:24.160
She turned a corner.
00:00:24.320 --> 00:00:27.120
The town's elementary school came into view.
00:00:27.600 --> 00:00:31.440
One window was covered with a blue tarp and it billowed in the wind.
00:00:32.159 --> 00:00:40.880
Red maples and white oaks stood at the edge of each property line surrounding the town, as if the town itself had forced the forest back just enough to exist.
00:00:41.920 --> 00:00:43.439
Emily laughed.
00:00:43.759 --> 00:00:46.000
This town a medical miracle?
00:00:46.479 --> 00:00:50.159
She glanced at her notebook, sitting on the passenger seat.
00:00:50.560 --> 00:00:52.880
Then her gaze went back to the road.
00:00:53.359 --> 00:00:55.840
She swerved to avoid a pothole.
00:00:56.240 --> 00:01:02.799
A large sign stood at the edge of the road for the Harmony Motel, with a neon vacancy sign blinking beneath it.
00:01:03.039 --> 00:01:09.920
She cringed, either from the thought of staying in that run-down motel or from the thought of the long drive home.
00:01:10.799 --> 00:01:19.680
As she drove down the road, the buildings on both sides became more sparse until only the maples and oaks stood at the edge of the road as it carved its way through the forest.
00:01:20.400 --> 00:01:22.560
She glanced at her GPS.
00:01:23.280 --> 00:01:25.280
She was only a minute away.
00:01:26.159 --> 00:01:28.719
The screen in her car flickered.
00:01:28.959 --> 00:01:30.640
Then it went dark.
00:01:31.599 --> 00:01:34.879
Her brow furrowed, and she tapped the screen with her finger.
00:01:35.519 --> 00:01:38.000
That seemed to bring it to life again.
00:01:38.239 --> 00:01:42.799
Only the GPS marker wasn't on the road following her route anymore.
00:01:43.359 --> 00:01:49.680
It was off to the side and facing the wrong direction, but it still moved across the map in the same direction she drove.
00:01:50.560 --> 00:01:56.079
She shook her head and stared out the window, looking for signage for the Harmony Manor.
00:01:56.799 --> 00:01:58.480
She reached the end of the road.
00:02:02.400 --> 00:02:03.920
The gate was open.
00:02:04.159 --> 00:02:06.560
It was held up by stone pillars.
00:02:06.799 --> 00:02:12.159
The bust of a lion was perched on top of both pillars, looking out over the road.
00:02:12.639 --> 00:02:15.120
This must be it, she thought.
00:02:15.599 --> 00:02:18.400
She turned off the road and drove through the gate.
00:02:18.719 --> 00:02:21.280
The landscape changed immediately.
00:02:21.840 --> 00:02:33.439
Sugar maple trees stood in perfect rows lining both sides of the drive, and their branches intertwined overhead so completely that the driveway seemed to pass through the ribcage of some enormous animal.
00:02:34.400 --> 00:02:38.719
Beyond the sugar maple trees was more forest that sat in full dark.
00:02:39.520 --> 00:02:43.840
The dark seemed to press in against the driveway.
00:02:44.719 --> 00:02:49.599
When the lights from the manor came into view ahead, Emily let out a breath.
00:02:50.719 --> 00:02:56.080
Several cars were already parked along the front of the house, and she pulled up behind the last one and parked.
00:02:56.400 --> 00:02:59.759
She grabbed her notebook and shoulder bag and stepped out of the car.
00:03:00.560 --> 00:03:06.159
A cool breeze moved across her face and carried with it the smell of honeysuckle and damp earth.
00:03:07.039 --> 00:03:10.879
Beneath the honeysuckle lingered a faint copper smell.
00:03:12.240 --> 00:03:15.199
Light filtered out the first floor windows of the manor.
00:03:15.599 --> 00:03:17.280
The second floor was dark.
00:03:18.240 --> 00:03:23.360
Centered in each second-story window was a single orange light that resembled a candle.
00:03:24.400 --> 00:03:30.080
Emily pulled out her phone to check the time, and the lock screen photo of her son playing at the park caught her eye.
00:03:30.560 --> 00:03:31.759
As it always did.
00:03:33.120 --> 00:03:38.000
She smiled and tucked her phone away, only realizing then that she forgot to check the time.
00:03:39.120 --> 00:03:43.039
The front porch steps were framed with a white arch made of hardwood.
00:03:43.360 --> 00:03:49.360
The door at the entrance was a large maroon-colored double door with intricate carvings from top to bottom.
00:03:49.599 --> 00:03:51.520
She raised her hand and knocked.
00:03:51.840 --> 00:03:54.240
But before she could, the door opened.
00:03:55.360 --> 00:03:59.360
By the way the door slid open, she could tell how heavy it was.
00:03:59.919 --> 00:04:03.120
A man appeared bearing a toothless grin.
00:04:03.599 --> 00:04:06.479
He wore a tuxedo with a dark red bow tie.
00:04:07.520 --> 00:04:10.240
Please come in, the man said.
00:04:10.960 --> 00:04:14.159
Emily still had her hand in the air when she smiled back.
00:04:14.400 --> 00:04:15.680
Then she walked in.
00:04:15.919 --> 00:04:21.519
I can hang your bag if you'd like, miss, the man said, pointing to the rack next to the door.
00:04:22.160 --> 00:04:25.279
She handed him her shoulder bag and scanned the room.
00:04:25.600 --> 00:04:28.240
The foyer was a massive room.
00:04:28.480 --> 00:04:32.319
It had a central staircase that rose to a balcony on the second floor.
00:04:32.560 --> 00:04:35.680
The balcony wrapped around the perimeter of the room.
00:04:35.920 --> 00:04:43.759
The foyer was already packed with guests with drinks in hand, picking hors d'oeuvres from large ornate plates held by staff weaving through the crowd.
00:04:44.160 --> 00:04:49.839
The floor was white marble, and she could see a faint reflection of herself in it as she walked.
00:04:50.319 --> 00:04:56.240
The sound her heels made when they struck the marble was loud, and everyone seemed to turn as she walked in.
00:04:56.879 --> 00:04:58.319
Some smiled.
00:04:58.560 --> 00:05:01.680
Some turned back to their conversations without gesture.
00:05:02.000 --> 00:05:04.000
Emily looked around the room.
00:05:04.240 --> 00:05:06.399
She felt her phone vibrate.
00:05:06.800 --> 00:05:09.199
She pulled it out and saw it was her mom.
00:05:09.600 --> 00:05:11.120
She answered quickly.
00:05:11.360 --> 00:05:13.680
Hi, Mom, is everything okay?
00:05:14.879 --> 00:05:17.360
Hi, sweetie, her mother said.
00:05:17.600 --> 00:05:20.720
Her voice was weak but joyful.
00:05:21.279 --> 00:05:22.879
Is everything okay?
00:05:23.839 --> 00:05:25.680
Oh yeah, I'm okay.
00:05:26.000 --> 00:05:30.879
I just wanted to call and see how you're doing, her mother said.
00:05:31.839 --> 00:05:34.800
Mom, I told you I'm working tonight, remember?
00:05:34.959 --> 00:05:36.879
I'll call you tomorrow, okay?
00:05:37.600 --> 00:05:42.240
The sound of her mother's labored breathing lingered over the line.
00:05:43.360 --> 00:05:45.680
Oh, okay, sweetie.
00:05:45.920 --> 00:05:48.800
I I love you, her mom said.
00:05:49.600 --> 00:05:53.439
All right, I love you too, Emily said before hanging up.
00:05:53.920 --> 00:05:59.839
She tucked her phone away as one of the staff walked over carrying a plate full of glasses of champagne.
00:06:00.160 --> 00:06:01.680
Would you like a drink, Miss?
00:06:01.920 --> 00:06:03.920
The man asked, holding the plate out.
00:06:04.079 --> 00:06:10.399
She took a glass of champagne and scanned the crowd for the party's host, State Senator Thomas Whitaker.
00:06:11.120 --> 00:06:14.319
She didn't see him in the mass of guests conversing in the foyer.
00:06:15.519 --> 00:06:18.319
Hello, Miss, a voice called.
00:06:18.720 --> 00:06:22.240
Emily turned and saw a priest with a bourbon in his hand.
00:06:22.800 --> 00:06:24.560
She nodded her head.
00:06:24.959 --> 00:06:25.600
Hello.
00:06:26.560 --> 00:06:29.519
I haven't seen you before, the priest said.
00:06:29.759 --> 00:06:31.279
I'm Father Callahan.
00:06:31.839 --> 00:06:33.439
He stuck out his hand.
00:06:34.079 --> 00:06:35.439
Emily took it.
00:06:35.759 --> 00:06:40.879
Emily Tharp, reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer, here to interview State Senator Whitaker.
00:06:41.600 --> 00:06:41.920
Ah.
00:06:42.319 --> 00:06:44.160
The priest nodded and smiled.
00:06:44.399 --> 00:06:45.439
How exciting.
00:06:45.680 --> 00:06:48.399
Here to chat about our people's good health, yes?
00:06:48.800 --> 00:06:52.160
Extraordinary health, I would say, Emily laughed.
00:06:52.480 --> 00:06:57.199
The priest's lips peeled back over his teeth, but his smile remained.
00:06:57.600 --> 00:06:59.519
Emily cleared her throat.
00:06:59.920 --> 00:07:03.360
Over the past three years, not a single death from heart disease.
00:07:03.600 --> 00:07:06.800
Terminal illness is almost nonexistent here.
00:07:07.040 --> 00:07:10.079
Your residents regularly live into their nineties.
00:07:10.240 --> 00:07:11.759
It's truly incredible.
00:07:12.000 --> 00:07:15.120
The rest of us want to know the secret, Emily said.
00:07:15.920 --> 00:07:22.800
The smile on the priest's face disappeared for a blink, and when it returned, it no longer reached his eyes.
00:07:23.279 --> 00:07:29.600
A good diet, exercise, and a strong faith can keep you going for a long time, he said.
00:07:30.800 --> 00:07:35.360
His eyes narrowed, and the sight of it made Emily recoil slightly.
00:07:36.240 --> 00:07:39.680
Amen to that, she said, raising her glass.
00:07:39.920 --> 00:07:42.800
Father Callahan raised his glass in return.
00:07:43.360 --> 00:07:45.519
Enjoy yourself tonight, Miss Thorpe.
00:07:45.680 --> 00:07:47.439
May our Lord be with you.
00:07:47.680 --> 00:07:50.160
He turned away before she could respond.
00:07:50.720 --> 00:07:53.920
His parting words rattled in her head.
00:07:54.319 --> 00:07:56.399
May our Lord be with you.
00:07:57.759 --> 00:08:01.279
She shook her head and went back to looking for Senator Whitaker.
00:08:01.600 --> 00:08:04.480
She wandered around the room with her drink in her hand.
00:08:04.879 --> 00:08:09.279
Senator Whitaker appeared at the top of the staircase with his wife latched to his arm.
00:08:10.000 --> 00:08:13.519
They both smiled and waved as they descended the stairs.
00:08:13.920 --> 00:08:17.600
Senator Whitaker shook hands with a few members of the crowd.
00:08:17.759 --> 00:08:21.360
His wife gave hugs and grinned wide when she spoke.
00:08:21.759 --> 00:08:23.519
She was beautiful.
00:08:23.920 --> 00:08:31.680
She had blonde hair cut to shoulder length that curled around her face as if it knew exactly how to compliment her prominent cheekbones.
00:08:32.080 --> 00:08:35.519
She had blue eyes, and Emily noticed when her gaze lingered.
00:08:35.679 --> 00:08:39.279
Her eyes seemed to stare through whatever was in front of them.
00:08:39.679 --> 00:08:47.759
Her blue dress hung from her shoulders and swept the floor behind her as she walked, hiding the Christian Louis Vuitton heels she wore underneath.
00:08:48.960 --> 00:08:55.519
Emily watched the senator and his wife mingle with the crowd, careful not to present herself too early.
00:08:55.919 --> 00:08:58.960
First impressions are everything, she told herself.
00:08:59.519 --> 00:09:03.840
In between hellos and handshakes, the senator's wife and Emily's eyes met.
00:09:04.559 --> 00:09:12.240
When they did, her blue eyes widened slightly, and her red lips peeled back into a smile, revealing perfect white teeth.
00:09:13.039 --> 00:09:15.360
Emily smiled and raised her hand.
00:09:16.000 --> 00:09:21.519
The senator's wife went back to greeting guests as her and her husband worked their way through the crowd.
00:09:21.919 --> 00:09:25.440
Emily saw their gaze return to her more than once.
00:09:26.720 --> 00:09:30.399
Emily took another sip of champagne and realized it was empty.
00:09:30.799 --> 00:09:33.600
The staff member noticed and offered to take it.
00:09:33.919 --> 00:09:35.919
She handed the empty glass to him.
00:09:36.080 --> 00:09:38.960
He traded it for another glass of champagne.
00:09:39.600 --> 00:09:42.720
Emily watched the senator and his wife move closer.
00:09:43.360 --> 00:09:46.639
She began to inch her way through the crowd.
00:09:47.039 --> 00:09:52.159
When Senator Whitaker and Emily locked eyes, he extended his hand and smiled.
00:09:52.480 --> 00:09:54.879
Emily felt his wife's eyes on her.
00:09:55.200 --> 00:09:56.399
Thank you for coming.
00:09:56.559 --> 00:09:59.440
I don't think I've seen you before, he said.
00:09:59.759 --> 00:10:02.799
I'm Emily Tharp from the Philadelphia Inquirer.
00:10:03.120 --> 00:10:06.320
Ah, yes, he said, waving his finger.
00:10:06.559 --> 00:10:12.639
Let me just greet the rest of the guests, and I promise I will sit down with you somewhere quieter than my main hall, he said.
00:10:13.039 --> 00:10:13.919
That sounds great.
00:10:14.000 --> 00:10:15.840
Thank you, Senator Whitaker.
00:10:16.080 --> 00:10:19.679
He nodded his head and continued working his way through the crowd.
00:10:20.000 --> 00:10:21.759
His wife stayed.
00:10:22.159 --> 00:10:27.200
Emily turned and the two stared at each other a moment before the woman extended her hand.
00:10:28.159 --> 00:10:29.360
I'm Evelyn.
00:10:29.600 --> 00:10:34.799
Nice to meet you, Emily, she said, smiling with her chin tucked toward her chest.
00:10:35.519 --> 00:10:41.679
Emily took her hand and noticed Evelyn's grip was unusually strong, but her hand looked relaxed.
00:10:42.080 --> 00:10:43.840
Her nails were crimson.
00:10:44.639 --> 00:10:46.080
Nice to meet you as well, Mrs.
00:10:46.159 --> 00:10:46.960
Whitaker.
00:10:47.440 --> 00:10:49.600
Please, call me Evelyn.
00:10:50.240 --> 00:10:53.759
Evelyn held Emily's hand a moment and stared down at her arm.
00:10:54.320 --> 00:10:56.240
You have great veins.
00:10:56.960 --> 00:10:58.559
Emily looked up.
00:10:59.200 --> 00:11:02.240
Evelyn's eyes met hers and she smiled.
00:11:02.559 --> 00:11:04.559
Sorry, I used to be a nurse.
00:11:04.799 --> 00:11:05.840
Old habit.
00:11:06.320 --> 00:11:07.519
Emily laughed.
00:11:07.759 --> 00:11:09.440
My mother was a nurse.
00:11:09.840 --> 00:11:11.519
Evelyn tilted her head.
00:11:11.840 --> 00:11:12.799
Is that so?
00:11:13.039 --> 00:11:17.919
Tell me I'm not the only one who notices when people have good veins, Evelyn said, smiling.
00:11:18.240 --> 00:11:19.919
Where are you from, Emily?
00:11:20.240 --> 00:11:23.360
Emily chuckled and glanced down at the marble floor.
00:11:23.679 --> 00:11:28.399
She could see the shadows of all the guests moving around in the reflection off the marble.
00:11:28.720 --> 00:11:32.240
But the marble showed nothing where Evelyn stood.
00:11:33.279 --> 00:11:35.840
Trigger the light, Emily thought.
00:11:36.240 --> 00:11:40.000
She looked up and realized Evelyn was still waiting for an answer.
00:11:40.399 --> 00:11:41.519
Oh, I'm sorry.
00:11:41.600 --> 00:11:43.440
I'm actually from Georgia originally.
00:11:43.679 --> 00:11:45.759
I moved to Philly when I was fifteen.
00:11:46.559 --> 00:11:51.519
I thought I heard a slight southern twang in that voice, Evelyn said, laughing.
00:11:51.919 --> 00:11:54.799
It slips out every now and again, Emily said.
00:11:55.360 --> 00:11:58.879
They laughed, and Evelyn caught her husband's gaze from the crowd.
00:11:59.200 --> 00:12:00.799
She looked back at Emily.
00:12:01.519 --> 00:12:05.600
Well, I have to get back to greeting the guests, but let's chat later.
00:12:05.840 --> 00:12:08.399
I want to hear more about Philly, she said.
00:12:08.879 --> 00:12:10.159
Emily smiled.
00:12:10.399 --> 00:12:11.840
Sounds great.
00:12:12.399 --> 00:12:14.879
Evelyn winked and turned around.
00:12:15.279 --> 00:12:18.080
Emily watched her return to her husband.
00:12:18.480 --> 00:12:21.120
Warmth crept up her neck and into her cheeks.
00:12:21.360 --> 00:12:23.840
She realized she was holding her breath.
00:12:24.480 --> 00:12:29.039
She glanced around as if someone would notice and forced another sip of champagne.
00:12:29.840 --> 00:12:35.039
She stood about the crowd, holding onto her half glass of champagne so she'd blend in easier.
00:12:35.440 --> 00:12:37.840
She watched everyone converse.
00:12:38.480 --> 00:12:43.840
For such a rundown town, these people were lively, she thought.
00:12:44.080 --> 00:12:48.080
No one else seemed to notice her as she floated at the edge of the crowd.
00:12:48.399 --> 00:12:52.799
She checked the time on her phone and knew her son would be going to bed in a few minutes.
00:12:53.039 --> 00:12:55.519
She wondered if he asked for her tonight.
00:12:56.080 --> 00:12:58.799
A dull ache formed in her chest.
00:12:59.759 --> 00:13:04.320
She glanced up at the balcony, and her eyes scanned the doors that led into the bowels of the manor.
00:13:05.039 --> 00:13:10.399
They were all closed, and the light didn't reach them the way it did everything on the first floor.
00:13:11.039 --> 00:13:18.159
It seemed odd to her how bright and lively the first floor was and how quiet and dark the second floor was.
00:13:19.600 --> 00:13:24.240
I'm sure they host all the time and keep the second floor to themselves, she thought.
00:13:24.559 --> 00:13:28.480
Senator Whitaker appeared in front of her with a wide grin.
00:13:29.279 --> 00:13:33.039
Hi, Senator Whitaker, she said, caught off guard.
00:13:33.679 --> 00:13:35.279
Are we ready for that interview?
00:13:35.519 --> 00:13:36.639
He asked.
00:13:37.279 --> 00:13:40.559
Emily held up her notebook and her half glass of champagne.
00:13:40.799 --> 00:13:43.440
I'm ready, she said with a laugh.
00:13:44.240 --> 00:13:47.600
No, you're not, he said, his expression flat.
00:13:48.320 --> 00:13:50.159
Emily stared at him.
00:13:50.480 --> 00:13:55.039
He took the champagne and dropped it on a server plate as one of the staff walked by.
00:13:55.759 --> 00:13:59.519
Then he grabbed a full glass of champagne and handed it to her.
00:13:59.840 --> 00:14:02.240
Now you're ready, he said, smiling.
00:14:02.559 --> 00:14:03.759
Come with me.
00:14:04.480 --> 00:14:07.679
Emily followed him through the crowd and up the staircase.
00:14:07.919 --> 00:14:10.000
Emily saw him look at Evelyn.
00:14:10.240 --> 00:14:12.559
She acknowledged him and went back to mingling.
00:14:13.039 --> 00:14:17.919
She glanced once at Emily as Emily ascended the staircase behind Senator Whitaker.
00:14:18.720 --> 00:14:22.399
Senator Whitaker signaled to another man dressed in a dark suit.
00:14:22.639 --> 00:14:25.039
The man tailed them up the stairs.
00:14:26.000 --> 00:14:29.919
They turned right and climbed another short set of stairs to the balcony.
00:14:30.240 --> 00:14:34.159
Senator Whitaker opened the first door on the landing and it creaked open.
00:14:35.120 --> 00:14:40.320
The hallway was sparsely lit, and the walls were covered with a dark de masse wallpaper.
00:14:41.600 --> 00:14:44.000
He led her down the hall without speaking.
00:14:44.799 --> 00:14:47.360
Then he turned and opened a large wooden door.
00:14:48.399 --> 00:14:51.039
He stepped in and gestured for her to follow.
00:14:52.000 --> 00:14:56.639
Emily looked back, and the man she figured was his bodyguard stood right behind her.
00:14:57.279 --> 00:15:01.120
She moved quickly into the room and it opened up into a large study.
00:15:01.919 --> 00:15:07.039
A large stone fireplace on one wall with elegant chairs and a couch around it.
00:15:07.519 --> 00:15:10.159
The other wall was covered with bookshelves.
00:15:10.799 --> 00:15:14.000
Books were stacked so that no shelf had empty space.
00:15:14.639 --> 00:15:19.600
A heavy cherry-colored maple desk sat at the back of the room in front of a large window.
00:15:20.559 --> 00:15:22.879
The dark pressed against the glass.
00:15:23.600 --> 00:15:29.679
Please take a seat, Miss Thor, Senator Whitaker said, gesturing to one of the chairs.
00:15:31.120 --> 00:15:32.240
Emily sat.
00:15:32.639 --> 00:15:35.519
Senator Whitaker glanced at his security guard.
00:15:35.840 --> 00:15:37.279
We're okay here, Glenn.
00:15:37.440 --> 00:15:40.799
You can wait in the hall, he said as he took the chair across from her.
00:15:41.039 --> 00:15:42.159
The man nodded.
00:15:42.480 --> 00:15:45.440
He stepped out into the hall and closed the door without a word.
00:15:46.480 --> 00:15:50.080
When the door shut, there was a long moment of silence.
00:15:51.600 --> 00:15:54.879
They both seemed to wait for the other to speak first.
00:15:55.840 --> 00:16:00.639
Senator Whitaker crossed one leg over the other and smiled without teeth.
00:16:02.159 --> 00:16:04.399
So, where do we begin?
00:16:04.799 --> 00:16:05.840
He asked.
00:16:06.879 --> 00:16:09.679
Emily held her notebook up and readded her pen.
00:16:10.399 --> 00:16:13.039
Well, Senator Whitaker, she began.
00:16:13.519 --> 00:16:20.399
The town of Harmony is nothing short of a medical miracle, despite its public funding challenges.
00:16:20.960 --> 00:16:23.440
Senator Whitaker's grin returned.
00:16:24.559 --> 00:16:34.159
This county has had no deaths from heart disease in the last three years, no major illnesses, and people here regularly live into their 90s.
00:16:34.639 --> 00:16:35.679
So how do you do it?
00:16:35.919 --> 00:16:36.960
Emily asked.
00:16:37.279 --> 00:16:48.159
Well, Emily, first I want to say thank you for noticing the success we've had in keeping our constituents healthy and living longer, even in the face of a shortage of public funding.
00:16:48.480 --> 00:16:54.879
And while I would love to take credit for this myself, he said laughing, our town doctor, Dr.
00:16:54.960 --> 00:16:57.679
Samuel Hayes, is a true professional.
00:16:57.919 --> 00:17:03.679
He takes great care of everyone in this town, and he's the only general practitioner in the county, might I add.
00:17:04.240 --> 00:17:04.799
Has Dr.
00:17:04.880 --> 00:17:07.680
Hayes published any research on the town's health outcomes?
00:17:08.640 --> 00:17:11.599
Not yet, but I do know he's working on it.
00:17:11.920 --> 00:17:16.160
I read reports of people living in the triple digits as far back as the 50s.
00:17:16.400 --> 00:17:18.640
How long has this been documented?
00:17:19.759 --> 00:17:22.720
Senator Whitaker smiled and nodded slowly.
00:17:23.680 --> 00:17:29.279
We've had a few residents historically who have lived to surpass the centennial mark, yes.
00:17:29.599 --> 00:17:30.000
Dr.
00:17:30.079 --> 00:17:35.279
Hayes is a second-generation physician, and his father before him was a town doctor as well.
00:17:36.000 --> 00:17:40.640
So this has been going on for longer than anyone alive today can remember.
00:17:41.519 --> 00:17:44.319
Have outside researchers studied this town?
00:17:45.599 --> 00:17:48.480
Senator Whitaker shifted in his seat.
00:17:49.759 --> 00:17:50.079
No.
00:17:50.720 --> 00:17:52.720
And we would like to keep it that way.
00:17:53.519 --> 00:17:56.559
We're a small, tight-knit community.
00:17:56.880 --> 00:18:04.640
I realize what's happening here is extraordinary, but we don't want that success to destroy the culture that we've built here over many decades.
00:18:05.680 --> 00:18:06.640
That is why Dr.
00:18:06.720 --> 00:18:09.200
Hayes is working on publishing his findings.
00:18:10.319 --> 00:18:14.400
Do residents follow any particular diet or lifestyle?
00:18:15.279 --> 00:18:17.599
Well, diet is discussed between Dr.
00:18:17.680 --> 00:18:21.839
Hayes and his patients, but I'm not aware of any specific diet.
00:18:22.160 --> 00:18:24.880
Like I said, we're a tight-knit community.
00:18:25.039 --> 00:18:28.799
We all care for one another, and we're strong in our faith.
00:18:29.200 --> 00:18:32.960
Father Callahan's congregation makes up the entire town.
00:18:34.000 --> 00:18:35.599
Emily leaned in.
00:18:36.319 --> 00:18:38.480
How often do people leave Harmony?
00:18:39.759 --> 00:18:41.920
Senator Whitaker, better days.
00:18:43.039 --> 00:18:43.920
Not often.
00:18:44.160 --> 00:18:46.880
This town is like one big family.
00:18:48.400 --> 00:18:50.240
Thank you, Senator Whitaker.
00:18:50.559 --> 00:18:53.599
I have just one more question, she said.
00:18:54.400 --> 00:18:56.799
She tapped her pen against her notebook.
00:18:57.680 --> 00:19:01.920
Over the last three years, I've noticed a trend that I find rather concerning.
00:19:02.160 --> 00:19:09.839
The health and wellness of your constituents is extraordinary, but there have been numerous reports of people passing through the town going missing.
00:19:10.559 --> 00:19:12.640
None of them have ever been located.
00:19:13.279 --> 00:19:15.680
Is Harmony's police looking into this?
00:19:17.759 --> 00:19:20.079
Senator Whitaker stared forward.
00:19:20.559 --> 00:19:22.319
His expression flickered.
00:19:23.440 --> 00:19:27.039
He smiled, but his eyes remained fixed on Emily's.
00:19:28.000 --> 00:19:30.960
He shifted his weight in his seat again and cleared his throat.
00:19:32.000 --> 00:19:38.960
Well, Miss Thorpe, I can assure you that our police department takes every missing person's case seriously.
00:19:39.279 --> 00:19:45.519
And they put all the resources at their disposal to make sure people are safe, whether they're a member of this town or not.
00:19:46.960 --> 00:19:49.920
Have they made any progress on any of the investigations?
00:19:50.160 --> 00:19:51.039
Emily asked.
00:19:51.920 --> 00:19:53.759
She flipped a page of our notebook.
00:19:54.400 --> 00:19:59.759
I've counted over 60 people who have gone missing in this county over the last few years.
00:20:01.440 --> 00:20:05.759
Whitaker's smile never faltered, but his eyes changed.
00:20:06.880 --> 00:20:10.400
I suppose you'll have to ask Chief of Police Bratton about that.
00:20:10.880 --> 00:20:14.720
I'm not privy to active investigations of our police department.
00:20:16.079 --> 00:20:17.839
The two stared at each other.
00:20:18.480 --> 00:20:23.920
For a moment it was silent, with only the sound of logs popping in the fireplace.
00:20:24.799 --> 00:20:31.119
Emily watched the orange glow of the fire dance on one side of Senator Whitaker's face while the other side was dark.
00:20:32.400 --> 00:20:34.160
The light didn't reach his eyes.
00:20:39.039 --> 00:20:40.720
He said, his voice low.
00:20:41.680 --> 00:20:43.680
A log in the fire popped again.
00:20:44.799 --> 00:20:46.160
Emily swallowed.
00:20:46.960 --> 00:20:49.839
Well, thank you for your time, Senator Whittaker.
00:20:51.440 --> 00:20:55.680
She glanced down and realized then how tightly she was gripping her notebook.
00:20:57.039 --> 00:20:59.359
You are quite welcome, he said.
00:21:00.640 --> 00:21:03.200
He sat completely still for a moment.
00:21:04.000 --> 00:21:07.039
Emily couldn't tell if he was staring at her or through her.
00:21:08.240 --> 00:21:10.960
Then he uncrossed his legs and rose from his chair.
00:21:12.319 --> 00:21:13.920
Emily stood slowly.
00:21:15.440 --> 00:21:17.519
Senator Whitaker across the room.
00:21:18.319 --> 00:21:21.680
Emily followed behind, but not too close.
00:21:23.200 --> 00:21:26.559
He opened the door and gestured for her to enter the hallway.
00:21:27.440 --> 00:21:31.599
His bodyguard stood just beyond the threshold with his hands clasped in front of him.
00:21:33.359 --> 00:21:34.640
His face was dark.
00:21:35.519 --> 00:21:36.880
She didn't look up at him.
00:21:38.160 --> 00:21:42.000
Thank you, she said again, glancing back at Senator Whitaker.
00:21:43.599 --> 00:21:44.720
He didn't answer.
00:21:45.759 --> 00:21:47.119
She looked at Glenn.
00:21:47.759 --> 00:21:49.759
He didn't move as she walked past.
00:21:50.720 --> 00:21:56.000
In the corner of her vision, she saw Senator Whitaker's figure enter the hallway behind her.
00:21:56.799 --> 00:21:59.759
But as she walked down the dark hallway, she didn't hear.
00:22:00.240 --> 00:22:01.200
Any footsteps.
00:22:02.480 --> 00:22:06.559
She thought she felt a single hot breath on the back of her neck.
00:22:08.400 --> 00:22:10.720
She swallowed again and it made her cough.
00:22:11.200 --> 00:22:12.559
The sound echoed.
00:22:14.160 --> 00:22:16.960
She kept moving, hearing nothing behind her.
00:22:17.440 --> 00:22:21.599
As she drew closer to the door, she could feel it.
00:22:22.319 --> 00:22:23.519
Not breath.
00:22:24.559 --> 00:22:25.519
A presence.
00:22:26.559 --> 00:22:28.480
It pressed against her back.
00:22:29.920 --> 00:22:32.799
Her hands shook as she reached for the doorknob.
00:22:33.440 --> 00:22:38.160
When she opened the door, the noise and the light from the main hall washed over her.
00:22:39.119 --> 00:22:42.720
She turned and Senator Whitaker stood right behind her.
00:22:43.440 --> 00:22:46.160
His lips peeled back into a grin.
00:22:47.680 --> 00:22:49.519
She froze for a moment.
00:22:51.039 --> 00:22:55.279
He raised a hand as if giving her permission to walk into the main hall.
00:22:56.960 --> 00:23:00.160
She stepped through the threshold and let out a breath.
00:23:00.559 --> 00:23:04.160
Still, her shoulders felt tight and her knees felt watery.
00:23:04.880 --> 00:23:07.599
I need to get out of here, she thought.
00:23:07.920 --> 00:23:10.720
She stepped off the landing and walked down the stairs.
00:23:10.960 --> 00:23:14.480
She saw Levelyn watching her as she descended the staircase.
00:23:14.799 --> 00:23:17.039
She didn't make eye contact.
00:23:17.359 --> 00:23:20.079
She weaved through the crowd and nearly made it.
00:23:20.400 --> 00:23:23.680
Then a hand with crimson nails gripped her wrist.
00:23:24.559 --> 00:23:28.480
Her breath cut short and her eyes went wide and her nostrils flared.
00:23:29.039 --> 00:23:33.519
Evelyn stood there, smiling through perfect white teeth.
00:23:34.640 --> 00:23:35.440
Hey there.
00:23:35.599 --> 00:23:36.720
Where are you going?
00:23:37.519 --> 00:23:38.880
Emily stuttered.
00:23:39.359 --> 00:23:40.640
I have to get on the road.
00:23:40.880 --> 00:23:42.319
Long drive home.
00:23:43.200 --> 00:23:45.359
Evelyn's grip remained.
00:23:45.759 --> 00:23:47.039
Oh, come on.
00:23:47.279 --> 00:23:49.200
The party's just getting started.
00:23:49.839 --> 00:23:52.000
I have to go, Emily said.
00:23:52.640 --> 00:23:57.119
She tried to keep moving, but Evelyn's hand remained wrapped around her wrist.
00:23:57.519 --> 00:23:58.799
Is everything all right?
00:23:59.039 --> 00:24:00.880
Did my husband offend you?
00:24:01.200 --> 00:24:04.000
He can be so stubborn, Evelyn said.
00:24:04.480 --> 00:24:06.160
No, no, everything is fine.
00:24:06.319 --> 00:24:07.759
I just have to get home.
00:24:07.920 --> 00:24:09.759
My son has school tomorrow.
00:24:10.079 --> 00:24:12.160
Evelyn stepped in front of her.
00:24:12.640 --> 00:24:15.119
Listen, I know my husband.
00:24:15.279 --> 00:24:16.880
I know he can be an ass.
00:24:17.279 --> 00:24:20.880
He hates bad press, Evelyn said, laughing.
00:24:21.200 --> 00:24:23.119
Let me try to make it up to you.
00:24:23.359 --> 00:24:26.160
She pointed at the champagne glass in her hand.
00:24:26.720 --> 00:24:32.480
This isn't the good stuff, she said, placing the glass on a serving tray as a staff member walked by.
00:24:32.880 --> 00:24:35.359
I want you to try our actual wine.
00:24:35.839 --> 00:24:37.279
Really, it's okay.
00:24:37.440 --> 00:24:38.720
I don't, please.
00:24:39.359 --> 00:24:40.319
I insist.
00:24:40.799 --> 00:24:42.559
It's the least I can do.
00:24:43.359 --> 00:24:45.279
Emily forced a smile.
00:24:46.079 --> 00:24:46.960
Alright then.
00:24:47.119 --> 00:24:49.359
One glass of wine sounds nice.
00:24:49.759 --> 00:24:51.839
Evelyn's grin widened.
00:24:52.480 --> 00:24:53.359
Lovely.
00:24:54.240 --> 00:24:56.079
Evelyn led her through the crowd.
00:24:56.240 --> 00:24:57.759
She pushed open a door.
00:24:58.000 --> 00:25:04.240
Emily looked back and saw several patrons in the crowd watching her as Evelyn closed the door behind them.
00:25:04.559 --> 00:25:07.519
She turned around and the room opened out before her.
00:25:08.160 --> 00:25:11.599
A massive dining hall with grey and black marble flooring.
00:25:11.839 --> 00:25:16.880
A long table stretched across the room, and at the other end sat another stone fireplace.
00:25:17.200 --> 00:25:18.480
It was unlit.
00:25:18.640 --> 00:25:21.759
Large windows lined the left wall as they walked through.
00:25:22.400 --> 00:25:25.359
Emily could see only darkness through them.
00:25:26.319 --> 00:25:30.960
They crossed the dining hall and Evelyn opened another door that led into another dark hallway.
00:25:32.000 --> 00:25:33.599
Emily hesitated.
00:25:34.079 --> 00:25:35.440
Evelyn turned.
00:25:35.759 --> 00:25:37.839
Come on, it's just this way.
00:25:38.640 --> 00:25:41.200
She waved a hand for her to follow.
00:25:41.759 --> 00:25:43.759
Emily followed her down the hall.
00:25:44.400 --> 00:25:48.319
Candles lined the right side of the wall and they flickered as they passed.
00:25:48.880 --> 00:25:53.039
Emily saw her own shadow stretch and move along the left wall.
00:25:53.519 --> 00:25:55.680
Evelyn walked in front of her.
00:25:56.000 --> 00:26:00.400
As Evelyn passed the light, there was no shadow.
00:26:01.440 --> 00:26:05.839
Emily dropped her gaze, her heart intent on giving her away.
00:26:07.039 --> 00:26:13.440
They reached the door at the end of the hall, and when Evelyn opened it, a black chasm opened before them.
00:26:14.319 --> 00:26:16.160
Emily stood frozen.
00:26:16.960 --> 00:26:22.000
Evelyn reached in the doorway and flipped a switch, and a light came on at the base of the stairs.
00:26:22.960 --> 00:26:26.079
Wait till you see our wine cellar, Evelyn said.
00:26:27.279 --> 00:26:28.960
Emily hesitated.
00:26:29.680 --> 00:26:32.160
Evelyn put a hand on her shoulder.
00:26:32.799 --> 00:26:35.519
You can have a glass of whatever you want.
00:26:36.960 --> 00:26:40.799
Evelyn started down the stairs and Emily didn't move.
00:26:41.279 --> 00:26:44.400
When Evelyn didn't hear behind her, she turned.
00:26:44.880 --> 00:26:46.240
Come on, sweetheart.
00:26:46.400 --> 00:26:47.599
It's okay.
00:26:47.920 --> 00:26:49.440
She grabbed her hand.
00:26:49.920 --> 00:26:50.880
Trust me.
00:26:51.200 --> 00:26:52.480
It's worth it.
00:26:52.960 --> 00:26:55.680
Evelyn winked and turned back around.
00:26:56.400 --> 00:26:58.880
Emily followed her down the stairs.
00:26:59.519 --> 00:27:01.839
The basement walls were made of stone.
00:27:02.079 --> 00:27:05.839
The left side of the room was lined with a mahogany wine shelf.
00:27:06.400 --> 00:27:09.440
Rows of reds and whites filled each shelf.
00:27:09.759 --> 00:27:16.799
On the other end of the room, two massive barrels lay on their side with a brass spigot jutting out near the bottom of each barrel.
00:27:17.519 --> 00:27:21.119
Evelyn walked down the wine shelf, scanning each label.
00:27:21.759 --> 00:27:24.400
Emily turned her head and looked behind her.
00:27:25.200 --> 00:27:27.519
The rest of the basement was dark.
00:27:28.319 --> 00:27:30.319
Evelyn looked back at Emily.
00:27:31.039 --> 00:27:32.799
Red or white?
00:27:33.680 --> 00:27:34.319
White.
00:27:34.880 --> 00:27:37.359
Evelyn went back to scanning the shelf.
00:27:37.920 --> 00:27:43.039
A few moments later, she slid a bottle of Farnienti Chardonnay from the shelf.
00:27:44.480 --> 00:27:48.480
We're lucky my husband doesn't like whites, Evelyn said with a wink.
00:27:49.200 --> 00:27:53.599
She crossed the room and opened a mahogany cabinet against the far wall.
00:27:54.079 --> 00:27:57.920
She reached in and grabbed two crystal wine glasses and a bottle opener.
00:27:58.559 --> 00:28:00.640
Can you hold these for a minute, sweetheart?
00:28:00.880 --> 00:28:02.799
She held out the glasses.
00:28:03.039 --> 00:28:06.799
Emily took them, but all she could think about was getting in her car.
00:28:08.720 --> 00:28:13.200
Evelyn popped the top of the wine and took one of the glasses from Emily and filled it.
00:28:13.519 --> 00:28:15.759
She handed it back and filled the other.
00:28:16.000 --> 00:28:19.119
She set the bottle down and held out her glass.
00:28:19.599 --> 00:28:22.240
Cheers, Evelyn said, smiling.
00:28:23.359 --> 00:28:25.359
Emily raised her glass.
00:28:25.599 --> 00:28:29.599
She took a sip, and it was cold and bright on her tongue.
00:28:29.839 --> 00:28:35.440
Notes of lemon and pear lingered beneath something richer she couldn't identify.
00:28:36.480 --> 00:28:43.200
Honeydew, lemon zest, and toasted almond, Evelyn said after taking a sip.
00:28:43.759 --> 00:28:47.039
Emily nodded as though she could taste all three.
00:28:47.680 --> 00:28:51.359
Emily enjoyed the wine, but she drank it quickly.
00:28:52.400 --> 00:28:56.480
She didn't see the shadow that emerged from the darkness behind her.
00:28:57.680 --> 00:29:02.160
It moved slowly, like an animal stalking prey.
00:29:03.599 --> 00:29:08.079
When it was right behind her, she thought she could hear breathing.
00:29:09.359 --> 00:29:13.039
That's when the smile faded from Evelyn's face.
00:29:19.119 --> 00:29:24.000
Emily's eyes widened and she went to turn, and something crashed into the side of her head.
00:29:24.319 --> 00:29:29.279
She hit the floor and the world went black before she heard the glass shatter as it hit the floor.
00:29:32.400 --> 00:29:35.359
When she woke again, everything was black.
00:29:36.480 --> 00:29:38.799
Her head throbbed that she felt dizzy.
00:29:39.839 --> 00:29:42.319
She could hear muffled voices.
00:29:43.519 --> 00:29:46.960
She strained to listen, but couldn't make out what they were saying.
00:29:49.839 --> 00:29:53.519
She tried to move, but something held her wrists and ankles in place.
00:29:55.039 --> 00:30:00.000
Her eyes adjusted, and she could see she was standing upright in a stone sarcophagus.
00:30:01.920 --> 00:30:07.359
A strained symbol she didn't recognize was etched into the stone on the inside of the sarcophagus lid.
00:30:08.640 --> 00:30:10.319
Her breathing became rapid.
00:30:11.839 --> 00:30:14.640
Her temples pulsed and her eyes scanned the dark.
00:30:15.920 --> 00:30:18.559
She pulled at her bindings, but they wouldn't give.
00:30:20.079 --> 00:30:21.519
Then the door opened.
00:30:22.960 --> 00:30:26.240
Standing there was Evelyn and Senator Whitaker.
00:30:26.960 --> 00:30:32.880
And behind them, Father Callahan and several faces she recognized from the party upstairs.
00:30:34.480 --> 00:30:35.759
Evelyn smiled.
00:30:36.799 --> 00:30:40.480
Father Callahan held his hands together as if in prayer.
00:30:41.920 --> 00:30:43.839
Senator Whitaker stared forward.
00:30:45.680 --> 00:30:47.279
Evelyn walked toward her.
00:30:47.759 --> 00:30:51.759
The sound of her heels clacking on stone echoed in the basement.
00:30:53.359 --> 00:30:56.319
She brought her face within inches of Emily.
00:30:57.920 --> 00:30:59.519
Emily shrank and turned her head.
00:31:01.119 --> 00:31:03.920
Glenn Evelyn said, looking back.
00:31:05.279 --> 00:31:06.480
Glenn stepped forward.
00:31:07.759 --> 00:31:09.200
Untire, please, love.
00:31:10.559 --> 00:31:11.759
She glanced at Emily.
00:31:12.640 --> 00:31:13.920
She won't go anywhere.
00:31:15.119 --> 00:31:18.799
Glenn looked at Senator Whitaker, then back at Emily.
00:31:19.359 --> 00:31:22.000
Are we sure we now, please?
00:31:22.240 --> 00:31:24.640
Evelyn said, her voice firm.
00:31:26.160 --> 00:31:29.680
Glenn dropped his gaze and walked over to the sarcophagus.
00:31:30.559 --> 00:31:36.799
When he moved, he revealed a little boy, no older than Emily's son, standing in the group.
00:31:37.279 --> 00:31:39.599
His skin was pale as bone.
00:31:40.240 --> 00:31:43.519
The light reflected off his dark eyes like glass.
00:31:44.559 --> 00:31:52.000
His one leg was significantly atrophied, the muscle wasted down to nothing and twisted inward at the knee.
00:31:52.400 --> 00:31:57.119
He stood entirely on his good leg so that his bad leg didn't touch the floor.
00:31:57.920 --> 00:32:01.599
One shoulder sat lower than the other and collapsed inward.
00:32:02.720 --> 00:32:06.400
The boy's clothes belonged to another age.
00:32:07.039 --> 00:32:14.559
Knickerbacher's balloon beneath his jacket, long socks reached his knees, and a flat cap shadowed his pale face.
00:32:15.599 --> 00:32:19.119
His black bow tie sat neatly at his throat.
00:32:20.559 --> 00:32:24.400
He looked like he had stepped out of a photograph forgotten in an attic.
00:32:26.160 --> 00:32:30.319
Glenn reached the sarcophagus and undid the binds on Emily's wrist first.
00:32:31.119 --> 00:32:34.319
She rubbed her wrist and Glenn untied her ankles.
00:32:34.640 --> 00:32:38.559
Her heels were gone, and she stepped out of the sarcophagus barefoot.
00:32:38.960 --> 00:32:41.359
The stone under her feet was cold.
00:32:42.160 --> 00:32:43.519
She looked up.
00:32:44.079 --> 00:32:45.599
Evelyn stared at her.
00:32:45.839 --> 00:32:48.319
Her eyes looked black in the dim light.
00:32:49.039 --> 00:32:51.920
Emily couldn't take her eyes off the boy.
00:32:52.880 --> 00:32:54.240
He didn't move.
00:32:54.559 --> 00:32:56.720
His expression didn't change.
00:32:57.680 --> 00:33:01.680
Evelyn followed Emily's gaze and moved in front of the boy.
00:33:02.160 --> 00:33:04.640
Miss Bethany, Evelyn said.
00:33:04.960 --> 00:33:06.720
Could you please come forward?
00:33:07.039 --> 00:33:11.519
The crowd parted behind her, and a frail looking woman stepped forward.
00:33:12.000 --> 00:33:15.039
Her long grey hair nearly reached her waist.
00:33:15.519 --> 00:33:17.119
Her face was stone.
00:33:17.519 --> 00:33:21.119
Her stone eyes stared at Emily and didn't flicker.
00:33:22.000 --> 00:33:24.240
Her stone lips didn't twitch.
00:33:25.519 --> 00:33:28.559
Evelyn put a hand on the old woman's shoulder.
00:33:29.359 --> 00:33:33.599
The old woman looked at her, and the corners of her mouth turned upward.
00:33:34.880 --> 00:33:42.559
Miss Bethany was diagnosed with late-stage ovarian cancer over sixty years ago, Evelyn said.
00:33:43.839 --> 00:33:48.240
Evelyn's expression softened, and for a moment it looked like she might cry.
00:33:49.119 --> 00:33:51.119
She put a hand over her chest.
00:33:52.079 --> 00:33:53.920
She's cancer free today.
00:33:55.279 --> 00:33:58.319
Evelyn stepped out of the way and revealed the boy again.
00:33:59.200 --> 00:34:00.720
He hadn't moved.
00:34:01.039 --> 00:34:04.319
His eyes stared forward, but saw nothing.
00:34:04.880 --> 00:34:08.159
Evelyn put a hand on the boy's disfigured shoulder.
00:34:09.119 --> 00:34:12.159
Tommy's body was ravaged by polio.
00:34:13.199 --> 00:34:14.559
He's cured now.
00:34:15.440 --> 00:34:19.119
She rubbed a tender hand on the side of the boy's face.
00:34:20.639 --> 00:34:22.000
He didn't react.
00:34:23.519 --> 00:34:25.119
Evelyn looked at Emily.
00:34:26.480 --> 00:34:29.519
He looks like he's about your son's age, doesn't he?
00:34:30.800 --> 00:34:32.400
Emily stared at her.
00:34:33.360 --> 00:34:35.039
Evelyn walked forward.
00:34:36.239 --> 00:34:40.320
Tommy liked dinosaurs, just like Stephen does.
00:34:41.920 --> 00:34:44.239
Emily's breathing became rapid.
00:34:45.039 --> 00:34:46.960
How do you know my son's name?
00:34:48.159 --> 00:34:49.679
Evelyn smiled.
00:34:50.880 --> 00:34:54.239
Your mother doesn't have long, does she?
00:34:54.480 --> 00:34:55.440
She asked.
00:34:56.880 --> 00:35:01.360
Evelyn walked up to her until her face was only a foot away from Emily's.
00:35:02.559 --> 00:35:06.960
The way her breath rattled over the line hurt you, didn't it?
00:35:09.039 --> 00:35:10.480
Emily stuttered.
00:35:11.519 --> 00:35:14.800
Evelyn put both hands on Emily's shoulders.
00:35:16.159 --> 00:35:19.840
We can help her, she said, through a warm smile.
00:35:21.199 --> 00:35:24.159
You'll never lose her or Stephen.
00:35:25.280 --> 00:35:27.199
Senator Whitaker stepped forward.
00:35:28.079 --> 00:35:29.360
His face was tight.
00:35:30.320 --> 00:35:31.599
But there's a cost.
00:35:33.760 --> 00:35:35.280
Evelyn moved to the side.
00:35:36.159 --> 00:35:38.719
Senator Whitaker closed the distance.
00:35:40.000 --> 00:35:42.400
Those disappearances you mentioned.
00:35:42.960 --> 00:35:44.639
They were mostly drifters.
00:35:45.039 --> 00:35:46.800
Many had no family.
00:35:47.920 --> 00:35:51.119
But I remember every one of their names.
00:35:52.000 --> 00:35:55.039
They are incredibly special to us.
00:35:56.480 --> 00:35:58.000
What did you do to them?
00:35:58.320 --> 00:35:59.440
Emily asked.
00:35:59.760 --> 00:36:02.400
Senator Whitaker didn't answer.
00:36:03.280 --> 00:36:10.239
I can't have you going back to Philadelphia and spreading rumors about us, he said, his eyes narrowing.
00:36:10.960 --> 00:36:16.559
But we can offer you something no one else can, he said, looking at Glen.
00:36:17.840 --> 00:36:20.480
Glenn, bring out Billy.
00:36:21.840 --> 00:36:26.079
Glenn nodded and crossed the basement until he was swallowed by the dark.
00:36:26.639 --> 00:36:29.280
Emily heard a door open somewhere.
00:36:29.519 --> 00:36:32.079
Then chains dragging across stone.
00:36:33.119 --> 00:36:37.599
A man Emily didn't recognize emerged from the darkness, led by Glenn.
00:36:38.559 --> 00:36:40.480
His hair was long and matted.
00:36:41.039 --> 00:36:44.239
His beard covered his mouth and nearly touched his chest.
00:36:45.360 --> 00:36:48.000
Chains were locked around his ankles and wrists.
00:36:49.440 --> 00:36:51.519
Glenn led him to Senator Whitaker.
00:36:52.400 --> 00:36:55.119
Senator Whitaker put a hand on the man's shoulder.
00:36:56.719 --> 00:37:00.079
This is William, but his friends call him Billy.
00:37:04.000 --> 00:37:07.760
Billy has struggled with addiction his entire life.
00:37:08.079 --> 00:37:10.159
Senator Whitaker looked at Emily.
00:37:10.960 --> 00:37:13.360
Billy wants his life to mean something.
00:37:14.480 --> 00:37:18.079
Emily thought she saw the man smile under his beard.
00:37:19.360 --> 00:37:21.840
Glenn, he said, looking over.
00:37:22.800 --> 00:37:24.159
The washtub.
00:37:24.719 --> 00:37:28.159
Glenn slid an old wooden washtub in front of Billy.
00:37:28.639 --> 00:37:31.920
Senator Whitaker guided the man down to his knees.
00:37:32.320 --> 00:37:36.960
The sound the chains made against the stone floor made Emily's stomach lurch.
00:37:37.840 --> 00:37:40.559
Glenn pulled a blade from his waistband.
00:37:40.960 --> 00:37:46.400
The blade was made of bronze and had small, intricate carvings along the bridge.
00:37:46.719 --> 00:37:49.039
He handed it to Senator Whitaker.
00:37:50.000 --> 00:37:51.519
No, this is wrong.
00:37:51.760 --> 00:37:54.000
You can't do this, Emily said.
00:37:55.519 --> 00:37:57.599
Evelyn walked over to Emily.
00:37:58.000 --> 00:37:59.280
She reached up.
00:37:59.519 --> 00:38:01.119
Emily flinched.
00:38:01.679 --> 00:38:05.280
Evelyn grabbed a lock of Emily's hair and stroked it.
00:38:06.079 --> 00:38:08.559
It will be quick, sweetheart.
00:38:08.880 --> 00:38:11.039
Her expression softened.
00:38:12.000 --> 00:38:14.079
Emily's joints locked up.
00:38:14.320 --> 00:38:16.559
Sweat gathered at the base of her neck.
00:38:16.719 --> 00:38:19.119
Her fingers curled into her palms.
00:38:20.159 --> 00:38:24.320
Evelyn guided Emily across the basement until she was next to the man.
00:38:24.960 --> 00:38:29.519
The man looked up at her, and she could see in his eyes he was grinning.
00:38:30.800 --> 00:38:34.719
Evelyn grabbed the blade from her husband and placed it in Emily's hand.
00:38:35.360 --> 00:38:39.760
Emily recoiled and tried to drop the knife, but Evelyn's hand closed over hers.
00:38:40.800 --> 00:38:42.719
It'll feel cold at first.
00:38:42.960 --> 00:38:44.239
I'll panic a bit.
00:38:44.800 --> 00:38:47.679
Then he'll feel warm, and everything will fade.
00:38:48.559 --> 00:38:50.000
It won't last long.
00:38:51.039 --> 00:38:53.760
She rubbed Emily's head with a tender hand.
00:38:54.639 --> 00:38:56.719
It'll be okay, sweetheart.
00:38:57.840 --> 00:38:59.199
Emily whimpered.
00:39:00.159 --> 00:39:04.320
Evelyn guided her hand until the blade pressed against the man's throat.
00:39:05.599 --> 00:39:07.519
Emily opened her fingers.
00:39:08.559 --> 00:39:11.199
Evelyn closed them beneath her own.
00:39:12.320 --> 00:39:16.639
Emily tried to force her hand open again, but it wouldn't move.
00:39:17.679 --> 00:39:21.119
Billy looked up at her, not pleading.
00:39:22.079 --> 00:39:23.199
Not afraid.
00:39:24.880 --> 00:39:25.599
Waiting.
00:39:28.239 --> 00:39:29.920
Emily closed her eyes.
00:39:31.199 --> 00:39:32.320
One push.
00:39:32.639 --> 00:39:34.000
That's all it would take.
00:39:36.000 --> 00:39:38.719
She felt the blade slide across his throat.
00:39:40.079 --> 00:39:45.920
She tried to think of Stephen, but only the image of Billy's bearded smile flashed in her mind.
00:39:47.599 --> 00:39:50.480
Then a wet, choking sound filled her ears.
00:39:52.639 --> 00:39:54.239
She opened her eyes.
00:39:55.920 --> 00:39:58.880
Blood poured from his neck into the washtub.
00:39:59.440 --> 00:40:02.719
She could see his chest rising and falling rapidly.
00:40:03.199 --> 00:40:04.800
His eyes were bright.
00:40:05.679 --> 00:40:07.280
He was smiling.
00:40:08.880 --> 00:40:11.440
Then his expression slowly faded.
00:40:12.719 --> 00:40:14.480
His eyes went blank.
00:40:15.679 --> 00:40:21.119
Evelyn dipped a finger in the stream of blood and stuck it in Emily's open mouth before she could react.
00:40:21.360 --> 00:40:23.760
Emily spat it out and screamed.
00:40:24.000 --> 00:40:26.719
She jumped backward and raised the knife.
00:40:27.039 --> 00:40:31.840
Senator Whitaker dropped the man's head so that the front of his corpse leaned into the washtub.
00:40:32.480 --> 00:40:34.960
He held his hands up and walked toward Emily.
00:40:35.840 --> 00:40:40.719
He tried to soothe her, but Emily lunged forward and stuck the blade between his ribs.
00:40:41.039 --> 00:40:45.119
Senator Whitaker howled and fell to the ground, writhing in pain.
00:40:45.679 --> 00:40:48.000
Emily bolted for the stairs.
00:40:48.400 --> 00:40:50.880
Then a hand clamped around her wrist.
00:40:51.119 --> 00:40:55.199
She yanked her arm back and white hot pain exploded through her shoulder.
00:40:55.519 --> 00:40:58.400
Crimson nails raked the flesh in her forearm.
00:40:58.960 --> 00:41:00.719
Then her arm was free.
00:41:01.039 --> 00:41:02.639
She sprinted up the stairs.
00:41:02.800 --> 00:41:05.760
She glanced back and saw that none of them were pursuing her.
00:41:06.000 --> 00:41:10.159
She made it out of the basement and ran down the long hallway back to the dining room.
00:41:10.400 --> 00:41:13.920
She raced to the dining room and burst through the door into the main hall.
00:41:14.320 --> 00:41:17.119
The main hall was empty and dark.
00:41:17.440 --> 00:41:20.559
She ran toward the front door and fumbled with the lock.
00:41:20.800 --> 00:41:27.760
She looked back and saw an impossibly tall but skinny silhouette standing at the top of the staircase.
00:41:28.239 --> 00:41:30.960
Its features were shrouded in black.
00:41:32.079 --> 00:41:34.639
It slowly began to descend.
00:41:35.280 --> 00:41:40.639
She fought with the handle as the figure reached the landing and started crossing the room.
00:41:41.360 --> 00:41:42.719
She cried out.
00:41:43.199 --> 00:41:45.360
Then she got the latch on the door to give.
00:41:45.599 --> 00:41:48.079
She started to pull the heavy door open.
00:41:48.400 --> 00:41:50.159
The figure closed in.
00:41:51.440 --> 00:41:55.119
It was nearly on her when she slid the door open just enough.
00:41:55.360 --> 00:41:57.760
She grabbed her bag off the wall and slipped through.
00:41:58.639 --> 00:42:01.920
The figure stopped before it crossed the threshold of the door.
00:42:02.800 --> 00:42:06.800
Emily jumped in her car and rummaged through her purse until she found her keys.
00:42:07.039 --> 00:42:10.239
She stuck the key in the ignition and threw it in reverse.
00:42:10.639 --> 00:42:15.360
The car jerked backward and rumbled over the perfectly manicured grass.
00:42:15.760 --> 00:42:18.719
She shifted into drive and slammed on the gas pedal.
00:42:19.360 --> 00:42:22.880
The car peeled out and flew down the driveway and into the road.
00:42:23.360 --> 00:42:27.599
She raced through the town and didn't look back until she hit the main highway.
00:42:28.400 --> 00:42:30.880
She saw no one in her rear view.
00:42:32.000 --> 00:42:33.920
She looked at her phone.
00:42:34.400 --> 00:42:36.000
She had no service.
00:42:36.800 --> 00:42:40.639
Then the picture of her son playing at the park caught her eye.
00:42:41.119 --> 00:42:46.559
She barked out a short, breathless laugh that broke halfway through and collapsed into a sob.
00:42:47.519 --> 00:42:51.039
A sharp pain began to radiate from her arm.
00:42:51.920 --> 00:42:56.960
She glanced at where Evelyn had dug her nails into her forearm and tore through her skin.
00:42:57.360 --> 00:43:00.239
She let out a breath through her nose.
00:43:01.039 --> 00:43:02.719
Her eyes welled.
00:43:04.000 --> 00:43:06.719
She never felt so happy to be driving.
00:43:07.280 --> 00:43:10.639
Then she saw the wound on her arm was smaller.
00:43:12.239 --> 00:43:15.519
A strangled cry escaped her throat.
00:43:16.559 --> 00:43:19.599
She slammed her hands against the steering wheel.
00:43:20.239 --> 00:43:22.880
She picked up her phone and stared at her son.
00:43:23.599 --> 00:43:25.760
Tears streamed down her face.
00:43:27.199 --> 00:43:31.199
The sound of her mother's labored breathing echoed in her head.
00:43:32.960 --> 00:43:34.559
I can't go back.
00:43:36.159 --> 00:43:39.840
The side of her neck itched and she scratched it with two fingers.
00:43:40.719 --> 00:43:44.480
She wrapped her hand back around the steering wheel and saw blood smear.
00:43:45.840 --> 00:43:47.679
She flipped the visor down.
00:43:48.480 --> 00:43:53.760
She saw blood blossom from two distinct puncture wounds on the side of her neck.
00:43:55.840 --> 00:44:02.400
Her eyes stared forward at the painted lines on the highway flying by, but her mind was elsewhere.
00:44:02.719 --> 00:44:08.000
She glanced once more at her son and tossed her phone onto the floor of the passenger seat.
00:44:09.679 --> 00:44:12.079
Then she turned the car around.
00:44:12.960 --> 00:44:15.119
Thanks for listening to Watch the Dark.
00:44:15.280 --> 00:44:19.679
If you enjoyed tonight's story, follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts.
00:44:20.880 --> 00:44:24.159
Until next time, keep the fire lit.