Whispers of the Innocent

2

I'm Henry Morrison, forty-two years old, and my childhood fascination with mystery and detective stories led me to become a mystery novelist.

Sarah Jennings and I have been married for years, enjoying a harmonious relationship. She's always been my faithful first reader.

Beyond writing, I've long cherished a hobby of keeping reptile pets. Turtles, frogs, lizards—their diverse forms captivate me.

I've dedicated a room in our suburban home for my reptile friends and went the extra mile to create a large vivarium that mimics a tropical rainforest ecosystem, offering them a natural and comfortable habitat.

Though I earn my living through writing, my background in biological engineering from college days now serves a purpose.

When Sarah and I first met, she was somewhat critical of my unusual hobby. But being the easygoing person she is, she grew to appreciate my reptilian companions over time.

We decided against having children and instead find joy in caring for our reptile pets. During my writing marathons, Sarah tends to our pets more than I do.

Late one night, after wrapping up work, I found Sarah still awake, observing a frog in the reptile room.

"You know, I used to be really scared of these cold-blooded creatures," she remarked, then casually asked, "Henry, are there any animals you're afraid of?"

After a moment's thought, a peculiar idea crossed my mind.

"Actually, yes," I replied earnestly. "I'm afraid of sheep."

Puzzled, she asked, "Why? Sheep are so gentle."

"It's their eyes; there's something eerie about them," I said with a hint of seriousness. "Are you still up for a story? I've got one for you."

In the dimly lit reptile room, the elongated pupils of the lizards seemed to watch us intently.

"Ooh, mysterious," Sarah chuckled. "Go on, then."

"The story's protagonist is named Henry Morrison."

"Why use your own name?"

"This feels immersive."