The Basement in the Woods: Paranoia

An unknown number comes up onto the screen. Who could possibly be calling me this late at night? It’s probably some spam caller. Just as I’m about to set down my phone, it makes a beeping noise, signaling that I have a message.

I open up my phone and click on the message.

.

.

.

.

.

“I’m coming.”

I read the message out loud and frown, I furrow my brows as I read the message over and over again. What could it mean? Who’s coming? Who sent me this?

My hands begin to shake violently as the paranoia starts to take over my senses. What if it’s the killer? What if it’s a stalker? What if… it’s Alex?

I shake my head. I’m seriously going insane. It’s probably just Kasey or someone from dance practice playing a prank on me. That’s all. It’s nothing serious. Besides, how would some random person suddenly get my number?

Setting my phone back down onto the bed side table, I lay down and cover myself with the sheets.

I swear I can hear floorboards creaking. It sounds like the steps outside of my room. It’s exactly how they sound when someone is walking on them.

Stop it, Ellie! No one’s inside of your house! You locked the doors, remember? If someone were to break in, you would hear… Unless you were in the shower.

I let out a groan as I rake my fingers through my scalp. I feel a sting as I dig in a bit too deep. I need to stop. I need to get sleep. If I don’t sleep, then how am I supposed to do well in my classes tomorrow?

Taking in a deep breath, I slowly relax my body.

The whole night, I couldn't shake off the feeling of someone watching me.