The Ornament

 Challenge - Photo Prompt - 250 Words Exactly

I salvaged it from a box of old junk which was destined for the charity shop when my great uncle James passed away.

I don’t know why I kept it as it didn’t fit with the décor in my tiny flat.

It sat there on the small circular breakfast in the corner of the lounge.

I’d taken it to a few antique and curiosity shops but nobody could reveal its secrets.

Something about it drew me in, like a Siren’s song to unwary sailors.

I started to have trouble sleeping. Strange dreams were waking me drenched in a cold sweat.

In the mornings, my memory of the dreams was just out of reach.

I finally boxed it up and hid it in in the airing cupboard.

I slept soundly last night, but when I entered the lounge it was back on the table.

I made a cup of tea then heard a knock on the front door.

“Sorry to disturb you Miss, but I wondered if you heard anything untoward last night?” said the young police officer standing outside.

“No” I replied, “Why?”

“We’re just making enquiries” he said “One of your neighbours was found dead in her flat in suspicious circumstances”

“OMG” I exclaimed “I didn’t hear anything”

“No problem Miss, just contact the local police station if you think of anything”

I closed the door and went through to the bathroom.

There, hanging behind the door, was my dressing gown. But why was it covered in fresh blood?