The Other Side of the Door

"There was only one rule: don’t open the door,” Corbin explained.

“And who made that rule?” Dr. Parsons asked.

“The shadow doctor.”

Dr. Parsons’s eyes narrowed. “You’re referring to the doctor who treated you at the asylum?”

“Yes,” Corbin said.

“You might be scared, but I think it’s time to break the rule. There could be something you’re suppressing through this dream that needs to be addressed.”

Corbin nodded, but he was trembling. He laid back and closed his eyes. Many minutes passed before sleep gradually overcame him.

He was in a familiar forest. The trees were shrouded in darkness, but the sky glowed a pale gray. He traversed the well worn trail to the shack as he always did. Wringing his hands, he stared at the doorknob. The one rule…

Every cell in his body seemed to protest as he extended his hand. He twisted the knob. His eyes were flooded with light as he stumbled forward. A man stood in the center of an empty room. Slowly, he turned to face Corbin.

Corbin gasped. The man’s face was a replica of his own.

“At last!” the doppelganger exclaimed. “I knew you would return, but I admit I underestimated your strength. We aren’t boys anymore, are we?”

“Who are you?” Corbin asked.

“I’m you, but stronger, smarter, better. The shadow doctor feared me as he should have, but I will find him.”

The doppelganger strode forward.

“Where are you going?” Corbin called out.

“I’ll be taking control now,” the doppelganger said. “I was content with nights until you stole them from me. Now it's your turn to wait.” He exited the shack and pulled the door closed behind him.

Corbin darted to it, but there was no knob on the inside. He was sealed in.

Author's Note: Created a prequel of sorts to this story for Kenny Penn's Frighten Me! Please? Challenge. If you're interested check out the link below.