50 True Scary Stories In The Rain | Disturbing & Terrifying Horror Stories To Fall Asleep To Fast

Hello everyone and welcome back to the horror Hut now I know a lot of you use these videos to sleep so before you drift off I thought it would be a fun idea if everyone can leave a comment to let me know where you are listening from in the world also like And subscribe if you are enjoying the episodes right let's get comfy and relaxed and let's Begin I was staying at my friend Hannah's farm for the summer helping out while she and her h were traveling it wasn't a big farm just a few acres

of land some chickens and a couple of cows they left me a list of tasks to handle feeding the animals watering the garden basic stuff I grown up in the city so this was all new to me but I figured it would be a nice change of pace The Farmhouse was old but comfortable set at the end of a Dirt road with no other houses nearby it was peaceful out there quiet at least it was at first I noticed the truck for the first time about a week after I arrived it was an old rusty

pickup that didn't look like it belonged to anyone nearby it drove by in the evening just as the sun was setting I didn't think much of it at first people drive by Farms all the time but the next evening the same truck went By again moving slowly the driver didn't stop or wave just kept going after a few more days of this I started to feel uneasy one night I was outside locking up the chicken Coupe when I saw the truck again this time it slowed almost to a crawl as it passed the driveway the

headlights cut through the growing dark and I could just barely make out the silhouette of the Driver he was sitting upright watching the house I stood Frozen for a moment then forced myself to finish locking the coupe when I looked back the truck was gone I told myself there was nothing maybe the driver lived nearby and had some reason to pass the farm every night maybe I was imagining things still I started locking the doors earlier and double-checking the windows before going to bed a few nights later I Was sitting in the living room reading

I heard a noise outside it was faint just a crunch of travel but it was enough to make my our race I turned off the lamp and peaked out the window the truck was back parked at the end of the driveway the headlights were off but I could see the faint outline of the cab against the moonlet road I stayed there barely breathing Watching as the minutes ticked by eventually the truck started up again and drove off I didn't sleep much that night the next day I called Hannah I didn't want to worry her but

I needed to tell someone she listened quietly then told me to keep the house locked and call the sheriff if anything else happened she said she'd let a neighbor know to check in on me that made me feel a little better but not much for a few days nothing Happened I started to think maybe the driver had just been passing through and I was overreacting but then came the night I heard the Screen Door Creek it was late and I was in bed half asleep The Farmhouse was old and the walls creaked when the wind

blew so I almost didn't register the sound at first but then it happened again a long slow Creek followed by the soft thought of the screen door Shutting I froze the bedroom was upstairs and I could hear every little sound in the house when it was quiet there were footsteps now heavy and deliber moving through the kitchen my first thought was that it must be the neighbor Hannah had mentioned maybe checking in without calling first but it was nearly midnight and no one would just walk into the house like that I slipped out of bed

as quietly as I could and grabbed my phone The floorboards graned under my weight and I winced holding my breath the footsteps stopped for a moment then started again heading toward the stairs I dialed 9 911 and whispered my address to the dispatcher trying to stay calm she told me to stay on the line and lock myself in a room if I could I moved to the closet and slid the door shut crouching down behind a pile of boxes my heart was pounding so hard I thought whoever was in the house would Hear it the

footsteps reached the top of the stairs they paused then moved toward my bedroom I could hear the floor creaking just outside the door the handle turned and the door opened with a soft squeak I bit down on my hand to keep from making a sound the dispatcher was still on the line whispering to me to stay quiet and stay hidden I barely heard her over the sound Of my own breathing the footsteps entered the room and stopped for a moment everything was silent then I heard the faint rustle of fabric like someone was moving around

searching the closet door didn't open after what felt like an eternity the footsteps retreated I heard them going back down the stairs slower this time almost cautious the screen door creeped again And then it was quiet I stayed in the closet until I heard sirens in the distance when the deputies arrived they found the front door wide open but no sign of anyone nearby the truck was gone the deputies searched the the property and found footprints in the snow leading from the driveway to the house they circled the chicken Coupe and a few out buildings

before disappearing into the woods they Didn't find the truck and there wasn't much else they could do I stayed at The Farmhouse for one more night but I didn't sleep the next morning I packed up and left I told Hannah I couldn't finish out the summer and apologize for leaving her in a bind she understood though when I told her what happened she didn't try to convince me to stay I don't know who that man was or What he wanted maybe it was just some local messing around or maybe it was something worse I try

not to think about it too much but I'll never forget the sound of those footsteps slow and deliberate moving closer in the dark when I moved into my apartment I thought I'd finally found the right place it was small but it felt comfortable enough to rent wasn't bad and the landlord Mr tilert seemed polite when I me him to Sign the lease he was probably in his 6 s thin with a comb over that didn't do much for his bald head his handshake was clammy but he smiled enough to seem friendly I spent my first

week settling in unpacking boxes and figuring out where to put things the place was old with creaky floors and doors that stuck but I didn't mind it felt like my own space at least it did it first the first a thing happened a few days after I'd Moved in I came home from work and noticed my bathroom door was open I always kept it closed because the window in there let in a draft it wasn't something I thought much about at first I figured I'd just forgotten but then I noticed the towel I'd hung over

the shower rod was folded on the sink I don't fold my towels I tried to brush it off moving His hectic and maybe i' done it without realizing that's what I told myself anyway a few days later I got up early on a Saturday to run errands I locked up as usual and left planning to be gone most of the day when I came back that evening something felt off as soon as I stepped inside it was subtle like the air had been Disturbed I looked around trying to Figure out what it was and that's

when I saw it my keys which I always left on the kitchen counter or now on the car coffee table in the living room I felt a cold wave roll over me I was sure I hadn't put them there I tried to convince myself I was being paranoid but then I started noticing other little things a TR slightly open in the bedroom a lamp turned off that I swore I'd left on a mud that had been in the sink was now on the drying Rack it wasn't much but it added up the next time I

saw Mr Kill Bert I casually asked if anyone had been in my unit for maintenance he shook his head and said no giving me that same polite smile he always wore I told myself I was being silly that maybe I was just stressed from the move but the uneasy feeling wouldn't go away one afternoon I decided to test it I left for a few hours but purposely set a small piece of tape on the inside of The door frame near the hinge I came back the tape was on the floor my stomach dropped someone had

been inside I called Mr tilert immediately trying to keep my voice calm he answered after a few rings sounding surprised to hear from me I told him about the tape and asked if he'd been in my apartment oh yes he said as though it were the most normal thing in the world I was just checking on something to There was a leak in the unit above you and I wanted to make sure it wasn't affecting yours I didn't think you'd mind his tone was casual like he wasn't aware of how wrong it was to let

himself into someone's home without permission I was too stunned to argue at first but after I H up I felt angry I decided to change the locks even though it wasn't allowed under the lease I couldn't relax knowing he could Just walk in whenever he wanted the locksmith came the next day I didn't tell Mr Gilbert and I HED he wouldn't notice right away for a few days things were quiet I started to feel normal again then late one night I woke up to the sound of someone chickling my door knob my heart stopped I

stayed completely still listening as the noise continued it wasn't loud just soft Clicks and scraping like someone was trying to be quiet I cracked my phone and crept out of bed my hand shaking the sound stopped suddenly and I thought maybe they'd gone away then I heard a faint knock Miss Harper it was Mr Gilbert's Voice Low and calm it's me I need to check something inside I didn't answer I couldn't my whole body was frozen I stood there holding my breath as he knocked again I know you're in there he said his tone was

different now almost annoyed you changed the locks you can't do that it's against the lease I stayed silent hoping he'd give up after a few minutes the knocking stopped and I heard him walking away I didn't sleep at all that night the next morning I called the police and told them what had happened they sent an officer to take a report but there Wasn't much they could do since he hadn't broken in or threatened me they said it was a civil matter I felt helpless I tried to avoid Mr Gilbert after that but it wasn't

easy he lived on the property so I'd see him occasionally walking across the parking lot or working in the yard every time I saw him he' give me that same polite Smile as if nothing had happened one evening I came home to find a not tape To my door it was from Mr Gilbert saying he needed to speak with me about a repair is shoe I didn't trust him so I ignored it that night I woke up to the sound of footsteps outside my window I sat up in bed my heart racing the blinds were

closed but I could see a faint Shadow moving back and fourth I crapped my phone and dialed 911 Whispering to the operator that someone was outside my Apartment the shadow paused and I heard a soft tapping on the glass Miss Harper it was him again I need to talk to you I didn't respond I just stayed on the line with the operator trying to keep my voice steady as I gave them my address the tapping continued for a few more seconds then stopped by the time the police arrived He was gone I filed another report

but again there wasn't much they could do they suggested I move if I felt unsafe it felt unfair but I knew they were right I started looking for a new place the next day I left that apartment 2 weeks later on my last day there as I was loading the last of my things into the car I saw Mr tilert standing in the Window of his office watching me he didn't wave or smile this time he just stared I got in my car and drove away and I haven't looked back since I worked the late

shift at a small Diner on the edge of town it's one of those places that's always a little too quiet at night and you get used to the feeling of the place emptying out as the hours drag on the kind of Diner where you serve coffee to the same few faces and clean the Counters while you wait for the clock to hit the time you can finally go home it was a Thursday night the usual quiet evening I had just finished wiping down the last of the tables and the few customers that had come in

for dinner had already left there were only a couple of hours left until closing time and I was looking forward to going home and getting some sleep it had been a long day the diner was nearly empty safe for me and the Sound of the dishwasher running in the back it had started raining about an hour ago just light enough to make the parking lot slick and shiny but now not heavy enough to make it difficult to see out the big windows I had just locked the front door checked the clock and Was preparing to

do a final sweep when I noticed the headlights at first I thought maybe someone had come back for something they forgotten or maybe it was just someone Passing by but then I saw the car was parked in the same spot for a good minute the headlights still on shining through the rain the car wasn't moving I glanced over to the window in trying to catch a glimpse of whoever was inside but I couldn't make out anything through the glare of the headlights no movement no sign of anyone I froze for a moment unsure if I

should ignore it or go check the lot was Empty except for that car no other vehicles around no customers walking to or from their cars it felt strange the feeling crawled up the back of my neck like some someone was standing just behind me breathing too close it's hard to describe but something about it made me uneasy I had worked The Late Shift countless times but this was Different I waited a little longer but the car didn't move it just sat there idling with the headlights on barely lighting the small parking lot I didn't know

what to do the other staff had already left for the night and I was alone maybe they were waiting for someone maybe they needed help but it was starting to get late and I didn't want to deal with whatever this was eventually I decided to step outside Just to see if anyone needed anything maybe I could just get them to leave and close up without any trouble I cracked my jacket from behind the counter tucked my phone into my pocket and walked toward the door as I reached for the handle I noticed something unusual there

was a note stuck to the outside of the door not just taped to the glass but pressed directly unto it like someone Had purposely placed it there just out of view I stopped for a second my hand Frozen in the air staring at it terrain had already started to smear the ink on the outside of the window but it was still legible enough to read we're watching it was simple no signature no other message just those words and the more I stared at it the more I felt my stomach Twist the air in the diner

seemed to grow colder like I wasn't alone anymore I stepped back from the door I didn't know why I felt so scared there was nothing physically threatening about the note nothing that seemed like an immediate danger but the feeling in my gut told me something was very very wrong who would leave a note like that and why now my first thought was to lock the door and call the Police but when I turned back to the car I saw something that made my heart drop the headlights were still on but there was no one inside

the car was completely empty I don't know how to explain it but I felt the hair on the back of my neck stand up I felt like I was being watched like someone was standing in the shadows waiting for me to make my move I slowly moved back to the counter keeping my eyes on the parking lot my Breath coming faster than it should the car was still there but there was nothing else no movement no sign of anyone it was just the rain in the silence I wasn't sure what to do next I felt

stuck if I called the police what would I even tell them that there was a note on the door that someone was watching ing the diner from their car I looked at the note again the words kept replaying in my head we're Watching I felt ridiculous for even thinking about it who would do something like that but something about the situation just felt off the way the note was placed the way the car was just sitting there completely still and the strange suffocating silence that had taken over the diner I didn't know who or what

was out there but I had a terrible feeling that I didn't want to find out I cracked my phone from my pocket and quickly dialed My best friend I needed someone to talk to even if it was just to calm my nerves it rang a few times before she picked up hey what's up she asked sounding half asleep something's wrong I said my voice shaky there's a car parked outside and there's this snow on the door it says what does it say she interrupted sounding more awake now we're watching I said almost Whispering it as

if the Words might somehow make the situation worse there was silence on the other end for a moment I didn't know if she was thinking I was overreacting or if she was as scared as I was okay she said her voice now calm but serious listen just lock the door and stay inside I'm calling the cops all right don't open the door for anyone don't do anything until they get there I hunt up Without saying anything else my hands were trembling now and I couldn't sit still I didn't know what was happening or who had

left that note but the feeling of being watched hadn't gone away I locked the door checked the back windows and kept my phone in my hand just in case the minutes dragged on every little noise in the diner making me jump terrain was still coming down outside but nothing Changed no cars drove by no one knocked on the door the parking lot stayed empty about 10 minutes later I saw the flashing lights from the police cars through the front window they pulled into the lot and I let out of breath I didn't even realize I'd

been holding the officers got out approached the car and looked around checking the area I stepped back from the door too scared to even look at them directly when they knocked on the door I Unlocked it and they came inside they asked me to explain everything and I showed them the note they told me it was good I called and that they would check the area but honestly I don't think they believed me they didn't find anything no other cars no one lurking in the rain just the empty car with its headlights still on like

someone had been waiting there forever they told me to keep the doors Locked and not to worry too much that it was probably a prank but I couldn't shake the feeling that it wasn't that note those words they hadn't felt like a joke the rest of the night passed quietly I didn't leave the diner until the morning and when I went back the next night everything was normal the parking lot was empty the lights were bright and there was nothing unusual about the place but I'll never forget that feeling the one that told me Someone

had been watching me I went on a solo trip last fall to explore some old camping spots it wasn't my first time hiking alone but this trip felt different from the start I had always wanted to check out this particular spot a cabin in the woods that was rumored to be abandoned it wasn't on any Maps but a friend had mentioned it once and I figured I could find it with just a Little off trail hike no one had been up there in years or at least that's what I thought I'd spent the day hiking

and was starting to get tired by the time I found the cabin it was small made of wood and looked like it had seen better days the roof was half collapsed in places and the windows were boarded up with old planks still it seemed solid enough and I figured I could take a break eat Something and maybe even stay the night there if I felt like it I stepped inside and it was musty but not too bad there was a small table in the middle some broken chair scattered around and the usual Decay you'd expect

from an old and used building there were cobwebs everywhere but the place was sheltered from the wind so I decided it would make a decent spot to rest for a bit I was sitting at the table trying to drink some water and warm up when I Noticed something pinned to the wall near the doorway at first I thought it was was just old paper maybe a forgotten note or something someone had left behind but when I got closer I realized it was more than that it was a handwritten note scrolled quickly but legibly the words

read you shouldn't have come here I froze my heart started racing and I Could feel the hairs on the back of my neck standing up I told myself I was overreacting it was probably just something left by some mother hiker maybe someone who felt the need to leave a mark still the message made me uneasy I turned my attention back to the cabin trying to shake off the weird feeling that had settled in but then I saw another note this one stuck to the wall near the Window I took a slow step forward and read

it leave now you're being watched I felt the blood drain from my face I stood there for for a moment not knowing what to do I was getting scared but I tried to convince myself that it was just a prank or some weird coincidence maybe it was just some messed up person who liked to leave notes like this in abandoned places I didn't want to leave though it Was late and the thought of walking back into the woods after dark was terrifying I needed to calm down so I took a deep breath and started looking

around the cabin again I looked at the small makeshift bed in the corner a few remnants of what looked like a camping stove on the floor and then I saw something else a map was pinned to the wall next to the door underneath the second note the map looked old handrawn with a Series of red marks and lines drawn on it it didn't make much sense at first but something caught my eye there was a trail marked with a red X near the bottom of the map and another note was taped underneath it I moved

closer and read it the writing was a bit messy now like the person was getting more frantic or maybe just annoyed if you follow the path you will find what you're looking for it will be waiting I could feel the blood pounding In my ears I didn't want to touch anything but I couldn't help myself I ran my finger over the map the X on the map was near the area I had hi through earlier in the day it wasn't far but why was it marked why did this person want me to go there and

who was leaving these notes I glanced around the cabin suddenly feeling like the walls were closing in something wasn't right and I felt the overwhelming urge to leave but Before I could gather my things I saw yet another note this one pinned under the window sill I hesitated ated for a long moment but finally I forced myself to walk over and read it it's too late they're already coming for you my heart slammed against my chest and I had no idea what to do this wasn't just some random prank anymore whoever had written these notes

knew I was here they knew where I was and they were telling me to leave but I Didn't know where to go I grabbed my backpack slamed shut and rushed to the door as I stepped outside I froze for the first time I could hear something the quiet Woods were gone there was a rustling sound not far from the cabin like someone or something was moving around in the trees my stomach Twisted in knots I turned back toward the cabin trying to steady my breathing my mind Raised should I go back should I stay inside

but now I couldn't I couldn't stay there any longer I bolted into the woods not knowing where I was going just running away from the cabin my legs burned from the effort and my mind wouldn't stop racing I kept telling myself I was being ridiculous that I was overthinking it but I couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong I heard footsteps Behind me it sounded like someone was following their steps too slow too deliberate matching my Pace I could feel them getting closer but when I looked behind there was no one there I picked

up the pace stumbling through the trees knowing I couldn't stop for a second I kept running until I couldn't hear anything except my own breath the darkness felt thicker than Before the trees closing in around me eventually I found a trail that led to the main road and sprinted Out of the Woods I kept looking over my shoulder but there was nothing following me anymore I didn't stop running until I reached my car my hands were shaking as I fumbled for the keys I didn't look back I didn't stop until I was safely driving down

the road away from the woods away from that cabin and away from Whatever had been waiting there for me I never went back to that place I don't know who left those notes or what they wanted but I know one thing for sure it wasn't a coincidence I won't be going back out there again it was just supposed to be another night at the St station I'd done the graveyard shift for years spinning SS for anyone who couldn't sleep or was out on the road The station was empty just me in the booth with my

headphones and a mug of cold coffee the studio lights were dim the hum of the equipment was all I heard between songs and the world outside felt a thousand miles away quiet just like I liked it that night started off normal I ran my usual segments read the weather made small talk with the mic tried to keep my energy up the station Had this ancient phone line where listeners could call in most nights I'd get maybe one or two people dialing usually just to make a s request or try to win a t-shirt we've been

giving away for years but that night around 2:00 in the morning the phone rang I picked it up expecting some lonely trucker looking for company on the road or a nightow with a random song request txrf you're on the air I said my usual line the voice on the other end was low Quiet like they were almost Whispering you're playing some good stuff tonight ah thanks I replied a bit caught off guard anything you want to hear the caller didn't answer that there was a pause long enough to make me uncomfortable then he said I

know you don't like the coffee there it took me a second to process that I glanced at my cup on the desk it was one of those things I'd say sometimes on air To fill the silence like when I joke about surviving off cold coffee it wasn't something a regular listener would think to mention yeah well it's not exactly cormet I said trying to laugh it off but something about The Silence on the line felt wrong the caller just said see you soon and H the line clicked dead before I could respond I brushed it

off telling myself it was probably just some random weirdo But that comment about the coffee stuck in my head I shook it off and kept the show going maybe half an hour later I forgot about it I got back into the Rhythm the usual mix of old rock and a few top 40 hits thrown in and by 3:00 in the morning I was barely awake counting down the minutes until my shift ended then the phone rang again I answered hesitating this time txrf you're on the air I said keeping my voice steady it was him

Again I like that last track you played he said and I recognized the voice right away glad you enjoyed it I said slowly anything else I can put on for you there was another pause and I could almost feel him listening to my every breath do you still park out back I nearly dropped the phone nobody should have known that I'd mentioned driving an old beat up sedan on air once but I'd never talked about where I Parked I always parked out back by the alley away from the front lights just out of habit who

is this I demanded feeling a bit of fear creep up my spine he didn't answer just laughed softly then hung up again this time I put the phone down slowly staring at it feeling that IR reach chill you get when something doesn't add up I told myself I was overreacting that it was just some Prank Caller but now every little sound in the Studio seemed louder the walls seemed closer the booth suddenly felt like a trap I went to the window and glanced out at the parking lot but there was nothing out there just my

car under a single street light the rest of the alley swallowed in Shadows the rest of the hour went by painfully slow every time a song ended I felt my skin prickle half expecting the phone to ring again but it stayed Silent just me my coffee and the dim glow of the studio equipment keeping me company I managed to shake off the fear convincing myself I'd imagine the whole thing but then just before my shift was over the phone rang again I felt this tightness in my chest as I picked it up like every muscle

in my body was telling me not to answer but I did and as soon as I heard his voice my blood went cold I saw you looking he said his voice Barely a whisper you won't find me who are you I demanded trying to keep my voice steady you know who I am he said and the worst part the the way he said it like he'd been right there watching me from the dark as I looked out into the empty Lot leave me alone or I'm calling the police I snapped he chuckled softly they can't

help you I slammed the phone down heart pounding and locked the Booth door out of instinct it was a ridiculous thing to do really I was the only one in the building and it was silent outside the booth but that didn't stop me from feeling like I was being watched every Creek and hum of the building felt magnified like someone was breathing just out of sight I didn't hear from him again that night I waited watching the clock until my shift ended and when it was finally Time to leave I rushed out barely looking over

my shoulder I kept expecting him to be standing out in the lot watching me with that soft knowing laugh but there was no one there I got in my car and drove home still feeling his voice echoing in my head I told myself it would be fine that it was just some random guy trying to mess with me but the next night it started all over again just as the shift was Settling in the phone laying I didn't even want to answer it but I forced myself to pick up txrf I said trying to sound

as normal as possible miss me his voice was soft like he was speaking right into my ear you didn't park out back tonight my heart nearly stopped I had parked in the front at night under the street light hoping it would make me feel Safer I hadn't seen anyone around when I walked in and yet somehow he knew I wanted to scream to tell him to leave me alone but I was frozen he kept calling night after night sometimes he talk telling me things he knew about me details that were small everyday things like the

color of my jacket or the type of Sandwich I'd brought in sometimes he didn't say anything at all just sat there breathing on the Other end of the line it was driving me insane one night I had enough I went down to the basement where the phone lines connected thinking I'd just pull the line and end it at least for the night I knew I'd get in trouble for for it but I couldn't take it anymore but as I reached the basement I froze there in the dim light I saw something on the floor a

crumpled piece of paper I picked it up hand Shaking written on it in small cramped handwriting was a single line I told you I'd be close I looked around feeling my throat tighten there was no one there but I could feel it some one had been there had left this for me I backed away heart rcing feeling like every shadow was hiding him like he could be anywhere I ran back upstairs locked myself in the booth and didn't leave until my shift was over when I finally Left that morning the sun was just coming up

and I couldn't shake the feeling that he was watching me somewhere close maybe even in the building I quit that job the next day I don't know who he was was or how he knew so much but I never wanted to find out every time I think about it I can still hear his voice low and soft whispering in my ear I don't know if he's still out there waiting I don't think I'll ever go back To find out I worked the night shift in a mortuary it wasn't glamorous but it paid the bills and

there was a kind of piece to it you're alone with the dead and they don't ask for much just keep things tidy make sure paperwork's in order and stay out of the way of cre leaving families one night it was around 2:00 a.m. and I was logging in entries in the visitor's book most people don't come by Late at night unless it's an emergency so I was surprised when the front door buzzer went off it was a man probably in his 50s dressed in a dark jacket cap pulled low over his face he looked tired

but calm I'm here to see my sister he said and he sounded quiet kind of sad I asked for her name and he said Margaret I flipped through the log but there was no Margaret on theist at least not in the last few Weeks I asked him to wait and went to check the records It's Not Unusual for someone to come in thinking they had permission to see a relative only to find out there was a mixup with the paperwork but there was no record of any Market I went back to the desk told him

there wasn't anyone by that name here and and he just stared at me looking confused are you sure he asked I was here just last Week I double checked nothing he sighed looked like he was thinking something over and then he thanked me and laughed I felt a little sorry for him thinking maybe he was just confused or maybe it was the stress of grief people forget things or think they remember something that didn't happen but then he came back the next night same time same tired look on his Face same request he didn't seem

frustrated or anything just determined I'm here to see my sister Margaret he said again like the night before hadn't even happened I checked the logs even though I knew I'd find the same result no Market no record of anyone related to him I told him the same thing as the night Before that there was no one here by that name he just nodded slowly looking disappointed and walked out without another word after that he showed up every night always around 2: a.m. always asking to see his sister he'd signed the visitors log each time but

there was never any paperwork to back up his visit and every night I had to tell him the same thing there was no one here by that name I started feeling uneasy about it there Was something strange about the way he looked at me he didn't argue or complain he just had this look this fixed stare like he was waiting for me to say something different like he thought I was hiding something from him one night after he left I decided to go through the records again I dug back weeks months no one named Margaret

had been here in ages but his signature was in the visitor's Log every night for the past week every night same time the next night I was ready to tell him he couldn't come back I figured he was some poor guy who' gotten his wires crossed or maybe he had memory issues I was nervous when he showed up again same routine same tired look but this time he seemed different his eyes were a little wild darting around the room like he was looking for something or someone he Looked at me almost pleading and asked are

you sure I know she's here I I just want to see her I shook my head tried to keep calm but I felt something heavy settle in my chest I told her no one by that name was here that I checked I could see his face tighten his jaw clench he didn't say anything anything just nodded and laughed but he looked Back as he went out the door and for a second I thought I saw something in his eyes a kind of Anor that was the first night I felt afraid he didn't come the next

night and I thought maybe he'd finally gotten the message but around 2: a.m. I went to log the entries and I saw his signature there clear as day same looping scrawl same time I stared at it trying to wrap my head around it I hadn't seen him come in the Door buser hadn't gone off I was the only one with a key the only one on shift but his name was in the log just like it had been every night before I checked the security footage expecting to see him walking like he always did but

there was nothing just me sitting at the desk the empty hallway behind behind me I rewound watched it again trying to find something Anything but there was no sign of him the following night I almost didn't want to go in but I needed the job I kept telling myself it was just a mistake some kind of glitch that I'd misremembered something around 2:00 a.m. the buser went off I went to the door and there he was standing in the entryway this time he didn't even ask he just stared at me his eyes tired and dark

like he hadn't slept in Weeks I know she's here he whispered I know you're keeping her from me I felt a chill crawl of my spine sir I said trying to keep my voice steady There's No One by that name here you have to leave he didn't move just kept staring like he was waiting for for me to break I tried to explain again said I checked the records that there was no Margaret but he just shook his head Slowly his eyes fixed on mine you don't understand he whispered she's here I saw her I

I know she's here I took a step back feeling my heart race please you have to go I said lot of this time he didn't argue didn't shout just looked at me his face a mixture of sadness and anger like he couldn't understand why I was lying to him then he turned and walked out and I Watched him disappear into the darkness outside that was the last time I saw him he never came back after that but every night at exactly 2 a.m. his signature would show up in the visitor's log the same looping scrawl

as if he'd been there all all along I left the job not long after that I couldn't shake the feeling that he was still out there still looking for her still waiting for someone to tell him the truth and sometimes late at night I Still feel like he's watching like he's waiting for me to slip up to finally tell him where she is it was one of those perfect summer days when everything felt alive I was at the annual Street Festival a massive event filled with music food stalls and colorful lights people bustled everywhere laughter

and chatter filling The Air I remember feeling light-hearted enjoying the sights and sounds as well As the vibrant atmosphere I wandered through the crowd sampling different foods trying some spicy tacos in a funnel cake that was far too sweet but absolutely delicious the festival was a blast and I was glad I had decided to come after a while I noticed a man standing a few feet away he was holding a camera pointing it in my direction I thought maybe he was a professional photographer capturing the Festival I waved thinking nothing of it but he didn't

wave back I brushed it off and continued to enjoy myself I moved toward a group of musicians playing Lively Tunes clapping along with the crowd the music was infectious and I lost myself in it laughing with strangers dancing a bit but then I felt a strange sensation like someone was watching me I glanced back and there was the same man still standing there still pointing the camera At me he was not close but he seemed to be adjusting his position to keep me in frame it made me uncomfortable but I told myself he was just

capturing the festival I turned away again trying to shake off the unease I walked deeper into the crowd but after a few moments I caught a glimpse of him again he had moved again still keeping a distance but always in line with me this time I could feel my heart rate Quickening I didn't know what to think I made my way toward a nearby food stand hoping to lose him in the crowd I ordered a lemonade taking a moment to collect myself but I could still see him through the throng of people he had shifted

to another spot but was still keeping an eye on me it felt like he was intentionally tracking my movements feeling a mix of annoyance and fear I decided to leave the stand and Head toward a busier area hoping the crowd would dissuade him I walked past a group of children playing with balloons and noticed a couple dancing to a nearby band I watched them for a moment and when I turned to continue walking there he was again he had somehow maneuvered himself even closer I could see the the focus in his eyes and it felt

like he was waiting for something I started to feel a heavy tread settling in my Stomach why was he following me was he some kind of creep I looked around trying to find someone to talk to anyone to outbreak the tension I decided to leave the main Festival area and headed toward a quieter section of the park I figured that if I could just get some space maybe I could shake him off I took a long route weaving through food stalls and for a moment I thought I was In the clear I found a little

alve with benches and decided to sit down for a minute but just as I got comfortable I looked up and saw him again standing at the edge of the Shadows he had a strange smile on his face as he continued to aim his camera at me I felt a wave of panic wash over me this was not just harmless photography something was off about him I stood up abruptly and walked away my Heart pounding I could hear the distant sounds of music and laughter fading as I moved further away from the festival I glanced back

and he was still there his gaze fixed on me never lowering the camera I knew I had to confront him I walked back toward the crowd a tremlin rushing through me I approached him directly and demanded to know what he wanted he looked taken aback as if I had Interrupted his Focus why are you following me I asked my voice shaking he just smiled still holding the camera and finally spoke you have an interesting face I felt a chill run down my spine what did that mean was he just some Oddball with a camera I

could feel anchor Rising mixed with fear I asked him again what do you want He hesitated then Shrugged just taking pictures I like people I shook my head backing always slowly this is not okay you need to stop he frowned slightly lowering his camera for the first time but he didn't move away it was like he was gauging my reaction waiting for me to turn my back I felt trapped I turned and headed back into the crowd Forcing myself to push through the throng of people not daring to look back I tried to keep moving

my heart racing weaving through Festival goers until I finally found a group of friends I recognized they were laughing oblivious to my distress I joined them forcing a smile on my face as I mingled trying to appear calm my friend surrounded me and I felt safer but I couldn't shake the feeling of being Watched I kept scanning the crowd half expecting to see him lurking in the background but I didn't after a while I began to relax enjoying the festivities once more I stayed with my friends until the sun began to set and the festival

started winding down as I walked to my car with my friends I felt relieved I had made it through the night without incident I couldn't stop thinking about That man in what his intentions were I never saw him again and I hoped I wouldn't the festival was supposed to be a joyful experience but it had turned into something sinister once I got into my car I locked the doors took a deep breath and drove away leaving that strange encounter behind I moved to a new neighborhood last summer looking for a fresh start after a tough

year thas were Charming lined with Trees and there was a sense of community that I hoped would help me feel at home I felt optimistic as I unloaded boxes from the moving truck the sun shining brightly overhead on my first evening a neighbor came by her name was Linda an older woman with a warm smile and a kind demeanor she brought over a plate of cookies freshly baked welcome to the neighborhood she exclaimed her voice Bright I thanked her happy to meet someone friendly the cookies were delicious and we chatted for a while I felt

good thinking this might be the start of something nice the next day a man named Tom knocked on my door he was in his 40s tall with a friendly face he introduced himself and handed me a small poted plant it's a gift for you just a little something to brighten your Home he said I appreciated the gesture though it felt a bit odd I had never received gifts from Neighbors before over the next week more neighbors came by a couple down the street gave me a bottle of wine while another family offered me homemade jam

I started to feel a little overwhelmed each gift was thoughtful yet there was something about the frequency and personal nature of these gestures that made me Uncomfortable I had just moved in and I hardly knew any of them I tried to be polite and accept their kindness yet I noticed how they seemed to know a bit too much about me one neighbor Sarah asked about my job as if she had been following my social media I had barely shared anything with anyone I brushed it off thinking it was just friendly curiosity but the way they

spoke made me uneasy as the days passed the gifts kept Coming a fruit basket appeared on my porch one morning another day I found a handmade quilt draped over my mailbox each time I returned home it felt like I was stepping into a strange World their gestures were meant to be warm but it began to feel suffocating one evening as I sat on my porch Tom came over again he stood too close and asked me personal questions about my life do you have any family Nearby friends I felt a knot tighten in my stomach I

answered politely but kept my distance I just wanted to enjoy the quiet but he did not seem to take the hint that weekend I decided to go for a walk to clear my head I thought a stroll would help me feel more settled as I walked through the neighborhood I noticed Linda was in her garden she waved and shouted come over For a class of lemonade I hesitated but felt it would be rude to refuse I walked over thinking a quick chat would be harmless when I arrived She Was preparing a large picture her yard

was filled with colorful flowers and it felt almost too perfect as we sat on her porch she asked me about my childhood it was strange to talk about My past with someone I barely knew as I finished my drink I noticed how Linda seemed to hang on to my every word her eyes wide with interest you know now you should come to our neighborhood barbecue next week she suggested everyone will be there it will be fun I smiled politely but did not commit I wanted to step back from all this that night I received a

text from Tom he asked if I would join him for Coffee the next day I had never given him my number it sent a chill down my spine I replied saying I was busy hoping he would understand the next day I found a note tape to my door from Sarah missed you at the garden party yesterday we will have to catch up soon it felt invasive I had no idea what garden party she was talking about I considered packing my things and leaving but I did not want to seem Dramatic as I tried to distance

myself the gifts only increased a knitted scarf appeared on my porch another time I found a box of chocolates left outside my door each time I felt the weight of their expectations pressing down on me I tried to avoid them but they would often stop by it felt as if I was trapped in a bizarre Social Web one afternoon I returned home to find a small group of neighbors waiting on my porch they were All smiles holding plates of food surprise they shouted they had prepare a welcome Feast I stood there stunned I appreciated their

intentions but it felt overwhelming I just wanted space a moment to breathe I attempted to express my gratitude but also my need for privacy thank you everyone but I think I need some time to settle in it is all Very kind but it's it is a bit much they nodded but I saw a flicker of disappointment in their eyes I thought that would be enough but the next day I found Linda waiting outside my house holding a casserole just wanted to check on you she said cheerfully I felt trapped I thanked her taking the dish

without looking her in the eyes I returned inside the casserole and My hands feeling like a weit I locked the door and leaned against it Breathing heavily it was becoming clear to me that my attempts to withdraw only seemed to pull them closer the following week I went grocery shopping in another town hoping for a little anonymity as I pushed my cart through the aisles I felt a sense of relief it was a small escape from the Constant reminders of my neighbors but as I turned a corner I nearly bumped into Tom he cred widely

and as if he had been expecting me fancy seeing you here we should grab lunch sometime he said his tone cheerful Panic rushed through me I really need to get going I replied quickly I could feel my heart pounding as I rushed past him the feeling of being hunted creeping back I had to get away from this All that night I sat in my living room trying to gather my thoughts I could not shake the feeling that the situation was escalating my phone buzzed it was a group message from my neighbors they planned a big

welcome party for me the date was set for the following weekend I felt my stomach drop I spent the next few days preparing to escape I packed Essentials and arrange For a friend to help me move I had to leave this place before it consumed me I did not want to confront them I wanted to slip away unnoticed on the day of the party I felt a mix of fear and relief as I loaded my car I glanced at the house expecting to see them Gathering outside but it was quiet I drove away feeling the

weight lift with each mile I did not look back once I reached my friend's place I felt free again the Stress melted away as I settled in knowing I had made the right choice it was strange to leave so suddenly but I knew I could not stay in that neighborhood it was too much too overwhelming eventually I found a new apartment far from those well-meaning but intrusive neighbors I could breathe again without the feeling of being watched I learned that kindness can Sometimes feel like a cage and it was better to choose Solitude than be

surrounded by a crowd that would not let go it started with a small box no bigger than my hand left on my doorstep one Saturday morning no note no returning addess just a plain unmarked cardboard box sitting there when I opened my door to grab the mail at first I thought it was a mistake something delivered to the wrong house But when I picked it up there was no name on it nothing written on it at all I'm used to getting deliveries who isn't these days but this was different no company logo no tracking number

just there I figured maybe it was from a neighbor someone who thought it was mine and dropped it off I Shrugged and brought it inside inside the box there was an old rusted key nothing Else just the key I stared at it for a while confused it wasn't a key I recognized certainly not to my house or anything I owned I checked the bottom of the Box thinking maybe there'd be a note or something to explain where it came came from but there was nothing I was creeped out but I told myself it was probably

some weird mistake people get stuff like that all the time right I left it on my kitchen Counter and went about my day trying not to think about it but the thought kept creeping back in I mean why would someone send me a random key what was it for a few days passed and I almost forgot about the whole thing but then another package showed up same plain cardboard box same spot on my doorstep no markings no return address this one was bigger about the size of a shoe box by then I was feeling Uneasy

this wasn't just a one-off mistake someone was leaving these packages for me and I had no idea why I brought it inside and I hesitated for a moment before opening it inside was something I recognized immediately an old sweater I'd lost months ago I had looked everywhere for it and eventually gave up figuring I must have left it somewhere or accidentally donated it but here it was folded neatly inside this unmarked Box I felt a chill run down my spine how did they get this and why return it now like this my first thought was

that maybe be someone found it and was returning it but then why not just leave a note why all the mystery I checked my front yard looked down the street even peaked around the side of my house nothing no one ins sight I sat in my living room for a While just staring at the box and the sweater trying to wrap my head around what was happening I didn't feel like I was in danger not yet but it was unsettling to say the least a week went by without any new packages and I started to

relax I almost convinced myself that it was some weird coincidence or maybe a prank but then one night when I came home from work there was another box Waiting for me this one was different bigger than the last two heavier I didn't even want to bring it inside I stood on the porch for what felt like forever staring at it my heart pounding in my chest I knew I shouldn't open it but I also knew I couldn't just leave it there I took a deep breath crapped it and went inside I sat at my kitchen

table with a box in front of me hands shaking as I Cut through the tape when I opened the lid I felt like the air had been sucked out of the room inside was a framed photo of me sitting on my couch in my living room it was taken from outside inside my house through the window I dropped the box and backed away my heart racing this wasn't just some prank someone had been in my yard someone had been watching me I rushed to the window and yanked the curtains closed my mind Racing who was

doing this and why I double check that all the doors were locked that the windows were shut tight I couldn't breathe I didn't sleep that night every noise every Creek had me on edge I sat on the couch with my phone in my hand ready to call someone if I heard anything out of the ordinary but the house was quiet too quiet like I was waiting for something to happen the next day I called the Police I didn't want to seemed paranoid but I knew I had to report it they came over looked at the

boxes and asked me a bunch of questions but there wasn't much they could do no fingerprints no leads they told me to call if it happened again and to stay vigilant it did happen again 2 Days Later another box this time I didn't even want to open it I stared at it for hours my stomach And Knots but I knew I couldn't ignore it whoever was doing this wasn't going going to stop I had to know what they wanted inside the box was something I had noticed was missing a pair of earrings I used to

her all the time I hadn't seen them in months and assumed I'd misplaced them but here they were needly placed inside the box like someone had been in my house and taken Them without me knowing I felt sick how long had this been going on how many other things had disappeared without me noticing I searched the house looking for anything else that seemed out of place but everything else seemed normal I didn't know what to do the police couldn't help and I didn't have any clues to go on I thought about staying in a friend's

place but I didn't Want to drag anyone else into this I started leaving all the lights on at night checking the locks obsessively but it didn't help the fear followed me everywhere the packages kept coming little things at first more personal items that had gone missing old letters a photo from my childhood each time it felt like whoever was doing this was getting closer like they were taunting me the breaking point came about a month Later I came home one evening exhausted from work and found another box waiting for me this one was different it

was larger than any of the others heavy and awkward to carry inside I didn't want to open it I knew something was wrong but I had to know I had to see what was inside when I finally opened the box my blood ran cold it was a blanket from my bed the one I had slept under the night before I dropped the Box my heart Pounding in my chest someone had been in my house while I was sleeping someone had been watching me moving around my home while I lay there completely unaware I didn't know

what to do I called the police again but they didn't have any answers they said they Patrol the area but I knew that wouldn't be enough whoever was doing this wasn't Going to stop they were getting Boulder that night I couldn't sleep I barricaded myself in my bedroom with a chair wedged under the door handle clutching my phone in my hand every little sound made me jump I was certain they were coming back around 3:00 a.m. I heard something outside footsteps slow deliberate I froze barely breathing straining to hear the footsteps stopped Just outside my

front door I heard a soft scraping sound like someone was dragging something across the porch then silence I Waited For What felt like hours but nothing else happened eventually I worked up the courage to check the window there was another box on the porch larger than any of the others I didn't open it I didn't want to Know what was inside the next morning I packed up and left I couldn't stay there anymore whoever had been doing this had crossed a line they were inside my house in my life and I had no idea how

to stop them I moved out of the house a week later never look back I don't know who it was or why they targeted me I still get paranoid sometimes wondering if they'll find me again but I'm safe for Now at least I hope I am I was at the train station late one night around 11:30 I remember the time because I kept looking at my watch hoping the train would just get here already the station was completely empty not a single person around except for me it was cold and the kind of Silence that

settles in the middle of the night made it worse somehow the lights above flickered a bit but that's Normal for a place like this I was standing on the platform waiting for the last train I had to work late and by the time I got to the station all the buses had stopped running I didn't have much of a choice i' taken the late train before and nothing ever happened it's always empty just a few people minding their own business I paced back and forth checking the time on my phone hoping it wouldn't Get delayed

I looked down the platform and noticed someone standing there at the far end just barely in the light I hadn't heard them come up they were just there I figured it was just another person waiting for the train rain but something about it didn't sit right with me the figure was facing me but they weren't moving just standing still staring I couldn't make out any details Because of the distance but I could feel their eyes on me the platform stretched out in both directions with no real way to go except forward or back toward the

station entrance and that person was at the far end blocking one way I thought about walking back to the entrance but it would have meant turning my back to them and something about that made me uncomfortable so I stayed where I was Trying not to look directly at them but it was hard not to my heart started racing a little though I tried to tell myself it was nothing they were probably just waiting for the train like I was a few minutes passed maybe longer and I couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong I

looked again and that person was still there hadn't moved an inch not one step I could have sworn they were closer now though like they'd shifted just Slightly I wasn't sure I pulled my phone out pretending to scroll through it but my eyes kept flicking back to the figure the train wasn't due for another 5 minutes 5 minutes felt like forever at that moment I told myself to relax to just keep cool and wait it out people wait for trains that's what they do I thought no big deal but then the Figure started to move

at first it was just a step slow deliberate then another step they were walking toward me not fast but steady I froze not knowing what to do there was no one else on the platform just me and this person I I wanted to convince myself it was nothing maybe they were just coming closer for the train maybe they wanted to ask for the time but they didn't Stop I could feel my breath catching in my throat my hands starting to sweat I glanced behind me toward the exit but it was a long way back I

was too far down the platform the figure kept coming their steps quickening Panic hit me then hard I could see the shape of him now A Man Tall with broad shoulders I couldn't see his face clearly under the flickering lights I Could feel his eyes locked on me he started moving faster his Pace picking up until he was practically jogging that's when I knew this wasn't normal this wasn't just some guy walking toward the train this guy was coming for me I backed up looking for anywhere to go anywhere to hide but the platform form

was wide open I was exposed nowhere to go except the edge of the tracks my heart was pounding in my chest and I could hear my blood rushing in my Ears the only thing between me and him was the empty space of the platform and he was closing the Gap fast I looked down the track hoping to see the train lights praying for them to appear but the tunnel was dark no sign of the train I didn't have time to think anymore he was running now fullon sprinting toward me his feet pounding against the concrete

I could hear it each step getting louder and Louder I took a step back my legs stiff with fear then I turned and ran but there was nowhere to go I couldn't make it to the exit in time he' catched me before I got halfway there my only chance was to jump down onto the tracks and try to cross to the other platform it was risky but it was all I could think of I reached the edge of the platform and looked down the tracks were deeper than they seemed and I hesitated For just a

second but that second cost me I heard him behind me getting closer his footsteps were right there I could feel him almost breathing down my neck I jumped the fall wasn't graceful I had to Grapple hard stumbling as I landed but I managed to stay on my feet I could hear him above me now shouting something I couldn't make out his voice horse and Angry he was right there at the edge of the platform looking down at me I didn't look up at his face didn't want to see it I ran along the tracks my

legs burning the cold air cutting through me my shoes slipped on the metal rails and I almost fell I I could hear him drop down onto the tracks behind me he was following me not stopping not giving up his footsteps were heavy crunching the gravel under his weight I could see the lights of the Train now far down the tunnel but it was coming relief washed over me but I wasn't safe yet the train was still a ways off and I was stuck on the tracks I had to get off before it reached me I

scrambled to the opposite platform trying to climb back up my hand slipped on the cold concrete and I couldn't get a good grip my fingers were numb shaking I felt the man's presence behind me getting Closer he wasn't running anymore just walking toward me slow like he had all the time in the world like he knew I couldn't get away I forced myself up pulling with everything I had and finally managed to get back onto the platform my niece hit the concrete heart but I didn't stop I got up and ran toward the exit Not

Looking Back the train was pulling in as I reached the stairs I heard it screeching to a stop The doors opening the rush of air as it slowed down I kept running my feet barely touching the ground I didn't stop until I was back at the station entrance where there were lights and people and safety I don't know if he followed me all the way I don't know if he got on the train I didn't look back but I never took the Late Night Train again I didn't really know what I was giving Into when

I decided to camp out there alone I've gone camping before but never by myself I figured it would be a good way to clear my head for the weekend just me the trees and some quiet the site I picked wasn't far off the beaten path about a 20-minute hike from where I parked the car it wasn't an official campsite just a clearing I'd found on a trail map I like that the idea of being away from people out in The middle of nowhere the first night was fine I set up the tent started a fire

cooked some food everything felt peaceful the woods were calm and the sounds of the night animals were kind of comforting I spent a few hours by the fire just watching the Flames listening to the crackling enjoying the Stillness around me it was dark but not too dark the moon was bright enough to light up The clearing I stayed up until the fire started to die down then crawled into my tent zipped it up and fell asleep without much trouble I don't know what woke me up the next morning I didn't hear anything didn't feel anything

but something was off you know how sometimes you just get that feeling like something's not quite right that's what it Was I woke up with this weird sense that something was wrong but I couldn't figure out what it was quiet too quiet for mourning in the woods usually there'd be Birds maybe some rustling but it was dead silent I unzipped the tent and stepped outside rubbing my eyes trying to shake the grogginess the sun was up but it hadn't been long the fire pit was cold no umbers left just some charred logs and Ash I

looked around and that's when I saw it there was a mark on the side of my tent at first I thought maybe it was just dirt or something but when I got closer I realized it wasn't natural it was a symbol scratched into the fabric with something sharp Like a Knife it was about the size of my hand and it looked like an X but with these rear curls coming off the ends almost like claws I knelt down running my fingers over it trying to figure out how it got there my heart started pounding a

little I knew for a fact that Mark wasn't there when I sat at the tent I would have noticed it it was deep enough that I should have heard something during the night but I hadn't no sounds No footsteps nothing someone had been out here near my tent while I was asleep I stood up and scanned the clearing but everything looked normal no sign of anyone just the trees the dirt the fire pit I tried to calm myself down telling myself it was probably just some prank maybe someone had passed through the woods during the

night saw my tent and decided to mess with me that had to be it no big deal right but the more I thought about it the less sense that made the Mark wasn't Random it wasn't like someone had just scribbled on my tent it was precise like they' taken their time with it I felt that uneasy knot in my stomach growing but I forced myself to keep it together I decided to pack up and leave no point in sticking around if someone was messing with me I threw everything into my backpack not bothering to fold

up the tent properly just stuffing it in as fast as I could I wanted to get out of there get back to My car and go home but when I got to my car the tires were slashed all four of them deep Cuts Like someone had taken a knife and just stabbed right through the rubber my heart sank I stood there staring at the car my mind racing I was in the middle of nowhere no self signal no way to call for help even if I tried to walk back to the main road it would

take hours and there was no Guarantee anyone would pass by I wasn't thinking straight I should have been scared but I was more Angry than anything who the hell would do something like this what kind of person follows someone into the woods just to mess with their car mess with their tent I turned around and started heading back to the campsite figuring I'd at least scrap the rest of my stuff maybe I could try to walk to a ranger Station or at least find somewhere with a signal but when I got back to the clearing

I stopped dead in my tracks the tent was open the Zipper was pulled all the way down and my sleeping bag was dragged halfway out like someone had been Ling through it I hadn't left it like that I was sure of it I backed up my AR pounding now adrenaline kicking in my mind was racing trying to figure out what to do should I Hide run but where would I go I was in the middle of the woods miles from anyone that's when I heard the sound it was faint but it was there footsteps crunching

leaves coming from somewhere behind the trees slow deliberate like someone was trying to be quiet but wasn't quite succeeding I couldn't see anyone but the sound was getting Closer I didn't wait to find out who it was I CED my backpack the one thing I had left and bolted I didn't care which direction I went I just needed to get away my legs were moving faster than they ever had but the trees seemed to close and around me making it harder to move I could hear the footsteps behind me still there still following I did

stop running until I couldn't hear the footsteps Anymore my lungs were burning my legs shaking but I didn't dare stop I kept going weaving through the trees trying to find my way back to the trail back to the car I wasn't even thinking straight at this point just running on pure instinct when I finally made it back to the trail I collapsed against a tree gasping for air I listened straining to hear any sign of footsteps but it was quiet again too Quiet the woods felt wrong like they were watching me I stayed there for

a while trying to catch my breath trying to figure out what to do I couldn't go back to the car now with the tires slashed I didn't want to go back to the campsite either whoever was out there they knew I was alone they knew I couldn't leave eventually I started walking sticking to the trail hoping it would Lead me somewhere anywhere I don't know how long I walked but it felt like hours my legs were numb my mind blank just focused on putting one foot in front of the other when I finally reached the

main road I almost cried there was no one around but I knew I was closer to help I followed the road sticking to the shoulder keeping an eye out for any cars it was a long walk but eventually a Pickup truck came down the road and I waved it down the driver was an older guy probably in his 50s with a kind face he asked if I needed help and I just nodded too exhausted to explain everything he gave me a ride to the nearest town where I finally managed to call for help I never

found out who it was the police said they'd look into it but they didn't seem too concerned probably just kids they said but I know what I heard what I Saw someone was out there watching me waiting for me to make a mistake I haven't been camping since I had always liked small town fairs there's something about the smell of fried food the bright lights and the noise of the crowds that makes you feel like a kid again this year I was traveling for work and I found myself in one of those towns that barely

sh shows up on a map it just so happened they were having their annual fair and since I didn't have much else to do I decided to check it out the fairgrounds were on the edge of town a big open field with a few rides gain booths and a stage where a local band was playing it wasn't as flashy as the big city fairs but it had its own charm there were families with kids running around couples holding hands and groups of teenagers laughing and shoving each other near of the bumper cars I bought a

ticket at the gate and Wandered in figuring I'd grab something to eat and maybe try a few games as I walked past a booth where a man was calling out for people to win a stuffed bear I noticed him a man standing off to the side just outside the main crowd he wasn't doing anything just watching his face was pale almost sickly and he wore a long coat that seemed too heavy for the warm night his eyes were fixed on me it was the kind of stare That makes you uncomfortable like he knew something about

me that I didn't I Shrugged it off telling myself he was probably just some guy zoning out and went to get a corn dog I spent the next hour or so wandering around the fair trying out some of the games and watching the rides I even went on the ferris wheel which gave me a good view of the whole place it was nice peaceful even but every now and then I caught sight of That man again he wasn't close but he was there always just far enough away that I couldn't really make out his face

but I knew it was him the coat the way he stood arms hanging at his sides watching it started to get to me after a while I couldn't shake the feeling that he was following me I told myself it was just paranoia that it was a small small fair and it made sense to see the same people more than once but as the night Went on it got harder to ignore every time I turned around he was there not saying anything not getting closer just standing still staring I tried to lose myself in the crowd

moving between rides and booths but no matter where I went he was there I tried going into the fun house figuring the mirrors in dark corners would throw him off but when I came out he was waiting near the exit standing next to a group of teenagers who seemed Completely unaware of him I started to get this tight feeling in my chest like the walls were closing in it wasn't crowded anymore families were heading home and the groups of teenagers had thinned out the fair was winding down and most people were near the stage watching

the band the farther I got from the main area the quiet it got until it was just me and the arm of the rots in the distance that's when I saw him again Only this time he wasn't just watching he was moving toward me I stopped walking my heart pounding he was coming straight for me his hands shoved into the pockets of his coat his face was still hard to make out in the dim light but I could see enough his eyes were locked on me his mouth set in a grim line I turned and

walked quickly in the opposite direction trying to keep my Pace steady I didn't want to run not yet not Until I was sure but I could hear him behind me his footsteps crunching in the dirt getting faster I glanced over my shoulder and that's what I knew he was running I broke into a Sprint dodging between the booths and trying to head back toward the entrance but the lights from the fair seemed farther away now like the whole place had shifted while I wasn't looking my HS burned and my legs felt like they Were moving

through water I didn't know where I was going only that I had to get away I turned a corner and found myself in a part of the fairground that hadn't been set up with booths or rides it was just empty space dark and quiet my breath was coming in raged gasps and I slowed down trying to listen I couldn't hear his footsteps anymore but I knew he was close I looked around trying to find a Way out but there was nothing just shadows and silence then I heard it soft at first like the wind moving

through the grass but it wasn't the wind it was his voice you shouldn't have come here the words were low almost a whisper but they sent a chill down my spine I didn't know where he was but he was close close too close I started backing up my eyes scanning the darkness trying to find him Then out of the corner of my eye I saw movement he was standing just a few feet away half hidden in the shadows his face was twisted in a sneer and his eyes were wild I just want to go I

said my voice shaking I don't want any trouble he didn't answer just took a step toward me I stumbled back my hand shaking and nearly fell I had to get out of there but every direction I looked seemed like a dead End the fair was just a distant blur of Lights now too far away he took another step then another his hands came out of his pockets and I saw the Clint of something metal in the dim light a knife I didn't think I just ran I don't know how long I ran for but it

felt like hours my legs were burning my lungs felt like they were going to burst but I kept Going I could hear him behind me his footsteps pounding the ground getting closer I rounded a corner and saw the lights of the fair again the sound of the band echoing in the distance I wasn't far now but my legs felt like lead I pushed myself harder ignoring ignoring the pain ignoring the fear I had to make it I burst out of the dark back into the main area of the fair there were still people around still

enough light and noise to make me feel Like I had a chance I kept running not stopping until I reached the entrance the ticket booth was empty now and the gates were wide open I didn't look back I didn't want to know if you was still behind me I got to my car my hand shaking so badly I could barely get the keys out of my pocket I fumbled with the lock glancing over my shoulder every few seconds half Expecting him to appear out of the darkness but he didn't I got in started the engine

and drove I didn't stop until I was Miles Away the lights of the fairlong behind me I don't know who he was or what he wanted maybe he was just some local who didn't like Outsiders or maybe he was something worse but I didn't care I was safe now and that was all that mattered but I'll never forget the look in his eyes or the way he whispered Those words like he was daring me to run like he knew I wouldn't make it out I was driving along on a long stretch of highway the kind

where you don't see another car for Miles the trip was supposed to be a straight shot but I'd left later than I planned and ended up driving through the night I didn't mind it first it was quiet peaceful even but as the hours dragged on my eyelids got heavier and I knew I needed a break It was close to midnight when I saw the lights of a diner ahead there wasn't much else around just empty road and darkness so the glowing sign felt like a relief Darlene's Diner it said it looked like the kind of

place that probably hadn't changed in decades old neon sign a row of booths along the windows and a counter with swivel stools I pulled into the lot the gravel crunching under my tires and parked near the Entrance inside the place was mostly empty except for a few people scattered at the tables the Bell above the door jingled as I walked in and a woman behind the counter immediately smiled at me too wide like she'd been waiting for me evening Han she said her voice sugary sweet just you tonight I nodded and took a seat at

one of the booths by the window it was quieter in there than I Expected the kind of quiet that makes your ears rain the air felt heavy like the whole place was holding its breath the woman behind the counter Darlene I guess from the sign came over with a menu but I didn't need to look at it I just wanted coffee something to keep me awake just coffee please I said she gave me another white smile and headed back behind the counter I glanced around feeling uneasy for reasons I couldn't quite Explain there were maybe

four other people in the diner all sitting at different tables none of them were eating in fact they weren't doing anything at all just sitting there staring ahead their eyes blank I tried not to make a contact with them but it was hard not to notice one man sat in a Booth across from me his hands resting on the table completely Still his eyes didn't move didn't blink he was staring directly at me I shifted in my seat feeling the hairs on the back of my neck stand up Darlene came back with my coffee setting

it down in front of me with a soft clink I tried to give her a polite smile but it felt forced the whole place was off like stepping into a dream where nothing quite Mak sense where are you headed Darlene asked lingering by my Table just passing through I said taking a sip of the coffee it was bitter and lukewarm but I didn't care I just wanted to leave she nodded slowly like she knew more than she was letting on not many folks come through here this time of night I didn't know what to say

to that so I just nodded and clim gled out the window hoping the conversation would end the diner's parking lot was empty except for my car And beyond that was just darkness no other buildings no street lights just the road disappearing into the black I started to feel trapped like the walls were closing in on me the silence in the diner was deafening now the air heavy with something I couldn't name I glanced back at the other customers and my stomach turned when I realized they were all looking at me every single one of them

their faces were blank but their Eyes were fixed on me unblinking I looked down at my coffee trying to steady my breathing maybe I was just tired maybe my mind was playing tricks on me but when I looked up again they were still staring everything all right Han Darlene's voice made me jump she was standing behind the the counter her hands resting on it as she watched me closely too closely I'm fine I said my voice a Little shaky I think I'll get the check her smile didn't falter but something changed in her eyes she

didn't move you sure you don't want anything to eat we make a great pie now I'm good really I said standing up quickly I cracked my jacket ready to leave but when I turned toward the door my art stopped the door was locked I hadn't noticed it when I came In but now there was a heavy chain looped through the handles secured with a padlock I turned back to Darlene my mouth dry why is the door locked she didn't answer right away just kept smiling at me like nothing was wrong oh don't worry about that

it's for your own safety lots of strange folks out on the road at night I took a step back my Pulse racing I think I'd like to go now Darlene tilted her head her smile never leaving her face you haven't finished your coffee I looked around desperate for a way out the other customers hadn't moved still sitting there like mannequins their eyes locked on me my hands were shaking but I tried to keep my voice steady unlocked the door Darlene didn't Move instead she walked over to the counter her heels clicking on the tile and

picked up a phone she held it in her hand watching me I'll just give our friend a call he'll want to know you're here I didn't wait to hear the rest I bolted for the back of the diner hoping there was another exit my heart was pounding in my chest my mind racing there had to be a way out there had to Be I ran past the kitchen the smell of crease and old food hanging in the air and pushed open a door that led to a narrow hallway at the end of it I saw

a door marked exit I nearly cried with relief as I sprinted toward it but when I reached it and pushed on the handle it didn't budge the door was locked just like the front Panic set in real and Sharp I pounded on the door hoping maybe someone outside could hear me but I knew it was pointless there was no one around for Miles I turned around my back against the door trying to catch my breath that's when I heard the footsteps slow deliberate coming down the hallway it was one of the men from the diner

the one who had been sitting closest to me he was walking toward me His face blank his eyes fixed on mine Darlene says you should come back he said his voice flat emotionless I backed away my hands fumbling for something anything to defend myself with but there was nothing just a dead end and a locked door he kept coming his eyes never leaving mine I didn't know what he was going to do but I wasn't going to wait to find out I ran past him back into the diner Hoping maybe I could smash a window

or find something heavy to break the lock on the door but when I got back to the front Darlene was waiting for me her smile gone now replaced with something colder darker she was holding a set of keys in her hand dangling them in front of her like bait you're not leaving until he gets here she said her voice low you might as well sit down I felt the room spinning my vision Narrowing who was he what did they want with me I didn't tear I just wanted out without thinking I grabed a chair and

swung it at the window shattering the glass the sound was deafening but I didn't stop to look back I climbed through the broken window cutting my hands on the shards and ran to my car the crapple crunched under my feet feet as I fumbled for my keys my hands slick With blood and sweat I jumped into the car started the engine and peeled out of the lot not daring to look back as I sped down the highway the diner's lights disappeared into the distance swallowed by the darkness I didn't stop driving until the sun came

up I had always wanted to escape the city for a while just to breathe and find some quiet so when I discovered a Quin Cottage for rent in the countryside I booked it without hesitation the pictures looked idyllic with rolling Hills and a small stream nearby I imagined peaceful mornings with coffee and afternoon spent wanding I was excited to finally take a break when I arrived the cottage was even more Charming than I had expected it had wooden beans in a fireplace that looked like it belonged in a fairy tale the owner meant me to

Hand over the keys he was a friendly older man his face lined with years of sun and smiles he told told me to make myself at home that I could explore the grounds and even showed me a little garden behind the cottage everything felt perfect the first night was Serene I cooked dinner and sat by the fire listening to the sounds of nature outside I fell asleep easily wrapped in The warmth of the blanket and the quiet around me the next day was much the same filled with light and the fragrance of wild flowers I

went for a long Long Walk enjoying the Stillness taking pictures of everything that caught my eye as the sun dipped low in the sky I settled down again feeling completely at peace that night however things began to change I woke up to an odd sound a scratching noise coming from somewhere Above it was faint but it pulled me from my sleep I listened closely trying to determine what it was it sounded like something was moving shifting or perhaps even scraping against wood my heart began to race I told myself it was just the old house

settling but the sounds continued they came and went like Whispers in the Night I tried to ignore it turning over and Burying my head in the pillow yet the scratching persisted and I could feel a knot tightening in my stomach I looked at the clock it was almost 3: in the morning morning I could not shake the feeling that something was wrong the next morning I hesitated before getting out of bed the scratching had stopped but I still felt uneasy I decided I needed to ask the owner about it maybe there was some Explanation I

drove to the small shop in the village where he worked he was behind the counter sorting through items hello again he said smiling as I approached how was your first night I smiled back but could not hide the concern in my voice I heard some strange noises coming from the attic last night is there a way to check he Frowned attic there is no Attic in that Cottage just the main floor in a small basement I stared at him puzzled no attic but I heard something up there it sounded like like something was moving he

Shrugged a slight laugh as steeping his lips old houses make noises it is probably just the wind or some Critter outside do not worry about it I wanted to feel reassured but I did not I thanked him and left the shop Feeling the une Crow inside me that evening I returned to the cottage I tried to relax reminding myself of the beauty of the countryside and the reason I had come I cooked a simple meal and settled in front of the fire but I could not shake the feeling of being watched as night fell I

heard the sounds again the scratching the scuffling it felt closer this time I wrapped a Shaw around my shoulders Trying to summon courage I moved from the living room toward the staircase every Creek of the floorboards echoing in the Stillness the sound seemed to come from above more insistent now almost angry I stood at the bottom of the stairs staring into the darkness hello I called my voice barely above a whisper no answer came just a persistent scratching I took a deep breath and Ascended the steps slowly each step creaked under my weight the sound

amplifying my anxiety why reached the top I found myself in a small hallway there were two doors one leading to a bedroom and the other to a bathroom the scratching was louder now coming from behind the door to the bedroom I hesitated my heart racing I had to know I turned the knob and pushed the Door open the room was dark the window covered with thick curtains I flicked on the light and scanned the space nothing appeared out of the ordinary the bed was neatly made a small dresser against the wall the scratching stopped I

stepped inside feeling foolish I was ready to convince myself it was just my imagination when I noticed something on the floor a small trapo barely noticeable Was hidden beneath the edge of the bed my pulse quickened again crouching down I gripped the handle and pull it creeped open revealing a dark space below the air that escaped was cool and stale I hesitated wondering if I should look inside the sounds had stopped but a part of me urged caution I could feel something deep inside telling me not to go further instead I decided to leave it

Alone and went back to the living room I tried to watch television but my mind kept drifting back to that trap door what was down there my curiosity nodded me but fear held me back I finally decided to sleep with the lights on hoping for a peaceful rest that night was different I slept fitfully constantly waking up to listen for any sounds as Morning Light broke through the curtains I felt a sense of Relief the scratching had not returned but I still felt on edge I packed my bags and decided to leave early before driving

away I stopped at the shop again the owner was still there sorting through items I took a breath Gathering my thoughts I heard strange noises last night it felt like something was in the cottage he raised an eyebrow surprised you really must be imagining things I promise there is nothing to Worry about I nodded forcing a smile I felt like I was the only one who had experienced this I drove away glancing back at the cottage one last time the unease still lingered but I was relieved to be leaving when I reached home I could

finally relax I promised myself I would never book a cottage again without thoroughly checking it out as days passed I put the experience Behind me yet late one night all settling into bed I heard a faint scratching noise outside my window I sat straight up heart rcing I shook my head trying to convince myself it was just a branch against the glass I looked outside and for a moment I thought I saw a shadow move I turned on the light breathing deeply I had Escape The Cottage but something about the weekend stayed with Me I

never forgot the trapo or the scratching I realize that sometimes it is better not to know What Lies Beneath the surface I was at the hospital waiting for my friend Sarah she was in for a minor surgery nothing too serious but I promised to be there for her it was late in the evening and the waiting room was empty except for me I'd been there for a while just scrolling through my phone trying to keep my mind off the ticking Clock on the wall that's when I noticed him an older man maybe in his 70s

was sitting across from me I hadn't seen him come in one minute I was alone and then there he was just sitting there looking at me with this strange sort of focus he wore an old gra suit the kind people don't were much anymore and his face was lined worn like he'd seen a lot at first I thought maybe he was waiting for someone too so I didn't pay him much attention but he tapped St staring after A while I started to feel uneasy I looked up met his eyes and he smiled it wasn't a

friendly smile though it was a knowing smile like he recognized me like he had a secret he wanted to share you look just like her he said his voice soft like he was talking more to himself than to me I gave a small polite smile now wanting to engage but he didn't seem to need an invitation I'm sorry do I know You I asked hoping he'd say no and go back to whatever he was doing but he leaned forward his eyes narrowing as he studied my face oh you're her I knew at the moment I

saw you you haven't changed a bit he said almost like he was accusing me I tried to laugh it off I think you might have me confused with someone else I said hoping that would be the end of it but he shook his Head his smile fading no no it's you it's really you he said his voice stronger this time after all these years you've come back there was something about the way he looked at me that made my skin crawl his eyes were dark too dark like he was seeing something Beyond me something he

wouldn't let me see I looked around hoping there was a nurse or someone nearby but the waiting room was empty and the hallway was dark It was late and most of the staff had gone home for the night I thought about getting up maybe finding somewhere else to sit but he was blocking my way to the door listen I said keeping my voice steady I really don't know you he tilted his head studying me as if he was waiting for me to remember something do you remember that night he asked his voice barely a whisper

now the dance the music the Lights you were a blue dress it was beautiful my heart started racing I had no idea what he was talking about but the way he described it the way he spoke to me it felt like he was trying to pull me into some memory that didn't belong to me I think you've got the wrong person I said again more firmly this time and I stood up trying to keep calm as I looked for a way out but he reached out grabbed my wrist Before I could move his hand was

cold like he'd been standing in a freezer don't leave he said his voice search and now almost pleading you left once don't leave me again I pulled my hand back hard and he let go but his eyes stayed on me sharp intense filled with something I couldn't understand I stumbled back my heart pounding and turned to go find a nurse someone who could help me as I moved toward the door He called after me his voice calm again like he hadn't just grabbed me they won't help you he said softly they never saw me then

either I hurried out into the hallway looking for anyone but it was empty the nurse's station was dark and the Halls were quiet I spotted a single nurse down the hall and rushed over to her there's a man in the waiting room I said breathless he's he keeps saying I'm Someone he knows he crabbed me she looked at me with concern but then she glanced past me back toward the waiting room and her expression changed there's no one there she said almost like she was reassuring herself I turned to look but the waiting room was

empty the man was gone not a trace of him anywhere I knew I hadn't imagined it I could still feel the chill of his hand On my wrist like an icy burn he was there right there an older man in a gray suit I insisted but the nurse shook her head I've been here all night she said looking at me like I might be a little off I would have seen him I tried to explain to tell tell her how he'd spoken to me how he seemed so certain I was someone he knew but she

just patted my arm and told me to take a seat that maybe I was just tired from waiting but As I walked back to the waiting room my head was spinning the man was gone but I still felt his eyes on me like he was there somewhere watching I sat down trying to calm myself but the seat across from me felt like it still held his presence as if he'd only just left I wrapped my arms around myself feeling colder than I should have and checked my phone willing time to pass Faster wanting Sarah to

be done so I could leave about an hour later Sarah's doctor came out to tell me she was fine and recovering and I nearly ran to her room just to get away from the waiting area she was crocky but awake and I tried to play it off telling her I just had a weird wait but she noticed I was shaking and asked if everything was okay just some guy I said trying to laugh it off but my voice Cracked he thought I was someone else kept calling me by some other name talking about things that

never happened Sarah looked at me her eyes narrowing was he old Cay suit she asked her voice quiet my heart dropped yeah how her face went pale I saw him too I thought he was a janitor or something just standing in the hall outside my room he was looking at me staring like he knew me I tried to say Hi but he just kept staring like he was waiting for me to remember him I felt my skin go cold she was in a different part of the hospital nowhere near the waiting room yet she'd seen

him too he'd been watching both of us I told her about everything the things he said how he grabbed my wrist how the nurse didn't see him she didn't say anything just listened her face getting paler with every word the next day Sarah was discharged and we left the hospital As fast as we could I didn't look back didn't want to see that empty waiting room didn't want to know if he'd be there sitting on that chair waiting for me to come back it's been weeks and I haven't gone back to that hospital haven't talked

to anyone about it since but sometimes I still feel his eyes on me like he's waiting somewhere just out of sight thinking I'll remember him I had looked forward to this camping trip for months Crater Lake National Park had always been a dream destination of mine the deep blue water surrounded by Cliffs and trees was something I had wanted to see in person I had planned everything carefully the route the supplies and the campsite I made sure to pack all my gear food and enough water for my stay I arrived at the park in the

late afternoon the sun was still high in the sky and I could feel the warmth on my Skin I found a good spot near the lake away from the other campers so I could enjoy the Solitude I set up my tent organized my things and took a moment to admire the view the lake was breathtaking it looked like something out of a postcard as evening fell I lit a fire cooked a simple meal and settled into enjoy the peace the sounds of nature surrounded me the rustling leaves distant bird calls And the soft lapping of

water against the shore I felt content grateful for this moment of Escape that night I slept soundly the stars were bright above and the air was cool I woke up in the early hours needing to use the rest room I stepped out of my tent wrapped in my jacket and walked over to the nearby bathroom Facilities I made my way back to my campsite the Moonlight Illuminating the path when I returned I noticed something was off my car which had been parked neatly in its spot looked different I could see that it had been moved

I was certain I had parked it straight but now it was angled as if someone had pushed its life my heart began to race I looked around hoping to see other Campers nearby but there was only silence I approached my car to inspect it the crowd was soft and I noticed fresh tire tracks in the dirt it seemed clear that someone had indeed pushed it I looked around for any sign of another person but the area was deserted I felt a chill run down my spine I had seen other campers earlier but now the place

felt empty I checked my belongings to make sure everything was in its Place my heart sank as I noticed my backpack was not where I had left it Panic searched through me had someone taken it I had left my phone and wallet inside I searched around my campsite frantically calling out softly hoping someone would answer the night was quiet I felt isolated vulnerable the trees stood tall around me their Shadows creeping in the dim light I decided I needed to get my Things and leave I was not about to spend another night feeling this way

I reached my car and got in I locked the doors looking around feeling eyes on me even if there was no one there I turned the engine on and slowly began to drive keeping my eyes peeled for anything unusual the road was winding in dark but I needed to get to the park entrance as I drove I saw something move in my rearview Mirror a shadow I looked back but there was nothing just a darkness of the forest pressing close my Palms were sweaty on the steering wheel I glanced back at the mirror again this

time I thought I saw headlights behind me but they disappeared just as quickly I tried to convince myself that it was just my imagination But anxiety clotted My mind I drove faster the road twisting and turning every bump and Russell made me jump the quiet of the night felt heavy filled with tension I kept expecting to see someone standing by the roadside or in the trees when I finally reached the entrance of the park my heart sank in relief as I approached the gate I saw a ranger standing there talking to another driver I pulled

over and rolled down my Window excuse me I said my voice shaky I think someone has been messing with my car at the campground the ranger turned to me his expression serious what do you mean I was camping by Crater Lake and when I got up this morning my car had been moved to retire tracks like someone pushed it are you sure you parked it like that he asked but I could see the concern in his Eyes yes I insisted I know I parked it straight and my backpack is missing I don't know what to

do the ranger nodded his expression firm you did the right thing by coming here it is best if you don't go back to that area we have had reports of people camping out there after hours and it can be dangerous I swallowed hard feeling the weight of his words what should I do Then drive to the nearest town we will send someone out to check on your campsite make sure you report anything else that seems odd I nodded feeling grateful for his help as I turned to leave I caught a glimpse of the other driver

looking at me a shadow passing over their face they seemed too interested in our conversation and it made me uneasy I drove away quickly feeling the weight of what had happened hang over me I drove to the nearest town my heart still racing the road felt longer than it should I replayed the events in my mind trying to make sense of what happened it was supposed to be a peaceful trip but instead I felt exposed and afraid I finally reached a small Diner and parked my car feeling A Rush of relief to be in a

place with people around as I stepped inside the bell jingled and I looked around at the few Customers scattered in booths I approached the counter and ordered a coffee I just needed to collect myself while I waited I glanced out the window a figure passed by outside someone in a dark jacket moving quickly I felt my stomach drop as they turned and looked straight at me my breath caught in my throat it was him the man from the campground I ducked down hoping he Hadn't seen me I listened to the sounds of the diner the

clatter of dishes the low hum of conversation I dared a quick glance again but he was gone my heart raced I needed to call the ranger again but I was scared to be alone the coffee came and I took a sip my hand shaking I tried to focus on the taste but it did little to calm my nerves I could not shake the feeling of Being watched I needed to get out of there find a safe place after finishing my drink I paid the bill and left the diner my heart pounding with every step I

hurried back to my car looking over my shoulder I quickly got in and locked the doors I had to get away the thought of being alone in that campsite haunted me as I drove away I glanced in the rearview mirror one last Time half expecting to see him again the road stretched ahead and I promised myself I would never return to that place Crater Lake was beautiful but that beauty was now tainted by fear I kept driving focusing on getting to safety where I could finally breath in I was working the night shift at the

hospital doing my rounds on a wing that was still under construction it wasn't officially open Yet just bare walls empty rooms and Scattered equipment waiting to be moved into place they had me patr troller since no one else wanted to go in most people said it was too creepy but to me it was just another part of the job I've been working there a couple of months used to the odd sounds and dark hallways but this night felt different there was this strange energy in the air Like a thickness that sat on my shoulders it

was dead quiet too quiet for comfort and the usual hump from the construction lights seemed muted I started my rounds checking the empty rooms peeking into the Shadows making sure there was nothing there I wasn't expecting much maybe the usual bit of equipment left out or a tool bag left on the floor but as I got to the end of one of the long always I heard it a whisper low and drawn out coming from one of the Rooms off to the left I froze heart pounding listening to the quiet I couldn't make out the

words but it was definitely someone Whispering it wasn't just some weird Echo from my footsteps and it wasn't coming from the HVAC this was human close like someone was hiding right behind the wall just out of sight I studied myself reached for my flashlight and slowly moved Toward the sound I didn't turn on the light yet I wanted to listen first just in case I'd imagined it but as I stepped into the doorway of that empty room I saw a figure in the shadows it was a man sitting in the far Corner hunched over he

looked rough like he'd been on the streets for a long time greasy hair dirt street clothes shoes that look more like scraps than anything else he wasn't moving just sitting there Watching me I called out tried to keep my voice steady asked him what he was doing here told him he couldn't stay in the hospital I expected him to maybe get defend Ive maybe even get up and leave but he didn't he just sat there staring then he said something real soft almost like he was talking to himself I've been here he whispered his eyes

locked on me been here waiting for A reason that sent a chill down my spine I wanted to tell him to leave tell him that security was on the way but something about him kept me from saying a word he seemed familiar like I'd seen him before but I couldn't place where I went you you don't remember me do you he asked his voice scratchy and laugh I shook my head a sick feeling settling in my stomach I told him again that he had to leave but he just stayed there smiling This sad knowing smile

it didn't look threatening but something about it made me want to be anywhere else but here I saw you last week he said almost in a whisper on your other shift across the street by the loading docks he paused his eyes narrowing watching for my reaction and two nights before that in the parking garage you walk slow when you're alone Did you know that my skin crawled the thought of him watching me made me feel trapped exposed I tried to stay calm tell him he was trespassing that I'd have to call someone if he didn't

leave but he just leaned his head back against the wall his case never leaving mine people like you you never notice people like me he muttered almost to himself you walk around always looking right past never thinking he was behind The next corner he was right I hadn't noticed him before I'd never once thought about a homeless man following me around or hiding in the hospital but hearing him say it out loud like it was some game he'd been playing turned my blood cold I tried to stay firm tried to keep my voice steady as

I told him to get up to get out but he didn't he just kept talking almost like He was in a trance you know I always knew You' to end up here he said like it was some kind of Twisted Fate it's like it was meant to be I stepped back fumbling for my re radio but my hands were shaking too much to grip it he watched me ice narrowing with a strange kind of Interest as if he could feel my fear then he stood up slow and unsteady and I took another step back holding

my flashlight up as a weak Defense you don't have to be scared he whispered moving closer I'm not going to hurt you not here that didn't make me feel any better I finally managed to get my radio to work call for backup but the guy just smiled the Siri calm smile that didn't reach his eyes you think they'll get here in time he asked his voice barely louder than a whisper I turned to get out of the room but he stepped in front of the door Blocking my way I could see now just how tall

he was how his clothes hung loose on his thin frame his eyes Hollow and dark he reached out like he was going to touch my arm and and I jerked back slaming into the wall then without another word he took a step back turned and walked out into the hallway I watched as he disappeared into the Shadows his footsteps quiet almost like he'd never been there at All I stayed in that room Frozen until my backup arrived they searched the whole Wing but they didn't find him after that I quit the job I couldn't stay

there not knowing knowing he might be lurking somewhere nearby waiting for me watching I used to work the night shift as a security guard at a mall if was usually quiet just me and the soft hum of the cameras monitoring the empty stores and darken Corridors I like the solitude but sometimes it felt a bit Eerie being alone in such a big place one particular night while I was doing my usual rounds I noticed something strange on the monitor a woman was walking through the food court her movements slow and unsteady she looked lost glancing

around as if she were trying to find something or someone I couldn't make out much of her face but She had long hair and wore a dark jacket that Blended in with the Shadows I watched her for a while thinking it was unusual for anyone to be there at that hour the mall had been closed for hours I grabbed my flashlight and headed down to the food court hoping to help her find her way as I approached I called out to her excuse me are you all right she turned turned slowly and my heart dropped

when I saw her face there Was a strange look in her eyes something unsettling I I can't find my way out she said her voice almost a whisper I stepped closer shining my flashlight on her so I could see better it's all right the exits are just down this way I gestured toward the main entrance but she did not move you don't understand she said taking a step closer to me I have been looking for you I have been following you I felt A chill run down my spine following me why would you do that

because we are connected she said her expression Earnest I know you I know all about you I took a step back suddenly feeling vulnerable in her presence what do you mean you know me I asked trying to keep my voice steady her eyes brightened and she smiled I know where you live I know what you like to Eat I know your routine you were always here at night just like me I didn't respond I could feel the air thickening around us and every Instinct in my body screamed at me to get away listen I think

you should leave now I said trying to maintain my authority you shouldn't be here the mall is closed she tilted her head slightly as if considering my words you don't get it We have something special you feel it too don't you I shook my head my heart racing no I don't know you you need to go I am going to call the police as soon as I mentioned the police her demeanor changed she stepped closer her voice lowering to a hiss you don't want to do that they won't understand you and I have a Bond

they would only break it a surge of fear flooded my body I turned to leave heading back toward the security desk I could hear her foot footsteps following me quick and determined I reached for my radio my fingers trembling as I called in for backup dispatch I need help there is a woman in the mall she is not supposed to be here she is unwell copy that units are on their way The dispatcher replied and I felt a small wave of relief wash over me I turned back toward the woman who stood at a distance

her eyes locked unto me you can't leave she said softly you are mine her words chilled me I took a cautious step back scanning the area for a way to escape I could hear the sound of sirens approaching in the distance help is coming I said trying to Sound confident you need to leave now you cannot stay here she smiled smiled again but it did not reach her eyes they won't help you they don't understand just then I heard the sound of footsteps coming from the other direction the woman turned to look and I seized

the opportunity I sprinted toward the entrance hoping to reach safety before she realized what I was Doing I could hear her footsteps behind me fast and Relentless I burst through the double doors my heart pound in my chest I ran to the parking lot looking for any sign of the police finally I saw the flashing lights of a squad car and relief flooded my veins I waved my arms trying to get their attention over here I Shouted the officers jumped out of the car and rushed toward me I turned to look back at the mall

entrance my breath hitching in my throat the woman was St standing just inside her face expressionless as she watched me are you all right one of the officers asked concern etched on his face I don't know who she is but she has been following me I think she is dangerous I said my voice shaking the officers nodded their Expression serious they moved toward the entrance crawn ready to confront her I stood off to the side my heart RAC as they approached ma'am one officer called out you need to come out you were now allowed to

be here the woman did not move just stared at them and I felt a shiver of fear run down my spine come out now the officer repeated his voice firm finally she stepped into the light and I could see her face clearly Again I just wanted to be with him she said her voice eily calm the officers exchanged glances their eyes narrowing we need you to cooperate one said taking another step forward suddenly she turned and bolted back into the mall disappearing into the darkness the officers pursued her their flashlights Illuminating the path as they

shouted for her to stop I felt a mix of fear and relief they were trained for this they Would find her and I was safe now I took a deep breath trying to steady myself a few moments later the officers returned panting but without her we lost her one said looking frustrated she could be anywhere I felt a Pang of panic as they spoke what do you mean lost her she could come back not if we have a patrol set up one officer reassured me we will keep them all secure If she returns we will

be ready I nodded though a part of me remained on edge I knew she was out there somewhere they stayed with me for the remainder of my shift keeping a close watch on the entrances I was grateful for their presence but my mind continued to race what if she came back why had she been following me as my shift came to an end I felt a sense of unease linger in The air I got in my car looking around before driving away I made sure to check my mirrors often half expecting her to appear from

the Shadows I left them all behind but the feeling of being watched never truly faded I decided to report everything to my supervisor the next day I wanted to make sure no one else encountered her that no one else felt the terror I had felt that night the following days were Tense but there there were no more incidents I kept to my routines but I was always aware always cautious each time I heard a sound or saw a shadow my heart would race expecting to see her again though I did not see her again I

knew I would never forget her face or the way she spoke I learned that sometimes danger lurked in the most unexpected places I remained Vigilant always aware of the darkness that could hide just out Of sight I was passing through this small town somewhere out in the countryside just trying to make it to my next destination before midnight I'd been driving a long time and my eyes were starting to feel heavy so when I spotted the lights from an old looking PP on the side of the road I figured I'd stop in for a quick

drink maybe something to wake me up a bit the place looked like it had been there for Years crumbling brick a wooden sign that swayed with every gust of wind the windows were fogged up but there was a gloak coming from inside I could hear faint laughter and the arm of conversation so it felt safe enough just a little cozy spot tucked out of the way I pushed the door open and every sound stopped it was like someone HD mute on a TV every single person in that place turned to look at me I felt

this weird Jol go through me like I was some animal caught in headlights but then one by one they all started smiling it wasn't unfriendly more like they knew me or thought they did the bartender a tall older guy with gray hair slick back waved me over like he'd been expecting me I wanted to turn around and leave but it felt root somehow so I nodded a bit stiffly and walked over to the bar evening stranger He said grinning wide almost too wide we've been waiting for you sorry I think you might have me mixed

up with someone else I said trying to laugh it off I'm just passing through the bartender chuckled shaking his head no mistake you're right on time it was unsettling but I figured he was just being friendly so I ordered a drink as I waited I noticed a few people were still looking at me from their Tables they all wore these little Smiles watching me with this strange intensity I looked down in my glass and took a sip trying to ignore them but their eyes never left me I felt trapped under all that attention when I

nearly finished my drink I nodded to the bartender and tried to stand but before I could a hand landed on my shoulder I glanced up and there was this woman older maybe in her 50s with this Dark red lipstick that was just a little smudged don't be in such a hurry tiar she said her voice soft but firm stay a while yeah another voice chimed in I looked over and saw a man a few stools down smiling at me with these eyes that looked far too excited you just got here no need to leave so

soon something about the way he said it made my skin Crawl I Shrugged her hands off forcing a smile I really should get going I have a long drive ahead the bartender said another Dr drink in front of me though I hadn't ordered it on the house he said giving me that same grin just stay a bit longer no harm in that is there I looked around the room every person was staring at me now I tried to stand again but the older woman leaned over and whispered we don't get visitors here Often especially not

ones like you the way she said that last part made my stomach twist ones like me I repeated my voice barely above a whisper she nodded slowly ones who fit I didn't know what she meant and I didn't want to know I pulled out a few bills and set them on the bar keeping my movements slow and calm thanks for the drink but I Really have to go the bartender's smile faded just a little his eyes narrowed like he was calculating something leaving already that's a shame I backed toward the door every Instinct in me

screaming that I needed to get out of there just as my hand reached the handle the door swung shut locking itself my pulse spiked what what's going on just relax The bartender said his voice smooth and calm no need to get worked up safe here the people around the tables began to stand up slowly almost in unison they didn't say a word just watched me like they were waiting for something I said I have to go I managed trying to keep my voice steady a man near the door shook his head smiling that same awful

smile you can't leave yet we've been waiting a long time for you that was When it hit me they weren't joking they were serious every one of them seemed to think I was meant to be here like I'd been part of some plan they've been hatching the air felt thick heavy like it was pressing down on me trapping me in that room look I don't know what this is but I'm leaving I said lot of this time my voice echoed in the quiet the bartender Sighed almost like he was disappointed it's not safe out there

for someone like you especially not tonight the words were chilling the way he said them I felt a bead of sweat run down my neck I'll take my chances I tried to pull the door open again but it wouldn't budge then I heard the lock click I turned and saw the bartender holding his set of keys twirling them around his finger with that smunk look On his face you're not going anywhere he said the people were getting closer now moving in around me blocking every possible way out my mind raised searching for some excuse some

way to get them to let me go please I just stopped in for a drink I didn't mean to intrude oh you're not intruding the older woman said her voice almost sweet this is exactly where you're Supposed to be I took a step back feeling my our beat hammer in my ears why are you doing this like we said the bartender replied his smile never wavering we've been waiting I could feel the walls closing in every face watching me with that unblinking stare as if they'd already made up their minds about something my pulse was

racing my breathing shallow I didn't care if they thought I Was crazy or rude anymore I had to get out of there I turned pushing through the the small crowd shoving anyone in my way I didn't care about the looks the gasps The disapproving Whispers I just needed to get to that door I could hear them behind me their footsteps closing in but I pushed harder slamming my shoulder into the door with all the strength I had somehow it gave way just enough for me to slip Out I stumbled into the night nearly tripping over

my own feet as I sprinted to my car I didn't look back I didn't want to see if they were following I fumbled with the keys hand shaking so badly it took me three tries to unlock the door I threw myself inside and locked it jamming the key into the ignition as the engine wore to life I finally looked up at the pub they were All standing there in the doorway watching me those same blank expectant Smiles on every face the bartender raised his hand giving me this slow almost friendly wave like he was saying

goodbye to an old friend I hit the gas and tore out of that parking lot my art still pounding even as I got back on the highway I didn't look back I kept driving even when the headlights of the pub faded in the Distance every so often though I thought I could see that place out of the corner of my eye still standing there waiting I don't know what they wanted from me and I don't think I ever will but I know one thing I'll never stop at another small town bar again I had been

driving for hours and needed to stop for the night the motel wasn't anything special but it was right off the highway and I couldn't keep my eyes open much longer terrain had started About an hour before I pulled in and by the time I parked it was pouring so hard I had to run to the office with my jacket over my head the clerk was an older man who barely looked up when I walked in he handed me the key after I paid muttered something about check out being at 11: and went back to watching

the tiny TV on the counter I didn't care I just wanted to sleep my room was around the back of the building away From the road the parking lot was empty except for my car and the lights along the building barely worked flickering in the downpour my room smelled like damp carpet and cheap cleaning spray but the bed looked clean enough so I dropped my bag and sat down to take off my boots terrain was loud against the window almost drowning out the faint hum of the heater I turned on I didn't bother with the

TV I just wanted to close my eyes and forget how much further I had to drive in the morning I was about to lie down when I heard the knock it was soft at first so quiet I thought I imagined it but then it came again a lot of this time three slow deliberate knocks on the window the curtains were drawn and I couldn't see outside my first thought was maybe the clerk had come to tell me something but Why would he knock on the window instead of the door I stood there Frozen for a

moment trying to decide if I should look the knocking came again steady and unhurried like whoever was out there wasn't in a rush to leave I finally moved toward the window careful not to get too close I pulled the curtain back just enough to peek out and hats when I saw him there was a man standing just Outside the window drenched from the rain he was older maybe in his 40s with a scruffy beard and a hood pulled up over his head he was staring straight at the window but it didn't seem like he could

see me through the Gap and the curtains he knocked again harder this time and then leaning close his face almost against the glass hey he called out his voice was muffled I could hear him over the rain you and there my car Broke down can you help me something about the way he said it made my stomach twist he wasn't shouting or panicked just calm and steady like he knew I was listening I didn't answer I let the curtain fall back into place and stepped away from the window my heart pounding the knocking came again

louder now almost impatient come on he said I just need to use your phone I won't take long I glanced at the door making sure it was Locked I didn't have a chain or deadbolt just a basic knob lock and suddenly it didn't feel like enough the knocking stopped and for a moment all I could hear was the rain I thought maybe he'd left but then I heard him again closer this time he was at the door door hey he called out his voice lower now I know you're in there I saw your car I

backed up toward the bathroom my hand Shaking there was no people on the door so I couldn't see him but I could hear the handle jiggle slightly like he was testing it you don't have to open the door he said just slide the phone out and I'll be on my way I didn't move I didn't say anything after a few seconds the handle stopped moving and the rain filled the silence again I stayed where I was barely breathing waiting to see if he'd leave then I heard footsteps slow and Deliberate moving along the side of

the building he was circling back to the window I crept toward the window and peeed out again just enough to see him standing there looking at the curtains his hood had fallen back and his hair was plastered to his head from the rain he looked calm like he had all the time in the world he knocked on the class in leaning close I'm not going anywhere he said I crapped my phone and dial of 911 my Finger shaking so badly I could barely hit the buttons the operator answered and I whispered into the phone telling

her where I was and what was happening she told me to stay on the line and stay here hidden that she was sending someone the man outside must have seen the light from my phone because he stepped back suddenly his face twisting into something harder angrier what are you doing in there he Shouted slamming his hand against the glass I didn't answer the operator kept talking telling me to stay calm but her voice fell far away all I could hear was in pounding on the window harder and harder like he was trying to break it

then he stopped the silence was almost worse than the noise I didn't move didn't dare look out again after what felt like forever I Heard the footsteps again moving away from the window I thought maybe he'd finally given up but then I heard something else a car door slamming I peaked out again just in time to see headlights cutting through the rain as a car pulled out of the lot and disappeared down the highway the the police arrived a few minutes later I told them everything but there wasn't much they could do the clerk Hadn't

seen anyone and there were no cameras in the lot they said it was probably some Drifter someone looking for a quick score or trying to scare me but I couldn't shake the feeling that he'd been waiting for someone like me alone and out of options I didn't sleep that night I sat in the corner of the room with the lights on waiting for morning when the Sun finally came up I packed my things and left promising myself I'd Never stop at a place like that again it started on a cold rainy evening the kind where

you want to wrap yourself in a blanket and forget the outside world exists my wife and I had just settled in for the night the fire was going dinner dishes were cleaned and we were watching a movie when we heard the knock at the door it was strange because we don't usually get visitors especially not at night our house is set a little ways off the main road so you don't just stumble Onto unless you're looking for it I got up a bit hesitant and looked through the peep Hall a man was standing on the

porch drenched from the rain he didn't have an umbrella or anything just a jacket soaked through in a baseball cap pulled low over his face he kept glancing around shifting his weight from one foot to the other something about it didn't sit right with me but I couldn't just leave him standing there I opened the door a crack leaving the chain on And asked can I help you the man looked up his face pale and weathered he seemed older maybe in his late 40s or 50s with deep lines around his eyes and mouth his expression

wasn't angry but it wasn't friendly either just flat like he was trying hard not to show anything evening he said his voice slow and love sorry to bother you but I used to live here I sua Al a while back but I realized I left something Behind it's really important I need to come in and look for it that caught me off guard we bought the house a year ago and the sale had been through a realter we' never met the previous owner I glanced back at my wife who was now standing behind me her

arms crossed tightly over her chest she shook her head slightly a silent warning I felt the same Unease I'm sorry I said keeping my voice firm we haven't seen anything like that the house was empty when we moved in if it's something you left it's probably gone by now he didn't move just stared at me for a moment his eyes didn't seem to Blink then he leaned in slightly not enough to be threatening but enough to make me uncomfortable you don't understand he said it's not something I can just replace I need to Check it

won't take long I tighten my on the door what is it you're looking for the question seemed to throw him off he blinked looked away for a moment then back at me it's personal he said finally you wouldn't know if you'd seen it I need to see for myself I shook my head I'm sorry but I can't let you in this is our home now if you want to give me more information I can check for you but you can't just come Inside his face twitched slightly like he was trying to keep his composure I

don't mean to cause trouble he said his voice quieter now but I have to look it's mine I can't just leave it behind something in his tone made the hair on the back of my neck stand up it wasn't what he said it was how he said it there was no desperation no pleading it was flat like he was stating a fact he wasn't asking for Permission he was just waiting for me to move I started to close the door but his hand shot out and pressed against the frame not hard not enough to force

it open but enough to stop me his expression changed then it was subtle but I saw it the flatness was gone replaced by something colder I don't think you're listening he said this is important more important than you realize my wife stepped forward then her Voice sharp and cutting through the tension if you don't leave we're calling the police that made him PA pause his eyes flicked her then back to me he seemed to weigh his options for a moment then he stepped back raising his hand slightly in a gesture of surrender all right he

said I'm sorry to bother you I just I needed to try he turned and walked off the porch Disappearing into the rain I closed the door and locked it double-checking the dead bolt my wife and I stood there for a moment listening to the rain and the wind trying to process what had just happened he's gone right she asked her voice trembling slightly I nodded but I wasn't sure something about the way he left didn't feel right I went to the window pulling the curtain aside just enough to Peek out the driveway was empty there

was no car how had he he got in here the rest of the night I couldn't shake the feeling of unease every little noise made me jump my wife tried to calm me down saying he was probably just some guy trying to scam us or mess with us but I couldn't stop thinking about his face the way he looked at me like he wasn't really looking at me but through me around midnight we finally went to bed Though I didn't sleep much every time I closed my eyes eyes I heard his voice again that cold

even tone that didn't match his words it was around 2: a.m. when I heard the noise a faint Creek like with settling underweight I sat up in bed straining to listen it came again a lot of this time it was coming from downstairs I woke my wife Whispering that I'd heard something she crapped her phone ready to call the police while I Crapped the heavy flashlight I kept by the bed slowly I crept down the stairs my heart pounding so hard I thought it might give me away when I reached the bottom I froze the

front door was open swinging slightly in the wind rain pulled on the floor just inside I was sure I'd locked it I knew I had I stepped closer shining the flashlight around the room that's when I saw it a pair of Muddy Footprints Leading from the door through the living room and toward the kitchen my tightened on the flashlight as I followed them every nerve in my body screaming at me to run but I couldn't leave my wife upstairs when I reached the kitchen the footprint stopped the back door was open too swaying in the

storm I Shone the flashlight outside but there was no one there just the rain and The wind we didn't sleep the rest of the night the police came but there wasn't much they could do there was no sign of forced entry and nothing was missing they suggested it might have been a prank but I knew better he'd come back and whatever he was looking for he wasn't done we changed the locks the next day here's what happened and I still can't believe I got out of it I've never Ridden anything like this before so I'm

sorry if it doesn't make sense I just need to put it somewhere it was January and I decided to take a solo trip up to the ski lodge I'd found online it wasn't one of those big fancy Resorts just a quiet spot tucked into the mountains I thought it would be a good way to clear my head after the holidays work had been stressful and I Wanted time to myself the place seemed perfect small not crowded just a handful of cins spread out around the lodge it felt remote but not too far from the nearest

town the first day was great I spent the morning on the slopes and the afternoon sitting by the fireplace in the lodge it was peaceful quiet I even made small talk with the woman who ran the front desk an older Lady named Carol she seemed nice enough though she didn't talk much just handed me my te and told me to let her know if I needed anything the trouble started the second day I was up early ready to hit the slopes again it had snowed overnight and everything looked fresh and untouched I cracked my gear

from a rack outside my cabin and headed to the lift when I got there though something felt off my bindings didn't look right at First I thought maybe the snow had just settled weird on them overnight but when I bent down to check I realized one of the screws was loose not just loose gone I'm not an expert but I know enough to realize how dangerous that could have been if I'd gone down the slope and my binding had come off I could have broken my leg or worse I was annoyed but I figured it

was just wear and Tear I took it back to the lodge and borrowed a screwdriver from Carol I asked her if anyone had messed with the gear rat but she just Shrugged and said no one ever really touched other people's stuff by the time I got everything fixed half the morning was gone I hit the slopes anyway trying to shake off the weird feeling in my gut I told myself I was overreacting that it was just bad luck that evening when I got back to my cabin I found a note Slipped under the door it

was on plain white paper folded in half the handwriting was messy almost like whoever wrote it was in a hurry it said don't go back out there I stood there holding it for what felt like forever just staring at the words my first thought was that it had to be some kind of joke maybe one of the other guests was messing with me but the thing was I hadn't really talked to anyone aside From Terell I hadn't seen much of anyone around I thought about going to her showing her the not note but something held

me back it felt silly like I'd be overreacting instead I locked the door double checked all the windows and tried to convince myself it was nothing the next day I almost didn't go SCH I thought about staying in the cabin maybe reading or taking a walk around the lodge but then I got mad why should I Let some stupid note ruin my trip I'd spent good money to be there and I wasn't about to waste it so I went back out at first everything seemed fine the slopes were quiet and the snow was perfect but

after a couple of runs I started to feel like I was being watched it's hard to explain but you know the feeling when the air is on the back of your neck stand up it was like that this constant prickling sensation Like someone's eyes were on me I kept looking over my shoulder but there was no one there the trees were thick on either side of the trail and every so often I thought I saw movement a shadow slipping between the trunks just out of the corner of my eye I told myself it was just

the wind or maybe a deer but I couldn't shake the feeling then near the bottom of the run I wiped out I wasn't going fast so I wasn't hurt but when I got up I I Noticed something weird my ski had come loose again when I looked closer I realized the same binding I'd fixed the day before was loose again the screw was still there but it had been turned almost all the way out someone had tampered with it I was done after that I took my gear back to the lodge and went straight to

Carol I showed her the ski told her about the note she just looked at me her face Plank and said I don't know what to Tell you maybe you should take it easy for a day or two that night I couldn't sleep every Creek of the cabin made me jump around midnight I heard footsteps outside slow deliberate crunching in the snow I froze my heart pounding so hard I thought whoever was out there would hear it the footsteps stopped right outside my door I crab the only thing I could think of a fire poker I'd

seen leaning against a Fireplace I held my breath waiting for something to happen but after a few minutes the footsteps started again fading away into the night in the morning I found another note this one was taped to the inside of the window facing in it said leave now that was it for me I packed my stuff and went to the front desk to check out terol wasn't there just a handwritten note saying she'd be back Later I didn't care I left the key on the counter and drove straight to the nearest town on the

way down the mountain I noticed something in the rearview mirror a black truck following me at first I thought it was just a coincidence the road was narrow and there weren't many ways to get down but the truck stayed behind me no matter how fast or slow I went when I got to town I pulled into the parking lot of a gas Station the truck kept going but as it passed I saw the driver he was wearing a ski mask I stayed in town that night at a cheap motel the next morning I called the

lodge and tried to talk to Carol but no one answered I thought about calling the police but what could I tell them that's someone left me creepy notes and messed with my Skis I still don't know who it was or what they wanted all I know is that I'm never going back to that Lodge or anywhere near those mountains I moved into the house last November it wasn't anything fancy just a small two-bedroom on a quiet street the kind of place I've been dreaming of for years especially after living in a noisy apartment complex for

so long it was peaceful and for the first couple of weeks I felt like I'd finally caught a Break at first it was small things that I noticed a letter here a package there I come home from work check the mailbox and find it empty I thought maybe it was the post office messing up so I didn't think much of it then my sister called to ask if i' gotten the sweater she sent me for my birthday I hadn't that's when I started to feel like something wasn't right I filed a complaint with the post

office but they said there wasn't much they could do they recommended I get a locking mailbox so I ordered one online but while I was waiting for it to arrive more things started to go missing not just male little things inside the house a scarf I'd left on the coat rack a coffee mug from the sink a photo frame from the living room it was weird but I thought maybe I'd misplaced them moving into a a new place can throw you off Right then one night I came home late from work and found the back

door unlocked I was sure I'd locked it that morning but I started second guessing myself I checked every room every closet but nothing seemed out of place still I couldn't shake the feeling that someone had been there I bought a small camera the next day one of those cheap ones you can stick to the wall and check from your phone I said up in the hallway facing the front door and went To bed that night feeling a little more at ease if someone was messing with me I catch them the first few nights nothing happened

I checked the footage every morning and all I'd see was the empty hallway it started to feel like maybe I was being paranoid but then on the fifth night I saw him it was about 3:00 a.m. the camera caught a man stepping into the hallway from the direction of my Bedroom he was tall wearing a dark hoodie with the hood pulled up his face was invisible but he moved slowly like he was taking his time he walked straight to the kitchen opened a couple of drawers and took something I couldn't tell what then he turned

and walked back toward the bedroom toward me I stared at the footage for what felt like hours trying to process what I was seeing I did didn't remember hearing Anything that night I didn't wake up how long had he been doing this how many times had he been inside my house while I was asleep I called the police right away they came out and checked the house but by the time they got there he was long gone they looked at the camera footage and said they'd send someone to patrol the area but there wasn't much

else they could do unless he came back I couldn't sleep that night I kept every light in the house on and sat in the living room with a kitchen knife in my hand I jumped at every sound the creek of the floorboards the wind against the windows morning couldn't come fast enough the next day I called out of work and bought new locks for all the doors I also picked up a second camera and set it up in the kitchen I thought if I could at least make it harder for him to get in he

Might give up but he didn't the next time was two nights later I woke up around 2: a.m. to the sound of footsteps they weren't loud just soft measured steps like someone trying not to be heard my heart was pounding as I reached for my phone and pulled up the camera feet he was in the kitchen I could see him on the screen standing at the counter with his back to the camera he was holding something in His hands studying it like he was trying to decide decide whether to take it then he turned and

for the first time I got a glimpse of his face he was wearing his ski mask but his eyes were visible cold and empty like he wasn't afraid of anything I didn't think I just grabbed my phone and called the police I whispered into the receiver trying to stay quiet so he wouldn't hear me but my voice was shaking so bad I wasn't sure if they understood what I Was saying they told me to stay on the line and lock myself in a room if I could I crept to the bathroom and locked the door

trying not to make a sound my phone was still in my hand the dispatcher's voice in my ear telling me to stay calm that officers were on their way I could hear the man moving around in the house opening and closing drawers walking from room to room at one point he stopped right outside the bathroom door I held my breath the door knob Rattled just once and then there was silence I thought maybe he'd left but I didn't dare move I stayed there crouched on the floor until I heard the sound of sirens in the

distance the police arrived just in time they caught him in the backyard trying to climb over the fence he had a bag with him full of things he'd taken from my house my keys my wallet even a pair of shoes I had Notice were missing they arrested him on the spot it turned out he'd been breaking into houses all over the neighborhood for weeks he'd been watching me waiting until I was asleep to let himself enter the back door the idea that someone had been there close to me walking through my home while I was

defenseless still makes my skin crawl I moved out of the house a month later I couldn't stay there not after knowing what had Happened even now in a new place with locks and security cameras everywhere I still wake up in the middle of the night heart racing sure I'll hear Footsteps in the hall again it was a freezing morning when I decided to head out to the Old Quarry I had been into photography for a while mostly Landscapes and abandoned places there's something about those forgotten spots with their broken structures and overgrown paths that Always

drew me in I had heard about this query from a guy at a local camera shop he mentioned it in passing saying it was a cool place but a bit out of the way that was what I liked to call quiet places where I could take my time without anyone bothering me I parked my car at the end of a dirt road just outside the quarry's entrance it wasn't an official spot just a clearing where I figured no one would tear if I left my car for a couple of Hours the snow from the previous

night crunched under my boots as I grabbed my backpack and camera gear the air felt heavy like the kind of Stillness you get just before a storm I didn't think much of it the quiet was nice peaceful the entrance to the Quarry wasn't marked but you could tell where it was from the way the tree s out the path LED downhill and soon the landscape Opened up the Quarry was enormous Jagged walls of stone towered over a frozen pond in the center and Scattered piles of old equipment were half buried in the snow rusted tracks

and broken down Machinery made for great photos I felt lucky to have found the place untouched or so it seemed I spent about an hour wandering around snapping pictures the light was in great gray skies and all but I figured I could edit The photos later I moved closer to one of the old buildings maybe an office or a storage shed the door was slightly a jar and the snow around it was fresh no Footprints except mine inside there wasn't much left some broken furniture a few scattered tools and graffiti covering the walls it didn't

look like anyone had been there in years as I stepped out of the shed I noticed something I hadn't Seen before a truck parked on the far side of the quarry near the tree line it was an old beat up pickup the kind you see around Farms or construction sites it hadn't been there when I arrived my first thought was that maybe it belonged to someone hunting in the woods nearby but the the longer I looked at it the more uneasy I felt the truck's windows were dark and there was no movement no sign of

anyone getting Out I decided to keep to myself and stick to the other side of the Quarry whoever it was they had as much right to be there as I did and I didn't want to make it weird I moved further along the frozen pond taking a few more shots of the rock walls and Machinery but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being watched I glanced back toward the truck a few times but it stayed still like some kind of animal lying in weight then I heard Voices they were faint at first carried

by the wind but they were getting closer two men came into view walking toward me from the direction of the truck they were bundled up in heavy coats and boots and one of them was holding something in his hand it looked like a crowbar my chest tightened they weren't smiling and their body language was stiff deliberate hey one of them called Out his voice was sharp like he was already mad about something what are you doing here I tried to keep calm as they approached just taking pictures I said holding up my camera to show

them I didn't think anyone would mind this is private property the second man said his tone was low and cold he was the bigger of the two with a thick beard and hard eyes that made it clear he wasn't just bluffing you're Trespassing I didn't see any signs I said trying to keep my voice steady if I had known you know now the first man cut in stepping closer his on the Crowbar tightened and I could see his jaw clenching who sent you that question caught me off guard no one sent me I said quickly

I just heard about this place from a friend I thought it' be a good spot for Photos that's all the two men exchanged a look and something about it made my stomach churn it wasn't just irritation or frustration it was suspicion paranoia like they thought I knew something I wasn't supposed to you expect us to believe that the bigger man said he took another step toward me his boots crunching in the snow out here in the middle of nowhere You just happened to show up with a camera that's exactly what happened I said trying to

keep my voice calm but firm look I'll leave right now if that's what you want I didn't mean to cause any trouble you've already caused trouble the first man said his eyes started to my backpack what else you got in there just Tam here I said backing up a step that's it show us the bigger man said it wasn't a Request I hesitated which was a mistake the smaller man raised the Crowbar slightly like he was ready to swing it if I didn't cooperate my hands were shaking as I unzipped my backpack and held it

open for them to see they rummaged through it pulling out my lenses and batteries tossing them carelessly into the snow nothing here the bigger man muttered but he didn't sound convinced check his Pockets I'm not carrying anything I said my voice cracking slightly I swear just let me go and I'll never come back here the smaller man grabbed the front of my jacket yanking me closer his his breath smelled like tobacco and something sour if you're lying you're going to regret it I'm not lying I blurted out I don't even know what this place Is

I thought it was abandoned the bigger man side looking around the Quarry like he was making a decision then he turned to the other guy we can't just let him walk out of here my heart sank I didn't see anything I said desperation creeping into my voice I'll delete the photos Okay I didn't mean to shut up the smaller man snapped pushing me back you think we're stupid you think we don't know why You're here I don't know what you're talking about I yelled Panic taking over I don't know anything the bigger man raised a

hand silencing me here's what's going to happen he said his voice cold and deliberate you're going to come with us we'll figure out what to do with you I took a step back but they moved in closer cutting off any chance of Escape my mind was racing trying to Think of a way out the truck was too far and even if I made it I'd never get it started before they caught up my car was even further I was was trapped and then I saw it the old shed I had been in earlier the door

was still slightly open if I could just get inside maybe I could lock them out or at least by myself some time I didn't think I just Ran hey one of them shouted but I didn't look back my boots slipped on the icy CR as I sprinted toward the shed my lungs burning from the cold air I threw myself inside and slammed the door shut sliding the rusty bolt into place just as they reached it they pounded on the door yelling for me to come out but the bolt held for now I stumbled back looking

around the dim cluttered space for anything I could use to defend Myself my ice landed on a rusty shovel propped against the wall I crapped it my hands trembling and waited the pounding on the door stopped and the silence that followed was somehow worse we'll smoke you out if we have to one of them yelled you're not getting out of here alive I didn't respond my breath came in Shallow gasps as I GED the shovel tighter I had no idea how I was going to Get out of this but I knew one thing I wasn't

going to let them trke me away after what felt like an eternity I heard their footsteps retreating I didn't trust it I stayed put listening for any sign that they were still nearby the minute stretched on and eventually the only sound was the wind howling outside when I finally peaked out of the shed the truck was gone but I didn't Stick around to question it I ran straight to my car not stopping until I was behind the wheel with the doors locked my hands were shaking so badly I could barely get the key into the

ignition the engine wore to life and I tore out of there without looking back I don't know what those men were hiding in that quarry and I don't want to know all I know is that I'll never go back there again I was working on a photography project places of worship around the city mostly older buildings with that heavy almost eery history to them I like the silence The Emptiness there's a strange calm to those places at night when they're supposed to be empty I'd managed to get permission to photograph this old church that had

been closed down for years it was in rough shape dust thick on everything the smell Of damp settling in every corner perfect for what I wanted I got there around midnight set up my tripod near The Altar and started shooting the only sounds were the faint clicks of my camera and the occasional Creek of wood settling the place was dark except for the dim light filtering in from a Street Lamp outside and the small flashlight I had with me it was C two my breath came out invisible Puffs after about an hour of shooting I

started noticing faint noises it wasn't much at first just a light tap here a shuffle there like an animal scurrying around in the dark Corners I told myself it was probably a rat or some bird trapped inside the building had a few broken windows so it wasn't unlikely I kept working but the sound didn't stop it got Louder footsteps heavy deliberate coming from somewhere toward the back of the church I froze hoping maybe it was just a building shifting or something but the steps grew louder closer whoever it was they weren't in a hurry it

sounded like slow tearful pacing like they were waiting for something I was alone I'd locked the door when I came in so I didn't understand how anyone else could be there I took a deep breath Tightened my grip on the flashlight and turned around my flashlight beam swung through the darkness but there was nothing there just empty pews and shadows stretching all the way to the back wall I tried to calm myself down but the footsteps picked up again closer this time and more insistent they stopped a few feet behind me and that's when I

heard someone clear their throat my stomach Dropped I forced myself to turn around expecting I don't know what but definitely not what I saw a man stood there dressed in old faded clothes that looked like they belonged in another decade his face was blank just staring at me the thing that struck me the most was how still he was he didn't move didn't even blink he was just standing there watching can I help you I managed to ask my voice A lot shakier than I would have liked I'm the caretaker here he said in this

flat almost rehearsed tone you're here late you shouldn't be there was something strange in his voice like he was forcing himself to sound normal but didn't quite know how his face was expressionless his eyes fixed on me with this intense Focus that made my skin crawl I'm a photographer I said trying to sound calm I got permission to shoot Here the man didn't react he just kept staring at me his eyes unblinking they didn't tell me about that he said his voice low you shouldn't be here not at this hour I tried to reason with

him saying I had the paperwork and everything but he didn't seem to hear me instead he took a SL slow step forward it wasn't much just a tiny shift but it was enough to make my art Race who who gave you permission he asked his voice so quiet I barely heard it I was starting to feel uneasy something about this man wasn't right he was too calm too still I told him the name of the person who'd arranged the access hoping it would satisfy him but he didn't even blink they didn't tell me he repeated

his voice a bit louder now like he was talking more to himself than to me the Whole situation felt off I glanced to Mye wondering if I should just pack up and go I didn't want to make this guy mad but there was something unsettling about him something that made me want to get out of there as fast as possible the man stepped closer again his face still blank eyes never leaving me it's not safe here he murmured almost like a warning not for you I swallowed trying to keep my voice Steady look I don't

want any trouble I'll just finish up and leave okay he shook his head slowly that strange empty expression never changing you won't leave he said almost to himself not yet something in his tone chilled me to the bones he sounded so sure like he knew something I didn't something he wasn't telling me I decided I couldn't stay any Longer I started to pack up my camera keeping one eye on him the whole time he just stood there watching his face a plank mask when I was done I cracked my bag and turned to head toward

the door but he moved to block my path quick and Silent like he'd been waiting for that moment his face was close to mine now close enough that I could see the Dark Shadows under his eyes the slight twitch at the corner of his mouth you're not leaving he said and this time there was A hint of something in his voice almost excitement I took a step back feeling the Panic start to build I didn't know what this guy wanted but every Instinct I had was screaming at me to get away from him listen man

I said trying to keep my voice calm I'll just head out no need for this he smiled then this slow chilling smile that didn't reach his eyes you're here he said like it explained everything like that was all he needed to keep me there I tried to Sid step him but he moved with me blocking my way again my pulse was racing now my hands starting to sweat I could feel that sense of dread growing the realization that I might not get out of there as easily as I thought why won't you let me leave

I asked my voice barely above a whisper his eyes narrowed and for the first time his expression changed there was something dark in his gaze something that made my stomach Twist it's not your time he murmured almost as if he was talking to himself then he turned walked a few steps back into the darkness and disappeared I didn't wait to see if he'd come back the second he was out of sight I bolted for the door practically running down the aisle and out into the cold night air I didn't stop until I reached my car

my hand shaking so bad I could barely get the keys into the Ignition when I finally looked back at the church the man was standing in the doorway just watching me his expression was calm almost amused like he expected me to run he didn't move move didn't try to follow me but I could feel his eyes on me even as I drove away I don't know what he wanted or why he was there all I know is that I won't be going back to that church again whatever was wrong with him whatever his reason for

teing me there it was Something I don't ever want to understand I was heading home late that night I had taken the train like always and walked the same rout from the station back to my apartment it was usually a quick 10-minute walk along mostly empty streets by then the neighborhood was quiet barely any people around and the only sound was the distant hum of cars on the main Road about halfway home I noticed someone standing under a Street Lamp of block up a guy tall wearing a jacket that hung loose around his frame I

didn't think much of it there were people out sometimes just wandering or waiting for a bus but when I got closer he turned to face me and I noticed he had a camera up aimed right in my direction he took a picture The Flash blinked and then Disappeared it was strange enough to make me pause and I stared back at him but he didn't say anything just lowered the camera a bit then took another shot I felt exposed like he was watching me more closely than anyone ever had I kept walking trying not to show

that I was uncomfortable I thought maybe he was some kind of amateur photographer just taking random photos for practice or something I didn't really want to be Rude so I kept moving ignoring him as I went further I kept glancing back each time I expected him to be gone but he wasn't he was still there still aiming the camera at me taking pictures as I walked I picked up my Pace but he just took another picture and then another the sound of the camera shutter carried through the night soft but too close it made my

skin crawl the next night it happened again I Took the same route hoping I wouldn't see him but halfway home there he was standing a little closer than he'd been the night before he aimed his camera and took a picture before I'd even noticed him the flash was so bright it stunned me for a second when I blinked I could see him clearly just staring at me lowering the camera slowly his eyes cold and hard like he was studying me this time I didn't stop I just kept going my heart pounding A little faster with

each step I tried to ignore the feeling in my gut that he was getting closer each time I walked by when I glanced back that night he was still there watching me like he knew I'd look back by the third night I was dreading that walk I thought about calling someone but who would I call it felt strange to think of calling the police over some guy taking pictures on a public street but I couldn't shape the feeling that Something was off something that made my skin crawl just thinking about it that night he was

even closer this time he wasn't standing under a streetlight but just outside its Reach In the Shadows so all I could see was his outline as I passed him I heard the click of his camera again I didn't want to turn around but I felt like he was watching my every move I walked faster trying to keep calm but I could feel the weight of his stare like he was following me with his eyes then just when I thought I was out of his sight I heard footsteps behind me slow deliberate I told myself it

was just someone else walking home but when I looked back it was him he was closer than ever following me the camera was in his hand pointed directly at me my heart was pounding and I could feel the fear rising in my Throat I forced myself to keep walking trying to act like I hadn't noticed but I was practically running by the time I reached my building when I got inside I locked the door heart racing hand shaking I checked through the people but there was no sign of him I told myself it was fine

that he probably moved on that he couldn't get into the building but I barely slept at night kept awake by the sound of that shutter clicking in my head over and over the next morning I Decided to take it different R home I didn't want to see him again didn't want to know what he would do next but when I stepped off the train that night I saw him waiting standing by the exit with his camera as if he knew I'd be there as if he'd been waiting Al a just to see me my heart

dropped and I almost turned back but something in he said to just keep going act like I didn't see him but he didn't let me ignore him this time he stepped out in front of me blocking my Path I tried to go around him but he moved to block me again his face Twisted into a strange cold smirk he lifted his camera pointed it right at me and took another picture The Flash blinding me I couldn't help it I spoke up my voice trembling what do you want want I asked trying to sound braver than

I felt he didn't answer right away he just lowered the camera looked me up and down and smirked again like he Was enjoying this then he leaned in his voice low and calm I'm just capturing the moment you'll want to remember this the way he said it like he knew something I didn't made my blood run cold I didn't know what to do I just wanted to get away from him so I stepped back turned and walked as fast as I could I didn't dare look back didn't want to see if he was following me

I was almost home I heard it the Sound of his footsteps behind me quickening to match my Pace I could hear his breathing close and steady like he was right behind me I broke into a run my heart racing my mind screaming at me to get inside to get away from him I ran up to my building fumbled with my keys and slipped inside slamming the door shut behind me I looked through the peephole and there he was standing just outside his camera aim right at my door he took another picture Then lowered the camera

and stared at the door like he could see me through it he stayed there for what felt like forever just standing and watching like he was waiting for me to come back out finally he turned and walked away but I didn't feel any relief I knew he beat back knew that he wasn't done I spent the next few days constantly looking over my shoulder barely sleeping waiting for him to show Up again then one night as I was leaving for work I saw something on the floor just outside my door it was an envelope and

inside were photos pictures of me taken from a distance taken while I was walking while I was at my door even one through my window my hand shook as I looked through them my stomach twisting with fear I don't know who he was don't know what he wanted but I couldn't stay there after that I moved the next week got a New job a new apartment far from that place but I still can't shake the feeling that he's out there somewhere waiting camera in hand just waiting for me to slip up and let him back

into my life I was working late one night in the Campus Library I had a paper to the next morning and I was in no shape to finish it in my dorm room where my roommate would have the TV on or be playing video Games the library was one of the only places I could really focus and usually by midnight it was practically empty I had my laptop out headphones on head buried in my notes trying to push through the last few pages of my essay it was cold and the place was quiet with only

the hum of the fluorescent lights above and the occasional Creek from the old building I remember that I barely even noticed the guy at First I glanced up once or twice and he was just sitting there a few tables away maybe he was working on his own paper or whatever but I didn't think much of it about an hour went by I got up to stretch my legs and grab a coffee from the fending machine around the corner when I came back I noticed there was something on my table just a little crumpled up piece

of paper like trash someone had left behind I thought it was weird but I Brushed It Off I figured maybe it had been stuck to my backpack or something so I ignored it and got back to work after a few more minutes I started to feel this weird feeling like I was being watched I tried to Shake it Off telling myself it was just because the library was so empty and quiet but then I looked up and I noticed that guy again sitting there but this time he was looking right at me not just glancing

up occasionally But actually staring I looked away quickly hoping he'd take the hint I put my head down focused on my laptop screen and tried to push the uncomfortable feeling out of my mind but a few minutes later I saw him move out of the corner of my eye he stood up and I thought maybe he was sleeping I felt relieved but instead he walked over to my table dropped something and walked back to his seat without saying a word It was enough crumpled piece of paper this time I picked it up I was annoyed

maybe even a little freaked out and I wanted to see what this guy's deal was I smoothed it out expecting it to be some kind of dumb joke or maybe even trash but the words written on it were strange you have the 8 a.m. class in Galloway Hall I froze for a second reading it over again I definitely didn't know this guy gu and I hadn't told anyone my Schedule I looked back over to his table and he was just sitting there staring at me with this blank expression not a smile not even a frown

just blank like he was studying me it gave me the creeps I didn't want him to see that he was getting to me so I just crumpled the note up and threw it in my bag trying to act like it was nothing I went back to typing glancing up every so often but he hadn't Moved he just kept staring like he was waiting for something after a while he got up again and I felt myself tense up he walked past my table and once again dropped another crumpled piece of paper I was seriously getting annoyed

now but something in me had to know what it said so I picked it up opened it slowly and read the next note you like to sit by the window in the dining hall this One hit a little too close to home I did sit by the window in the dining hall almost every day it wasn't exactly a huge secret but still it felt wrong it wasn't just a random fact someone would know unless they'd been watching my stomach started twisting I couldn't shape the feeling that this guy knew way too much about me and

he was enjoying how uncomfortable I looked I stared at him hoping he'd look away maybe get the message and leave but He didn't he just kept looking right back at me as if he was daring me to say something I opened my mouth but no words came out I didn't even know what to say stop leaving me creepy notes didn't feel strong enough for whatever was happening here another few minutes passed and I was pretending to work not even looking at my screen anymore then then he got up again and I felt a chill go

through me I Didn't want him to come any closer didn't want him to leave another note but he did he dropped it right next to me and this time I almost didn't pick it up but I had to know this one read your dorm room faces the quad my blood ran cold he knew where I lived not just what building or floor he knew the exact room I couldn't even imagine how I looked up at him and he had this tiny smile on his face like he knew he got into me I felt trapped pinned

down by his Gaze I wanted to run to leave the library and get as far away from this guy as possible but my legs wouldn't move I finally managed to whisper what do you want my voice was shaky and I could barely get the words out I didn't even know if he heard me but then he got up again slowly like he had all the time in the world and he started walking over I thought about running about grabbing my stuff and bolting out of there but something kept me rooted to The spot he leaned

down putting his hands on the table way too close to me and whispered I just wanted to say hello after all we're neighbors I didn't know what he meant by that I didn't even want to know he was close enough that I could see every line on his face smell the faint scent of coffee on his breath then he straightened up took a few steps back and just watched me again I felt my skin crawl before I could react he reached Into his pocket and pulled out one more note he didn't drop at this time

he handed it to me directly forcing me to take it from his hand I unfolded it my hand shaking and read the words I'll be watching that was it no more no less just those three words it felt like a threat a promise something I couldn't escape I don't even remember packing up my things or leaving the library I just remember the feeling of His eyes on me as I walked out as if he was burning holes into my back I practically sprinted back to my dorm my heart pounding the whole way I didn't look

over my shoulder didn't dare check if he was following me I just locked myself in my room and sat there staring at the door listening for any sound outside I never saw him in the library again after that but for weeks I couldn't shake the feeling of being Watched it happened while I was working the night shift at this small barly L gas station I was the only one there no one else working and it was the kind of shift that's dead quiet not many people come by at 3:00 a.m. in a place that's basically

off the highway in the middle of nowhere it started out like any other night I was stocking shelves making sure everything was neat filling the coffee Machine even though it never got much use at that hour then when I turned around to wipe down the counter I noticed something hot on the window facing the parking lot there was writing on it something scratched into the dirt on the outside of the glass I moved closer trying to make it out under the flickering fluorescent lights from inside it red hello just that now that was weird right

It hadn't been there when I started my shift and there was no one around no cars outside I figured it might have been some board kids or someone messing around maybe trying to get a reaction I Shrugged it off went back to my tasks trying not to think too much about it an hour passed it was about 4:00 a.m. and I was working at the register trying to keep myself Awake then I glanced up and there it was another message this one red I can see you it was in the same spot scratched right into

the dirt again my heart was pounding because there was still no one outside no cars pulling in or leaving I walked over to the window peering into the parking lot nothing the lights outside barely reached past the edge of the lot and beyond that it was just pitch black There were no bushes or trees nowhere for anyone to hide I took a deep breath and tried to laugh it off come on I told myself it's just some creep probably thinks it's funny but as I turned back to go inside I felt this strange sensation like

I was being watched I couldn't shake it off I kept glancing back at the window half expecting to see a face staring at me but there was nothing I decided to Check the security cameras I figured maybe I'd catch a glimpse of whoever was doing this the cameras weren't great old black and white ones that only covered certain angles of the lot in the entrance I rewind when I first noticed a message scanning through the footage there was nothing just me going about my tasks no sign of anyone near the windows no movement Outside it

was like whoever did it somehow knew where to avoid the cameras I went back to my shift trying to brush it off but I kept getting these chills like I wasn't alone around 4:30 I was stocking the drinks in the cooler at the back when I heard a faint tapping sound from the front I froze holding my breath straining to listen it was like someone was tapping their fingernail on the glass just Lightly I stayed quiet waiting then the tapping stopped but a minute later I felt compel to go and check my C was twisting

I walked up slowly and as I came around the corner I saw it another message this one was right on the front window near the bottom it read are you scared yet I stood there staring at it feeling my skin crawl it was like this person knew every move I made waiting for me to turn my back so they could write another Message I knew I needed to check the cameras again but I was scared of what I'd find my hands were shaking as I went over to the Monitor and Rewind the footage watching as

the minutes tick by then I saw it right at the edge of the frame barely visible there was a figure crawling low along the ground almost slithering they stayed just out of the camera's main view but I could see enough to tell they were moving inching along the pavement until they reached The window they must have been lying down staying low to avoid the camera I felt sick this wasn't some random kid playing a prank whoever this was they knew exactly where the cameras were and they were using it to their advantage I tried to

make out details but the footage was graany and they stayed just out of Clear Sight I could see the shape of a body limbs Pressed close to the ground and that was it no face no clothing just as Shadow moving like it wasn't even human I stepped away from the monitor breathing hard my mind racing I didn't know what to do I was too scared to go outside but I didn't want to stay in there either trapped behind the counter with that figure somewhere in the dark just outside then the lights outside side flickered and

I nearly jumped out of my Skin I whipped around staring out the window searching for any sign of movement and that's when I saw the newest message scratched right into the dirt on the glass right at I level don't turn around my blood ran cold whoever this was they were watching me right then I couldn't see them but they could see me knew I was there staring at their message my instinct was to turn to look around But fear kept me Frozen My Breath came out shallow and I tried to stay calm but every nerve

in my body was screaming at me to run but I couldn't stay there forever I forced myself to move to turn and look over my shoulder praying I wouldn't see anyone and I didn't but something felt wrong like I was missing something right in front of me I scanned the windows again double-checking my hands clenching and Unclenching as I looked for anything out of place I saw one last message scrolled on the side window near the door smaller than the others almost like it was written in a hurry I had to step closer to read

it my stomach churning it said next time I'll be inside that did it I couldn't stay there any longer I cracked my keys and locked up Leaving the lights on inside I got in my car and drove out of there not caring about leaving my shift early I just wanted to get as far from that place as possible the manager was angry when I told him the next day thinking I'd left because I was bored or something I tried explaining but he just brushed it off said there was no sign of anything weird when he

checked that morning no messages on the Windows Nothing on the cameras it was like none of it ever happened but I know what I saw I still see it in my mind sometimes that figure crawling along the pavement just out of sight watching me and sometimes when I walk past dark windows or mirrors I catch myself looking expecting to see something there a message just for me waiting in the dirt I was working the late shift middle of Nowhere this stretch of road was always empty at night especially around the hills where the nearest town

was almost 20 M off no one had any reason to be out there unless they were up to something so whenever I saw a car parked on the shoulder I had to check it out it was just after 2: a.m. I spotted the car parked off to the side with no lights on that got my attention right away people usually left our hazards on if they broke down at least to be Safe but this car was dead silent headlights and tail lights completely off it was just this dark shape barely visible in the Moonlight I

pulled up behind it keeping my headlights on I I couldn't see anyone in the driver's seat from where I was sitting but I figured they'd be slumped down or maybe asleep happens more than you'd think so I got out flashlight in hand and approached the car staying a bit on Edge I tapped the back window first then the driver's side window just to be safe but there was no movement inside no answer when I shined my flashlight through the glass I didn't see anyone the car was empty not even a sign of a driver or

passenger now that was strange enough I mean who leaves a car on a deserted Highway in the middle of the night without even leaving the hazards on but then I noticed something else There was a piece of paper pinned to the seat in the back looked like a note actually a stack of them all torn out sheets held together with a clip like something someone had put together just for me to find I reached for the door handle locked I went back to my cruiser grabbed my slin gym and got the door open after a

few tries as soon as I popped the door there Was this stale musty smell that hit me like the car had been sealed up for years it didn't make sense but I didn't dwell on it I reached in and took the stack of papers the top one was facing up and my stomach dropped when I saw my name on it in big messy letters all caps written across the top officer Kelly now I hadn't told anyone I'd be patrolling this road only my station knew I was working this Stretch nobody else so right away I

started getting this sick feeling in my gut I took a closer look at the note the handwriting was shaky almost childlike the first few lines didn't make much sense something about finding what's yours and not leaving it behind it wasn't clear just a rambling mess like whoever wrote it was either angry or losing it flipping through the pages it only got worse the next sheet had a list of Places places I'd been old case scenes I'd been to intersections I'd patrolled my high school my favorite Diner back in town my actual address every location was

listed out in detail each one with the date and time I've been there like someone had been watching me for a long time following me around they knew everything the third page was the worst it had my wife's name my kids names my wife's work Schedule every single one of their details down to my daughter's bus route the park where my son had baseball practice every Thursday night all of it was there scribbled down in the same shaky writing I felt a cold sweat break out on the back of my neck and I forced myself

to keep flipping through the stack each page had something new something worse places I went on my days off a List of my regular coffee orders things I've done months ago things I didn't even think anyone noticed and at the bottom of each page in that same shaky writing they'd written a message message I know you officer Telly I kept looking around the highway half expecting to see someone standing out there just watching but it was only me in the dark dead quiet except for the arm of my Cruiser's Engine I went back to the

car scanned the area with my flashlight thinking maybe someone had gone into the brush or was hiding somewhere nearby nothing just the sound of the wind and the rustle of dry grass then I heard it a faint click I looked back at the abandoned car and my stomach turned when I saw the Dome like flicker on it had been off when I opened the door completely dead Now it was on glowing faintly like someone had just opened the door from the inside but the car was empty I checked it myself I backed up toward my

cruiser one hand on my gun the other on my flashlight never taking my eyes off off that car I knew I should call it in but something stopped me part of me didn't want anyone else involved this felt personal like whoever Had left these notes had planned this just for me bringing in backup felt wrong like it would only make things worse somehow the light flickered off again I kept my distance but I could feel something was off like a weight in the air pressing down on me then I noticed a new note one I

hadn't seen before tucked just under the driver's seat I reached for IT hand shaking and pulled it out it said don't go home tonight that was it just those four Words but they hit me like a punch to the gut this wasn't just someone messing with me they knew where I lived or my family was they were watching me even now I don't remember the drive back to the station I just know that I locked up the car and handed the keys to the guy on the next shift mumbling something about needing the night off

I left drove around aimlessly too on edge to go home I parked an a lot on the Other side of town and just sat there hard racing watching the Shadows around my car eventually when the sun started coming up I went back to the station I filed a report told my supervisor everything and asked for the night off to clear my my ADD but I never found out who it was or why they did it they' left no prints no clues just those pages filled with my life like it was all just some gain to

them