The Grey Zone

by Fricksgirl_32

Summary:

“There’s a place just outside what we call real — a place where the world shifts when no one’s looking. Where time forgets to move forward, and memory becomes more than just the past. It can be found in the hush between heartbeats… in the static behind a favorite song… or in the fog that rolls in without warning. These stories don’t begin with a bang, or end with certainty. They linger. They echo. They belong to a place that can’t be mapped — only found. You’ve just crossed into…The Grey Zone.”

Notes:

All these stories will be stand alone one shots and will be labeled as episodes.

Also this series was inspired by the Twilight Zone and uses the same format as the show did with the classic intros and outros after each episode.

Chapter 1: Pilot- Smoke Screen

A winding mountain road. A man at peace or so he tells himself making a yearly pilgrimage to a place that no longer exists on any map. But nestled between memory and mist is a town untouched by time, and a woman who never aged a day past goodbye.

This is the final chapter of a promise made in silence… sealed in sorrow… and carried all the way into the Grey Zone.

The sun beamed down on the mountain side as a lone car weaved its way around the winding road, a single occupant inside the vehicle, top down allowing the sun to warm him yet the air kept him cool as he ascended up the mountain towards a place nestled within the rocky border.

Soft music played on the old radio while Howie kept his eyes on the road and the sky, looking. Neither his family nor bandmates knew about what he did other than he needed certain days blocked off from their schedule, it was always the same days each summer.

Howie smiled as he rounded another corner. There before him were the first hints his destination was near. Lowering the music and raising the top back over him, he saw the first cloud of fog begin to encase him like a friend welcoming him home.

As he drove further into the fog, the road behind him disappeared, covered and hidden once again. Despite his view being obstructed, he didn't worry about running off the road or missing a curve, he knew exactly where he was going.

The fog parted, revealing buildings of different shapes and sizes, each representing something different. Howie made his way into the town, behind him the fog had closed in. Moving down the main road, he turned right coming to a house parking in front of it. Stepping out, the young man felt a sense of calmness surrounding him, a sense of peace. He came out of his trance when he heard the front door of the house open and a voice pierce the air.

“HOWIE!”

He smiled watching a tall, dark haired woman running down the steps to the gate that wrapped around the house. He walked up onto the sidewalk, meeting her at the gate door getting an armful.

Howie pulled away looking into the eyes of his older sister. “It’s so good to see you.”

Caroline smiled and nodded. “Come in, I wanna hear all about what’s been going on since last summer.”

The siblings went inside, Howie making his way into the living room while Caroline went into the kitchen bringing back a couple of glasses of homemade lemonade, handing Howie his before sitting down beside him.

“So, tell me everything.” She smiled.

Taking a sip, he lowered his glass looking at her. He wasn’t sure where to start, so much had happened.

“Well, the guys and I are in the middle of a new residency.” Howie spoke, deciding he’d update her on the Boys first.

“Oh!” She perked up. “Is it at the same place?”

“No, it’s at the Sphere. It’s a huge round stadium.” Howie explained. “We are playing only on the weekends though.”

“Is that helping Brian’s voice?”

“Yes, it gives him the week to rest it, but he’s also seeing someone to help while we are out there as well.”

Howie continued to tell his sister about what was going on with everyone, how he’d been roped into playing golf more with Nick, Alex, and Brian making her giggle knowing how much of a sports person her brother wasn’t.

He also told her about Leigh and the boys, how James and Holden were growing up so fast and how Leigh had started her own business along with the new restaurant he had opened. He pulled out his phone and opened up his gallery so she could see the more recent photos he had taken of the boys.

“They are getting so big and Holden looks so much like Dad.” She beamed with pride seeing how much her nephews had grown.

“Yeah, he is.” Howie smiled softly, his eyes going soft for just a moment.

“Howie, you know you could only make one choice.” Caroline spoke softly, her hand laying on his back.

“No, I know and I don’t regret my choice, but my heart still aches seeing how much he looks like Dad.” Howie smiled softly, wiping his face and clearing his throat.

“Anyways, they are doing well. School starts soon.”

They talked well into the afternoon before heading out and walking down the sidewalk just to get out of the house. Howie looked up seeing the darkened clouds above. To many it simply looked like a storm had moved in not realizing there was so much more to the clouds and the fog around them.

Making it down to the small general store, they walked inside, Caroline heading down one of the aisles. Howie walked over to one of the other aisles looking at everything on the shelves. Despite the years he had been coming, it still amazed him how the stores always had what he wanted and what Caroline needed for their meals.

While his sister collected what she needed, Howie took everything in as he always did. Anything he could think of was there. Snacks, drinks, ingredients for his favorite meals. Caroline finished gathering what she needed before rejoining her brother.

“Anything else?” She asked.

“No, I think I’m good for now. We can always come back right?” He smiled.

“Mhmm, we can.” They headed out of the store and back down the road to the house.

The walk back to the house was silent like all their previous ones, simply enjoying the company of one another. But this silence was heavy, uneasy, and eerie, a feeling that sent fear through Caroline's body. Howie wasn't looking in awe and amazement like he did in past summers, his head was lowered, almost like he was sad over something.

Not only could she feel the shift but so could the fog as it rolled over the sidewalk swirling around their feet like a concerned and worried companion.

The older woman looked down feeling the warmth of the fog around her legs and sighed. “Howie, what's going on?”

As if his daze had been broken through, Howie finally realized the fog was swirling around them. He didn't say anything.

“Howie…Are..Are you ready to end your agreement with the fog? Have you finally been able to move on?”

Her brother's silence spoke louder than any words he could have said. The fog parted but stayed close while they made their way back to the house, the fog disappearing once Howie and Caroline were inside.

Howie bit his lip, watching his sister unloading the food to begin dinner. She could feel his eyes on her but she stayed focused on what she was doing.

Sitting down in the chair, Howie seemed to finally find his voice. “Caroline..I..I've been so conflicted this past year. Everything is…”

“Exactly what you wanted from the fog.” Caroline interrupted.

“I know it is, but it's..”

“It's getting old, repetitive. I noticed the shift last summer but I never thought..” She closed her eyes trying not to let the tears slip down her cheeks.

Howie stood up and walked over to her, his hands gently wrapping around her arms, her body shaking. He pulled her into his arms, Caroline finally breaking.

“I knew..I knew this was coming.”

The younger man closed his eyes, his own tears falling. “Please don't think it's not that I don't want to see you.”

Shaking her head she leaned back up wiping her face. “No, I know it's not.” She smiled through the tears. “You've finally moved on to where you don't need the fog and I truly am happy to know you've healed enough to move on.”

“And I'm truly grateful for all the summers I had with you that I wouldn't have had otherwise.”

Taking a breath and once calmed down, Caroline went back to preparing dinner, Howie helping her. Every moment together had now become more precious, more meaningful.

Over the next few days, though the thought lingered in their minds, Howie and Caroline made the most of it. They went to the theater, watching a marathon of movies together, Caroline made meals they enjoyed as kids, the fog making sure the small general store was stocked with everything they needed. They also spent a day at the small park that had been created just for them.

The last day had arrived, the clouds above had already begun to swirl into themselves, pulling away. The fog had greeted them at the gate as if it was waiting to guide Howie out of the town and back to the road that would take him to the mountain side once again.

They looked up at the darkened sky before looking at one another knowing it would be for the last time.

“I love you.”Caroline spoke softly, tears once again falling from her eyes.

“I love you too sis and we'll see each other again one day.” Howie replied, his own tears slipping away.

“You better go before you're lost here forever and my nephews need their Dad.”

Nodding, Howie leaned up and kissed her softly on the cheek. “See you later.”

“Yes.”

The younger man pulled himself away walking back to his car and getting in. He started it up and headed down the road, the fog guiding him just as it had done when he had arrived.

Caroline watched until his car disappeared as she always had for the very last time before walking into the house so she'd be safe until they were reunited once again.

Howie stopped at the entrance looking at the road the fog had revealed. Slowly he moved the car down the pathway, the fog following behind him until the brightness of the sun cut through the thickness. Howie stopped the car and lowered the top, looking back watching the fog and clouds disappear up into the sky. He knew the fog would return multiple times for those who knew its secret but for Howie, his time had come to an end. He turned back around, turned the music on, and made his way back down the winding road of the mountain side.

He asked for time — just a little more time. And the fog, with all its quiet grace, gave it to him. Year after year, it opened its arms so he could hold on a little longer, to the voice, the laugh, the scent of someone long gone.

But healing means letting go, and the fog… it knows when it's no longer needed. It will return again, for others who ache, others who remember. But for him, the road ahead is clear.

You won’t find this town on any map. You won’t hear about it in any song. But somewhere, just beyond the veil of grief, a sister whispers goodbye, and a brother keeps driving — toward the sun, and out of the Grey Zone.

Chapter 2: Episode1-Between Versions

Summary:

“Some journeys don’t begin with a map. They start with a weight in the chest… a question left unanswered. Kevin Richardson isn’t lost in a city or wandering down a back road — he’s lost between versions of himself. What he’s about to discover is that sometimes, the only way forward… is to look back.

A quiet city street. A restless man walking against the pull of expectation. In a world full of noise, he's carried the weight of leadership far too young. But tonight… the fog is thicker than usual. And on the other side, he’ll find something—or someone—waiting in the stillness. A version of himself that time tried to bury. What happens when the person you need most… is you?

Step carefully now. You’re crossing into... the Grey Zone.

Kevin sat there trying to get the youngest members under control and calmed down before their interview started. They had started to gain some footing in Europe and with Kevin being the oldest had been labeled as the “big brother” of the group, something Lou constantly reminded him of.

“Nick, come on. We need to stay focused." Kevin groaned.

Huffing, the teen flopped onto the couch next to his best friend who wrapped his arm around him pulling him close.

“Don't let him get to you, you know how he can get.” Brian encouraged, a bit of playfulness in his voice.

“Yeah, I know. He's got that stick wedged…”

“Can we not?” Kevin glared.

It had only been a few years and Kevin was already feeling the pressure of his “role” in the group. The be the mature one, the serious one, the one to always or least try to keep the other four wrangled and honestly he was already over it.

Finally, the interview was underway and though Kevin had to keep Nick and Brian in check, it went well. Kevin however was ready to get away from everyone.

He got his wish when they arrived back at the hotel. He was taken to his floor and left alone once he was inside. Kevin locked the door, took his shoes off, and sat on the edge of the bed groaning softly. He had gone from being the baby to the oldest in a matter of three years.

Laying back on the bed, the young man stared up at the ceiling, his mind wondering and questioning everything they were doing. Had this been a good idea? Should he have pulled his cousin into this group? Or had he caused Brian to miss out on his real dream?

Turning his head, he saw his black, leather jacket hanging on the back of the chair. Sitting up he contemplated on an idea that was severely out of character for him but he felt suffocated in the musty hotel room. Making his decision, Kevin stood and grabbed his coat and shoes putting each on before slipping out the door.

The cool air around him felt refreshing, his mind easing as he walked down the sidewalk. Sneaking out was something Nick would do, not him but he had to admit it felt almost naughty for doing it.

He wasn't sure how far he had gone or where exactly he was when a sudden fog began to swirl around him causing him to stop in his tracks, fear running down his spine. The fog was becoming thicker, closing in on him. Kevin tried to run through it but it only made the grey clouds thicker and harder for him to see.

Breathing heavily, Kevin tried to calm his frantic mind, fear still gripping him. What if someone attacked him and caught him off guard? His defenses heightened which seemed to make the clouds around him thicken even more than they already were.

“Come on Kev, it's just fog.” He spoke to himself, trying to calm down.

Closing his eyes he counted to ten, his body beginning to ease with each number spoken. When he opened his eyes, the fog had thinned out but only in the area in front of him, the fog behind him was still thick and dense as if it was determined to keep him there.

Taking a breath, the raven haired man stepped towards the thinning fog watching it clear a bit more of the pathway with each step Kevin took, the fog thickening back up behind him.

After a few minutes, Kevin saw something in the distance, a soft light glowed. He quickened his pace towards it and came across a cabin. Confused, he cautiously took a step towards it. How could a cabin be in the middle of a city?

Coming to the door, Kevin noticed the wood was older, aged like it had been here for decades. He lifted his hand and knocked, the sound of the door under his knuckles even sounded old.

When no answer came, he reached down, turned the knob, and opened the door. He stepped inside taking in his surroundings.

It was a large room with a small table and two chairs in the middle, to his right was a kitchen. His left was a couch, TV, fireplace, and a small upstairs area where a bed could be seen.

Closing the door, Kevin tentatively walked further into the room. The feel around him felt familiar, like he could see himself living in a place like this.

Despite feeling at home, Kevin felt himself easing into that intruder mindset and went to leave.

Turning around, he jumped, seeing someone behind him. The man was tall, long black hair, and a worn look on his face. In his arms was a stack of wood.

“I see you made it.” He finally said, walking towards the fireplace leaving a stunned younger man behind.

“I..Um…This..” Kevin stuttered, trying to process what or more like who he was staring at.

“You can't be real, can you?”

The older man slid a few logs on the fire, never looking away. “Maybe I'm not. Maybe you are still in your hotel room sleeping, drifted off while contemplating whether to leave or not. Or maybe you are awake and stepped over a line that divides this world from your own. Either way we are here for a reason.” He finally looked over at the young man standing in his living room, the light from the fireplace flickering against his face. He carefully stood up and walked over to him.

“Have a seat.” He invited. “It's clear you have questions.”

Kevin moved over to the small table and sat down while his older version walked into the kitchen.

“Anything to drink?” He asked.

“No thanks.” If this was a dream, it was doing a good job nailing down his mannerisms.

With mug in hand, the older version walked over to the table and sat down. “I think I should go by Scott to help with any confusion.”

Kevin was confused, but then again he was talking to himself, literally so he went with it.

Scott took a sip of his tea, setting the old mug down onto the top of the well worn table. “No rush.” He simply said, looking over the younger man. He could feel the fear, worry, and tiredness from his younger self not just because it was showing on his face and in his body language but because he had LIVED it.

“I don't know what to do. I've been put in a role that I feel like I shouldn't have been.”

“And you shouldn't have been, our ages really put us in roles none of us asked for.” Scott replied, taking another sip.

“Nick is so young and hyper. Trying to get him to focus on anything is a chore in of itself.”

Scott chuckled knowing all too well. “Promise, that hyperness never fully went away.”

“I know technically they are still just kids being asked to act like adults.” Kevin sighed looking down. “If you really are an older version of me. How did you do it?”

Scott looked out towards his living room, the light of the fire highlighting everything in the room. “It wasn't easy and it won't be easy but in the end that “stick up your ass” attitude will help the others in more ways than they could ever imagine right now.” He looked back at Kevin. “You five are in for a lot of hardships along with some amazing moments, but knowing what I do, knowing where our lives are now, it was worth it all, that I can promise you.”

“So just keep the “stick up my ass”?” Kevin asked, no more closer to an answer on what to do than he was when he found the cabin.

Scott knew he couldn't reveal too much of the future but also knew the slightest change would alter the present. “Unfortunately for now…Yes.”

Kevin slumped down into the chair, defeat clear on his face. Scott scooted his chair back and stood walking over and kneeling down beside his younger self. “I know it sucks and it looks hopeless but the future is beyond anything you can imagine right now.”

“It's worth it?” Kevin asked.

Scott nodded. “It is.”

Taking a breath, Kevin sat back up in his chair, Scott standing back up, wincing just slightly as his back caught.

“Tell me I don't have that to look forward to.”

Scott laughed and shook his head. “It's part of growing old but every bit of soreness is worth it, just wait kid.”

Kevin stood up and hugged his older self, shocking the older man, his arms wrapping around him.

“I feel better, still scared but better.”

“I know but I'm glad I could help ease your mind even just a little.” Scott softly spoke.

Kevin pulled away looking up at his older self seeing the smile on his face but raised a brow.

“What's with the long hair?” Kevin asked.

Scott laughed, running his hand through his hair. “You'll go through a lot of hair style changes, but this is for a good reason, you'll see.”

Taking his word for it, Kevin nodded looking over at the clock. “I need to get back.”

“You do.” Scott agreed, walking him to the door, opening it for him.

Kevin stepped out onto the small porch, his older self following him shutting the door behind him.

“I'm still not sure if I believe all this is actually happening, but…Thanks.”

“Just hang on.”

Kevin nodded and walked off back into the fog towards where he had come from, Scott watching.

Kevin was about halfway into the fog before turning around seeing the thickness begin to inclose on Scott and the cabin. He watched until he couldn't see his older self any longer, the fog closing in on him like it had done when he arrived.

Turning, Kevin saw the fog in front of him begin to thin out and as he came to the end, he saw the city lights cut through.

He wasn't sure what had happened, but what he did know was he would continue his role, making sure his older self got the life he deserved.

 

The road back is never the same as the road in. But sometimes, what we find on the detour is exactly what we needed. For Kevin, the answer wasn’t in changing the past… but trusting the future. And in the echo of two hearts beating in time—one old, one young—he finally heard the truth: that every burden he carried would become the legacy he left behind.

Time moves forward. But in certain places… if you listen closely… you might still hear the voice of the man you used to be—whispering, guiding, waiting… on the edge of the Grey Zone.

Chapter 3: Episode2- A Home For Those Who Wait

Summary:

Some friendships are only meant to last as long as they’re needed. And some goodbyes — even the quietest ones — stay with you forever.

Somewhere between dreams and memory, there’s a place that never touches the Earth. A house that stands just outside the waking world — filled with friends no one remembers creating, yet whose love is never forgotten. They wait with patience. They wait with hope. They wait… for the child who needs them most.
Welcome to Whisperwood Hollow — and to another turn through… The Grey Zone.

 

Whisperwood Hollow was a place not of the Earth but of the minds and imaginations of children from around the world, where imaginary friends reside until they are needed once again.

Brian Littrell looked up at the large, white building before him and sighed softly. He was glad to be home after three years of being away but at the same time, his true joy was being beside a child who needed comfort and an escape from their world around them. He specialized in helping little ones who felt neglected and needed a parental figure as a safe place, despite being imagined young, Brian was still wise.

He stepped inside and was greeted by a large hallway along with his fellow imaginary friends. He was hugged and welcomed home after so long while he walked the long hallway to the gathering room. There were multiple rooms on each side of him, bedrooms so to speak.

Walking into the gathering room caused a stir among the others.

“Brian's back!!”

The brown haired man smiled, feeling a sense of warmth fill him from the warm and happy greetings. Once through the crowd that surrounded him, he found the table he was looking for.

Howie and Lauren were talking amongst themselves not registering the commotion going on around them until Howie happened to look up, doing a double take to make sure he wasn't seeing things.

“Brian!” He beamed, gaining the older woman's attention, her own smile wild.

They quickly stood up and hugged their friend, Brian hugging them back before sitting down at the table to join them.

“I know time doesn't matter here, but we sure missed you.” Howie spoke.

“Is everything okay? We thought you'd be gone longer.” Lauren added.

“Yeah, everything's fine. She only needed me for those three years until she found the right family.” Brian explained.

“So she finally was adopted?” Lauren asked.

“She was and she will have an amazing home. I hung around for a couple of months to make sure she'd be okay but I had never seen her smile so much before.”

“Makes the wait all worth it.”

“It does.” Brian nodded. “What about you guys? What's been going on since I've been gone.”

“I came back a year ago from helping a pair of twins, talk about a handful.” Lauren chuckled.

Brian laughed. “I can only imagine.”

Howie looked down at the table, picking gently at it. Brian's face fell seeing the sadness. “Still nothing?”

“No…” The Latino sighed, “And I'm afraid if I don't get assigned soon…”

“Don't even think that!” Lauren scolded. “You'll have a child in need of you soon, I just know it.”

Howie looked up and smiled. “Thanks, I don't wanna be forgotten.”

As if his urgency had been felt, a woman with red hair walked into the room, the noise ending as if someone had hit a freeze button.

Mrs. Handly was responsible for the assignment and delivering them to the right imaginary friend. She scanned the room and smiled, finding the table she was looking for. She walked across the room toward Brian and the others.

“Oh Howie! this could be it!” Lauren whispered over to her friend

Mrs. Handly smiled at the three. “Welcome home Brian, it's good to have you back.”

“Thank you Ma'am, it's good to be back.” Brian replied.

She nodded and looked at the other two, a folder in her hand. She reached down and slid it over to them.

“A new assignment just came in and I think either of you would work perfectly so I'm letting you decide who goes.”

Howie and Lauren looked at her with shocked expressions. Mrs. Handly was never one to give this kind of a choice, usually she was good at sending the right friend.

“Let me know when you have an answer.” She said before turning on her heels and walking back out of the room.

The folder was quickly opened, Lauren and Howie looking over the file. Brian remained silent out of respect though he already knew who'd be going, the last thing either he or Lauren wanted was to lose a friend, they had gone through that before and though they couldn't feel pain, they still had that sense of missing a friend.

“Howie, I don't think we really need to discuss who's going.” She looked at him.

“I don't know..” He began but quickly closed his mouth seeing Lauren shake her head.

“You've helped little ones like her before, she needs someone who will listen to her and help her stay calm when her mind is running faster then she can keep up.”

“But so can you.” He argued.

Lauren sighed and pushed the file over to him. "Howie, it's been four years since a child has needed you like this, I just came back from helping twins, that's not an overnight decompressed thing.”

Brian grinned hearing her. He'd never helped twins before but he could only imagine how rough that was.

“You sure?” He asked.

“I am.” She smiled. “Go help Jillian like I know you can and we'll see you when you return.”

Nodding, Howie scooted his chair back and stood up, picking up the file, and headed out of the room to let Mrs. Handly know he would take on the assignment. Brian stayed with Lauren for the rest of the day before retiring to his own room.

 

Time moved, but no one felt it, the only reason they knew about time was because of the children they had helped, many friends not returning until their child became a young adult or a teenager depending on the situation and some returning even sooner due to parents interference and not allowing their child to be imaginative.

Brian and Lauren were chatting happily in the gathering room when a silence fell over the room causing the friends to look up seeing Mrs. Handly standing in the doorway with not just one file like usual, but multiple. She wasn't a cruel friend by any means but everyone knew she was the one who made the decisions for them.

“Please, don't be alarmed by the sudden silence.” She spoke, her tone soft. “As many of you have noticed, we've had some new friends join us. I'm Mrs. Handly and I'm in charge of making sure each of you are assigned to the right child.” She looked around the room, the tension had eased significantly.

“As you can see I have multiple files so many of you will be leaving for a time, but for those who remain please help the new arrivals ease into their new life and reassure them the silence when I walk in isn't out of fear.”

Soft whispers began to fill the room once again as she walked around giving those she had decided would be a good match their files. Each friend had the choice to go or stay, but with each rejection put that friend at risk of being forgotten forever.

There was one file left when the older woman made it to Brian and Lauren's table.

“Brian, I know you haven't been back home for long, but I truly feel you are the best choice for this assignment.” She said, handing him the file. “Course as you know, you are free to pass.”

Brian took it and nodded, laying it on the table for now. The red headed woman looked over at Lauren, noticing the slight sadness on her face.

“Lauren, are you ready to be assigned once again?”

The dark haired woman perked up and nodded. “I was going to actually come see you about it, I'm much better after that year.”

“I'll get you back on the roster then.”

“Thank you.”

“Of course.” She looked back down at Brian. “Let me know as soon as you can.”

“I will, promise.” Brian replied.

With that, the woman turned and headed back out. Brian looked down at the file and opened it.

“What's it say?” Lauren asked, scooting over into a chair closer to her friend.

“His name is Alex, he's ten.” Brian spoke looking over the file. “He is looking for a friend who will support and encourage him.”

“So like a Father figure, no wonder Mrs. Handly felt you were perfect.” Lauren smiled.

Brian continued to read over the file. He already knew he'd be going. “Guess, I need to let her know I'm going.”

Lauren chuckled and hugged him. “I know how much children like Alex mean to you especially."

The friends stood and walked out together, going their separate ways down the long hallway.

A few days later, Brian found himself inside a little boy's room looking around. It was a normal room he'd expected except for a few oddities. There were a couple of puppets sitting on the floor along with a few other things.

He heard the door open and a young boy walk in. The little one jumped seeing Brian in his room.

“Who..Who are you?” He asked softly, fear in his voice.

Brian bent down onto one knee. “I'm Brian, your new friend.”

Alex's eyes went wide in realization before running over to him hugging him tight. Brain smiled and hugged him back.

“You're really here?” The little boy asked, a bit of worry in his tone as if Brian would disappear.

“I am and I'll be here for as long as you need me.” Brian reassured.

Alex pulled away looking at him. “Wanna meet my puppets?”

Brian beamed. “I would love to.”

Alex scurried over to his puppets and brought them over, Brian sitting down on the floor.

Alex happily chatted about his puppets and their routine, Brian beaming happily listening to the little boy.

A sudden knock on the door made Brian jump slightly.

“Alex hunny, are you okay? Who are you talking to?” His Mother's muffled voice asked.

“Just my puppets Mama!” Alex replied, grinning at the man before him, Brian grinning back.

“Okay sweetie, dinner will be ready soon.”

A few hours later, Brian observed Alex and Denise together. It was clear they were close and had gone through a lot. He decided to let them enjoy dinner in peace, disappearing back to Alex's room.

Later that night once Denise had tucked Alex into bed, Brian knelt down at the side of the bed, Alex sitting up.

“You really will be here tomorrow?” He asked.

Brian smiled and nodded. “I will and will continue to be for as long as you need me.”

Alex settled back down under the blankets, Brian running his hand through the boy's dark hair as he fell asleep.

Not only was Brian there the next day, but was there for the next five years, cheering Alex on at each competition he did, celebrating when he did well and always had an encouraging word and hug for when things didn't go his way.

From bullies to girls, Brian was there every step of the way and when Alex started noticing his body was beginning to change but didn't know how to ask him mom, it was Brian he went to.

Alex was fifteen now and Brian could feel the familiar pull that was always there when a child was ready to move on but he could feel something as well, resistance.

Alex looked up from the latest Fashion magazine, beaming seeing Brian sitting in the chair beside him.

“Look at this!” Alex grinned, showing his friend the latest and greatest.

“You'd rocked that for sure!” Brian beamed.

“I know!” Alex laughed, that happiness shifting into something else, like the elephant in the room had trampled its way in and now was staring them down.

“You have to leave, don't you?” Alex asked.

“Not until you're ready for me to go, are you?” Brian asked.

“I..” Alex stopped. Was he ready to let his friend go?

“It's okay bud if you are, you've got so much ahead of you, you've been winning more and more competitions. I just know you'll be discovered soon. And I've seen the way you've been looking at the new girl.”

The teen’s face turned a bright red, but the silly grin on his face was everything to Brian. “I'm just scared.”

“I know you are, it's normal to feel that way. You're growing up and that alone is scary.”

“Will I forget you?” Alex asked.

“Maybe, it happens. But if you keep me here..” Brian reached up and touched his forehead with his hand. “And here..” He moved his hand down to Alex's chest where his heart was. “I'll always be with you.”

Tears pricked his eyes as he fell into Brian's arms, Brian holding him close. “Sshhh, it's okay.”

After a few minutes, Alex finally pulled away, wiping his face, taking a few deep breaths.

“Will you stay with me for a little longer?” Alex asked, his eyes pleading with fear written all over them.

“Yes of course, only you can send me away.” Alex relaxed fully and went back to what he was doing, he wasn't ready to let Brian go, let what had become his safe place disappear.

That time didn't come for another three years. Alex had just auditioned for a new band and had gotten in. Brian beamed proudly from a distance as Alex and Denise went out to celebrate, Alex looking across the restaurant to see his friend there just as he had been since he had arrived.

That night, Alex was laying in bed when Brian walked and sat down on the edge.

“I told you it would happen.” He smirked playfully.

“I can't believe it's happening.” Alex sighed contently before looking at the man beside him. “I..I think I'll be okay now. My new band mates are pretty amazing.”

“Are you sure? I can't come back.” Brian warned.

Closing his eyes, the young adult nodded. He needed to let Brian go, there were other kids who needed him. “I'm sure, I think I'll be okay doing this journey on my own.”

The friends hugged for the last time, tears falling from both sets of eyes and when Alex was asleep, Brian quietly faded away.

Brian reappeared in front of his home. It didn't matter how many times he did this, the tears fell each time. Calming down, Brian opened the door to Whisperwood and walked inside, excited to see if his friends were back and what he had missed over the last eight years…

Time moves on, and children grow. The world forgets the puppets, the tea parties, the whispered secrets in the dark. But somewhere… a door still waits to open. A house still glows with warm light. And those who once helped us learn how to feel… still wait for someone new to believe.
In Whisperwood Hollow, goodbyes are never forever. They’re just the beginning… in The Grey Zone.

Chapter 4: Episode3-Pause

Summary:

Nick returns to his hometown, hoping to revisit a piece of his childhood before it fades completely. When he stumbles upon his old arcade — long-abandoned but strangely untouched — he finds more than just dusty machines and silence....

Kevin raised a brow looking at the young blonde tying his shoes. They were in Tampa and Nick wanted to explore his “old stomping grounds” as he put it, but the older man was worried, they were becoming more widely known in the States.

“You really should take someone with you.” Kevin repeated.

Nick sat up looking at him. “Kev, I'll be fine. It's a part of town no one goes to.”

Relenting, the older man sighed. “Just be careful and be back before nightfall.”

Nick stood up and put his hand on Kevin's shoulder. “I'll be fine, Dad..”

Kevin rolled his eyes and shook his head. “Just be careful.”

Nick slipped out to the rental car and got in, heading down the road…

Somewhere on the edge of memory
is a place that once felt like home.

The lights still glow.
The games still wait.
And the past… still remembers your name.

He wasn’t trying to change anything.
Just chasing a flicker of childhood.
A moment that never quite ended.

But in certain corners of the world,
you don’t just find the past —
you slip back into it.

He’s about to lose track of time…
in The Grey Zone…

As Nick drove, the area around him seemed to darken, trash littered the streets and sidewalk. Buildings being reclaimed by nature, the weather also showing its own effect it had on the crumbling structures.

Moving on down the road, Nick found a place to park and stepped out of the car looking around. It made him sad to see what good part of his childhood was now in ruins. Sighing, he headed down the sidewalk letting himself get lost in the memories.

Rounding a corner, Nick stopped short seeing a building he knew well. Like the other buildings around it, time and nature had taken its course. Vines crept up the sides and through the sign that was once bright with a neon glow. The old arcade building had been like a second home to Nick, an escape from life and the realities he was facing.

Walking closer to the building, Nick noticed unlike some of the other buildings, the windows weren't smashed in, graffiti didn't cover the walls or door. It was like no one dared to come near or dishonor what was once here.

Standing at the door brought memories back to Nick he in a way had pushed to the side in his mind, not fully regressed or forgotten, simply there in the dark waiting to be remembered. Taking a chance, he reached for the doorknob and turned it, his eyes wide seeing it turn and open, expecting it to be locked.

The door resisted for a moment, a bit of rust and dirt falling to the ground as Nick made his way inside, closing the door behind him.

Inside was about what he expected but what broke his heart was the machines lined up against the wall and a few in the middle, sitting. Cobwebs and dust covered the tops and screens of the machines. He was about halfway across the room when he heard flickering, sparks of light lighting up the room. Nick felt the fear and panic rush through him watching the machines come to life, the sounds filling the room.

Panicked, Nick ran for the door, his hand ready to turn the knob when he heard a noise causing him to turn around. There in the middle was one of the machines he remembered playing as a child.

Walking away from the door, Nick made his way back to the center of the room, the glow of the machine luring him in that familiar insert coin flashing. As if it was memory muscle, Nick patted his pockets feeling something inside them. Sliding his hand inside, he felt something solid pulling it out. It was a coin..but..how?

Slipping the coin into the slot and hitting the Player One button, Nick began to play. With each coin, the blonde felt himself slipping further away, forgetting about the time, the world outside the arcade, the band, the promise he made to Kev to be back before sundown.

What Nick didn't realize was that with each coin inserted brought the arcade to life a little bit more. Soon, other machines began to make noises, pinballs could be heard being hit with the flippers. Children's voices echoed happily through the once silent room. The dirt, dust, and cobwebs disappeared, the light fixtures were soft with their glow.

And Nick himself had changed as well, no longer the young man with so many troubles, but now a young boy who had found his way home where he belonged…

a crumbling shell of a building. Dust where laughter used to live.

No lights. No children. Just a forgotten place that once meant everything to someone who forgot himself.

He came looking for echoes.
And now, he’s part of them.

Because in The Grey Zone,
sometimes we don’t go back in time —
we simply stay behind.

Chapter 5: Episode4- Reservations For Two

Summary:

They came for rest. For quiet. For a honeymoon to remember.
What they got was everything they asked for — and maybe more than they bargained for.

Rochelle giggled happily as her and Alex made their way to the front door of Serapine Springs, a luxury resort that had everything you could want and more. They had booked one of the honeymoon suites for the week.

The glass sliding doors opened for them, both in awe at what they saw. Front and center was a large white marble staircase with amber color banisters, around them full nature light streamed into the lobby from the windows. On either side of them were multiple tables and cushioned chairs giving the lobby a pop of color against the whiteness.

“Oh! This is going to be so much fun!” Rochelle squealed.

Alex chuckled looking at his new bride before kissing her head and walking towards the front desk, Rochelle happily following behind.

At the desk was a beautiful woman with flowing blonde hair, a smile that felt warm and welcoming. The desk itself was just as beautiful, white like the staircase but had specks of amber. The trimming around the top also had that polished amber look.

The blonde haired woman smiled. “Welcome to Serapine Springs, I'm Leighanne. How can I help you?”

“Yeah, we have reservations under Mclean.” Alex answered.

“Alright, let me see here.” Leighanne spoke, going to her computer to type.

“Ah! Here we are, oh one of our honeymoon suites. Congratulations.” She smiled.

“Thank you.” Rochelle replied.

She typed a few more things before grabbing their key cards and writing their number on the slip.

“Alright, here are your keywords with your suite number. Oh good, you're both here, prompt as always.”

Behind the couple stood a dark curly haired woman and a blonde haired man with a luggage trolley. “Max, please take the Mclean's luggage up to Suite 274.”

“Yes Ma'am.” Max spoke, it seemed professional yet the tone came off rehearsed, robotic.

While Max loaded their luggage onto the trolley, The woman reached out her hand.

“I'm Saoirse and I'll be your guide and host while you are here.” She introduced herself.

“It's very nice to meet you.” Alex answered, shaking her hand, Rochelle doing the same.

“If you follow me, I'll take you to your room.” She motioned them to follow her up the stairs to the elevators while Max used the lower level elevators. Saoirse pressed the button that would take them up to the suites. Once the three step into the open elevator and the door closes, Alex and Ro's stay had become official…

A honeymoon in paradise. Seraphine Springs offers everything the heart desires — comfort, beauty, and peace. But some destinations offer more than just luxury. Some offer a feeling you can’t explain… and a stay you didn’t expect. They’ve arrived at a place that feels too perfect to leave…They have just checked into…The Grey Zone…

The ride up the elevator was eerie quiet but soon the ding sounded and the doors opened.

“This way please.” Saoirse spoke for the first time since they had met.

The hallway was dark making the area feel small and confined, small lamps lit the way as they walked down the hallway, Rochelle moving a bit closer to Alex.

They finally arrived at their suite, Saoirse stepping to the side. “If you need me for anything, my number is beside your phone. Max should be here with your luggage momentarily.”

“Thank you.” Alex smiled, swiping the key card going inside, Rochelle following him.

As Alex closed the door, Rochelle's eyes were wide looking around their suite. A beautiful four post bed in the middle with a soft draped canopy flowing down over it. The large windows had a beautiful balcony scene of the resort gardens and natural sunlight. The walls were dark like the hallway, the bathroom even darker keeping Rochelle a slight chill seeing the dark blue bathroom. It was beautiful but the darkened colors made her feel uneasy.

A knock on the door made her jump and walk back into the room where she saw Alex letting Max in with their luggage.

“I'm sorry Sir for not being more prompt with delivering your luggage.” Max apologized, a bit of fear in his voice as if he was afraid they would report him.

“You're completely fine.” Alex reassured, handing Max a hefty tip.

“Oh no Sir, I couldn't.”

“Please, I insist.”

The blonde haired man beamed happily. “Thank you so much!”

“You're welcome.”

The luggage was unloaded and Max took the trolley with him, Alex closing the door. The rest of the first day was spent relaxing, the couple worn from the drive.

The next day Alex and Rochelle walked through the lush gardens after a filling breakfast. They had met some of the other couples and were meeting up with them later that evening.

“It's so beautiful here.” Rochelle sighed happily, her arms around Alex's, her head on his shoulder.

“It is.” He nodded. “Hey, I just remembered, Saoirse booked a spa day for us .”

She looked up at him. “That was sweet of her.”

“I thought you'd like that.”

Later that afternoon, with Saoirse in the distance, the couple was in the spa being pampered and now she found herself in a relaxing room getting the best massage she'd ever had. Soft music played and lavender filled the room.

“This is heaven.” She sighed contently.

“I’m so glad to hear that.” Pearl replied, moving down the woman's back. “We want all our residents to feel at home, how are you liking it so far?”

“It's been amazing, the staff is so sweet and helpful.” She replied.

“That's what we strive for, we have to tend to those who stay with us. There we go, all done.”

Pearl washed her hands, drying them off. “I'll leave you be so you can get dressed, come out when you're ready and Saoirse will take you to get your hair done.”

“Thank you.” Rochelle smiled.

The woman walked out so Rochelle could dress and a few moments later, Rochelle was sitting in the softest chair she had ever been in taking in everything going on around her.

In the distance, Saoirse watched silently when she felt a presence beside her. She turned her head seeing a blonde woman beside her.

“Report.” She spoke.

“Going well, they are settling in nicely.”

“Good, Leighanne will be pleased, keep up the good work.”

“Thank you Ma'am.”

The blonde woman walked away, Saoirse putting her focus back on Rochelle who was none the wiser about what was going on.

That evening, Alex and Rochelle found themselves in the most amazing banquet hall they had ever seen. A live band played in the background, the staff were dressed clean, professional but their movements felt stiff as if they were being watched.

“It's so beautiful in here.” Rochelle spoke in awe.

“Isn't it?” Julia asked. “We are amazed every time there's a banquet.”

Julia and Andrew had become fast friends with Alex and Rochelle, meeting each other at one of the earlier events the resort had put on.

“How long have you been staying?” Alex asked.

A server had just walked by, refilling the drinks, giving the couple a quick glance.

“Oh uh you know, funny thing we love it here so much, we can't seem to find the heart to leave.” Andrew smiled. The server nodded and walked away.

The food arrived much to Alex's and Ro's surprise. Julia and Andrew began to eat as if this was a normal meal for them.

“The food here is always so good.” Julia sighed.

“I've never heard of a resort serving lamb.” Alex said, taking a small bite. “Oh my, but this is good.

“Mm…Leighanne spares no expense to make sure guests are treated in every way.” Andrew said.

“Wait..Leighanne as in the desk hostess?” Rochelle asked.

Julia nodded, her smile wide but also felt forced. “Oh yes, Leighanne doesn't sit behind a desk in a private office. She likes being around the guests, helping the staff, making sure everything is running smoothly.”

Alex and Ro looked at each other not sure what to think. Not many owners would be out in front like that and certainly not doing the job of an employee unless push came to shove and even then…

“But in time, you don't even recall she's the owner, but simply part of the resort family.” Andrew added.

The rest of the evening was spent enjoying the company of their new friends and the banquet even if the air around the newlyweds was thicker than it had been.

Rochelle sat on the bed waiting for Alex to join her, her mind still running through the night's events. Alex came out drying his hair before tossing the towel and walking over to her, sitting down beside her.

“What's wrong?” He asked.

“I don't know..Things just seem..odd.” Ro replied, a worried look on her face.

Alex smiled and rubbed her cheek. “just relax love, it's been amazing so far and tonight was simply a foo foo night.”

“Yeah, guess you're right.” She smiled, kissing him softly. He kissed her back before snuggling on the bed and going to sleep.

As the week went on, Rochelle's uneasiness grew, especially when itineraries showed up each morning explaining the day's events, Saoirse making sure the couple stayed on task.

By the end of the week, Rochelle was happy to be leaving. This hadn't been the week she was expecting, they really didn't get to do much of anything they wanted to do nor did it feel like they were able to relax.

“Can't wait to get home.” Rochelle spoke, packing her bags.

Alwx looked over at his love, packing his own bag. “I’m sorry you didn't enjoy yourself, love.”

“No, it's not your fault.” She smiled looking at him. “I just wish we could have done more of what we wanted to do.”

Nodding, Alex closed the suitcase and put it by the door, Rochelle doing the same. They had called for Max not long ago and on cue, the young man was knocking on the door, his trolley at his side.

Alwx opened the door surprised to see Saoirse with Max, smiling as she always did but there seemed to be more of an undertone to it this time.

“Max, please gather the Mclean's luggage.” Saoirse commanded.

Nodding silently, Max walked in grabbing the suitcases and setting them on the trolley, going it towards the elevators.

“Shall we go?” She asked.

With one last check of the room to make sure they had gotten everything, the couple headed out with Saoirse. The elevator doors opened and the group walked down the stairs for the last time.

“You can check out anytime you like..” Leighanne smiled at the new couple.

Once she had sent the couple with their guide and bellhop, she put her attention to Alex and Ro. “Ah! Is it time for you to leave us already?”

They walked up to the desk and nodded, Alex handing over the key cards.

“I presume Saoirse and the rest of the staff treated you with the utmost care.” She spoke, typing on the keyboard.

“Yes, everything was perfect.” Alex smiled.

“Good, well you're all set to go. Please come back and see us again.”

They said their goodbyes and headed out to their car, slipping their suitcases inside the trunk and getting in.

Rochelle sighed happily as the resort disappeared behind them, she couldn't wait to go home.

The building had just disappeared from view when the couple was jerked, a crunch could be heard in the front of their car.

“Are you okay?” Alex asked, panting slightly.

“Yeah..I think so.” Rochelle replied, her hand over her frantic heart. “What was that?”

Alex backed the car up, took his seat belt off, and opened the door getting out, Rochelle joining him. The front bumper was dented but nothing serious. The young man turned around, lifting his hand and walking until he felt something solid, his eyes widening looking over at his love..

A beautiful resort. A perfect honeymoon.

But not everything that pampers is paradise… and not every smiling face is free to leave.

For Alex and Rochelle, the road home ends not in freedom — but in the realization that their stay… was never temporary.

They checked in for a week of luxury.
They’ll be staying for eternity here… in The Grey Zone

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of The Grey Zone