: The Little Boy and the Friendly Ghost | TaleTreasury

Once upon a time, in a small, quiet town in California, there lived a bright and kind-hearted boy named Hunter Davis. At just seven years old, Hunter had already faced more hardships than many adults. His home life was far from joyful, largely because of his cruel and heartless stepmother, Vanessa. Hunter lived with his father, Chris, and his older half-brother, Steve. Although Steve had a different mother, he cared deeply for Hunter and often tried to shield him from Vanessa’s relentless cruelty.

Vanessa was no ordinary stepmother—at least not in Steve’s eyes. She was wicked, spiteful, and seemed to take pleasure in punishing the boys for the smallest of mistakes. She barked orders at them, forced them into endless chores, and, if they dared to disobey, she wouldn’t hesitate to shout or strike them. The most painful punishment, however, was the deprivation of food. After cooking meals, the boys were made to stand aside while Vanessa and Chris ate at the table. Sometimes, when Vanessa wasn’t looking, Hunter and Steve would sneak tiny bites of the food they’d prepared, just to ease their growling stomachs.

Chris, though aware of the mistreatment, seemed powerless under Vanessa’s influence. He always apologized to the boys after dinner, whispering his sorrow when Vanessa wasn’t around. But Hunter, wise beyond his years, always responded, “It’s okay, Dad. It’s not your fault she’s this way.”

One evening, after yet another painful dinner where they weren’t allowed to eat, Steve pulled Hunter aside. He had been secretly thinking of escaping with his little brother—of running away to a safer place where Vanessa could never hurt them again. That night, Steve shared his plan with Chris, who, rather than object, supported the idea. Chris even suggested that Steve inform his own mother, Stacy, about the plan, so she would know the boys’ whereabouts.

Steve agreed, but only on one condition: “Promise me, Dad, that you’ll get rid of that wicked woman while we’re gone.” Chris promised, his face heavy with guilt and hope.

With a plan in motion, Chris helped Steve purchase plane tickets to Iowa, where the boys’ kind-hearted Aunt Crystal lived. As they packed, Steve helped Hunter gather his clothes. Then something unexpected happened—a ghost appeared in Hunter’s room, softly calling for Steve.

Unlike the usual hauntings, the ghost seemed gentle this time. “Don’t be afraid,” the ghost said. “I need to speak with you.”

Steve, cautious yet curious, asked, “Is this going to be something bad?”

“No,” the ghost replied. “I promise. Follow me.”

Steve followed the ghost to his own room, where the spirit finally shared his truth. “I’m sorry for scaring you both. I never wanted to hurt you. The truth is—I’m terrified of Vanessa myself. She forced me to behave cruelly. She may not see me, but somehow, her dark energy binds me.”

Steve was shocked. “But she can’t even see you! Why would you fear her?”

“I don’t know,” the ghost admitted. “But her presence is overpowering, even for someone like me. Before you leave, I have two requests: First, promise to keep your dad updated. Second, protect your brother Hunter at all costs.”

Without hesitation, Steve pledged, “I promise. But will you still be here when we come back? Will you stay this kind?”

The ghost smiled faintly. “Yes, I’ll still be here—and I’ll be as kind as I am now. Without Vanessa’s evil around, I can be myself.”

The ghost faded, and Steve returned to Hunter’s room, pretending as if nothing had happened. The next morning, Chris dropped the boys off at what Vanessa thought was school, but in reality, he was sending them to the airport. As the boys traveled to Iowa, Chris kept in touch with Steve through texts, and Steve also updated his mom, Stacy, who fully supported the escape.

Once the boys arrived safely, Chris felt a sense of relief and took immediate action. He carefully provoked Vanessa just enough for her to snap, and in her anger, she agreed to sign the divorce papers. Chris gave her the weekend to collect her belongings and leave.

Vanessa, oblivious to the boys’ absence, packed up and left by Monday. Chris cleaned the house thoroughly, ridding it of every trace of Vanessa’s presence.

Later, Chris called Steve to share the good news. “The witch is gone, son. The divorce is happening.”

Steve was happy but asked, “Can we stay with Aunt Crystal a bit longer? We’re having fun with the family.”

Chris chuckled. “As long as your Aunt and Uncle are okay with it, you can stay another week.”

Aunt Crystal and her husband were more than happy to keep the boys. They assured Chris the boys were not just safe, but also helpful and kind.

After their extended stay, the boys finally returned home. Chris picked them up at the airport with the biggest, warmest hug imaginable. The house was peaceful now, free from Vanessa’s toxic shadow. And, as promised, the friendly ghost was still there—but now, truly a guardian spirit for the boys.

Together, Hunter, Steve, Chris, and their ghostly friend lived happily ever after.

The End

✅ Moral of the Story

Sometimes, courage and family unity can break the chains of fear and cruelty. Even when situations seem overwhelming, love, support, and the bravery to make a change can lead to a brighter, safer future.