When Phil returned the next day, the black book he'd left had been moved. Phil reached down and picked it up, but there was nothing written inside. Phil sighed, but still talked to the air, hoping Dan would hear him.

The same thing happened the next day, and the next, and so on.

But one day, when Phil picked up the book, there was some actual writing.

'Dear stranger,

I'm sorry to say that I can't remember your name. Also, I'm sorry for not answering you when you've tried to reach me. I'm just- I'm not really okay.

But then again, I've never been. But you already know about all of that, so I won't get into it.

When I died, I hoped that was the end. Unfortunately, I'm still here, but I'm lonelier than I've ever been... even before, when I was alive. You're the first person I've seen, interacted with, and spoken to in years. I can't believe you actually can see me.

It may not have seemed that way, but it came as a surprise to me. It's also quite surprising that you're so nice to me. I'll never understand why. Perhaps it's just pity, but something tells me it's more than that.

I'd like to get to know you, I think. I really need a friend.

A real friend.

Even though I'm dead, I'm still consumed by this overwhelming sadness. I'm tired of it. I'm tired of crying, and I'm tired of being alone.

But I've written this for you because I'm not ready to face you again, but if you keep coming back, maybe I can start to trust you, and then I'll come back out. But for now, as a start, I'll give you my words in the form of writing, in this little black book- I'll give you the sad writings of a sad ghost.'

Phil breathed out, a small, sad smile gracing his lips as the light of the warm sun illuminated his features nicely, with the light hitting his eyes just beautifully.

Phil nuzzled his scarf, closing his eyes, trying to keep warm.

When he reopened his eyes, he looked into the little pond.

"Thank you for writing, Dan. Tomorrow, I'll bring you some flowers."

With that, he put the book down and stood, brushing himself off. He turned and followed the path back out of the woods. He'd be back again the next day.

For once in a long time, Dan smiled.

-

Hah, sorry it's short. Merry early Christmas.