True Scary Stories For Sleep With Rain Sounds | True Horror Stories | Fall Asleep Quick Vol. 19

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 on a solo road trip across the country enjoying the freedom in the open road I had been driving for hours and decided to take a break

I pulled over at a rest stop to stretch my legs as I was getting back into my car a man approached me asking for a ride he looked harmless enough maybe in his mid-30s with a friendly smile he said his name was Jack and that he needed to get to the next town I hesitated for a moment but then agreed thinking it would be nice to have some company for a while he thanked me and got in the passenger seat we started driving and at first everything seemed fine we talked about the weather our travels

and the places we had been he seemed friendly and normal after about an hour his demeanor started to change he became quiet staring out the window I tried to make conversation but he gave short Curt answers then he began to make make strange comments about the other cars on the road and the people we passed he said things like I wonder what it would be like to just disappear and you never know where people are hiding I felt a not form in my stomach something was off about him I glanced at him out of the

corner of my eye and saw that he was watching me closely his smile had disappeared replaced by a hard cold look I decided to stop at the next gas station thinking I could get him out of my car there I told him I needed to use the restroom and pulled into a small rundown gas station he agreed to wait in the car but as I got out he grabbed my arm don't take too long he said his grip tight we have places to be I nodded my heart pounding and went inside I looked around for

help but saw no one the place was deserted I splashed water on my face trying to calm down and thought about my options I couldn't just leave him in my car and I didn't want to confront him directly when I came back out he was standing by the car smoking a cigarette he tossed it aside when he saw me and got back in I forced a smile and got back behind the wheel as we drove he became more agitated he started talking about how he didn't trust anyone and how people always lied to him his

voice grew louder and more aggressive I tried to stay calm agreeing with him and trying to keep the situation from escalating I saw a sign for a police station in the next town and decided to head there I hoped I could get help without him realizing what I was doing I told him I needed to make a quick stop and he clared at me but didn't say anything when we reached the town I drove towards the police station he noticed and started to panic why are we going here he demanded his voice Rising I just

need to ask for directions I lied trying to keep my voice steady he didn't believe me he crapped the steering wheel trying to pull the car off the road I fought to keep control my heart racing I managed to Swerve into the police station parking lot and slammed on the brakes before he could react I jumped out of the car and ran towards the building shouting for help he followed but two officers came out and quickly restrained him they took him inside while I tried to catch my breath I explained what had happened and they

assured me I was safe now they told me I had done the right thing by coming to them they took my statement and said they would handle it from there I was home alone during summer break my parents were on a trip and I had the house to myself it was late and I was lying in bed almost asleep suddenly I heard class shattering downstairs my heart raced as I sat up straining to listen I thought it might be a dream but then and I heard footsteps I got out of bed quietly and crept to

my bedroom door I opened it a crack and peeed out into the hallway it was dark and silent but I could hear the faint sounds of movement downstairs I needed to give my phone to call the police but I had left it in the living room I cursed myself for being so careless I tipto out of my room and headed for the stairs careful to avoid the creaky spots on the floor as I got closer to the stairs I heard voices two men were talking in hush tones they sounded like they were searching for something

I crouched down and peeed through the banister I could see Shadows moving in the living room I needed to find a way to get to my phone without being seen I decided to go through the kitchen which had a door that led to the living room I slowly made my way downstairs my heart pounding in in my chest I reached the kitchen and paused listening the men were still in the living room their voices low but urgent I moved quietly inching towards the kitchen door I opened it slowly hoping it wouldn't Creek I could see

the living room now one of the men was rumaging through drawers while the other was looking at the shelves my phone was on the coffee table just a few feet away from them I took a deep breath and crawled on the floor staying as low as possible I moved slowly my eyes never leaving the burkers I was almost at the coffee table when one of them turned around I froze my heart stopping he looked right at me but he didn't seem to see me I stayed perfectly still praying he wouldn't notice after a moment he

turned back to his search I reached the coffee table and grabbed my phone I crawled back to the kitchen my heart still racing I made it to the kitchen and closed the door behind me as quietly as I could I dialed 911 my hand shaking I whispered to the operator telling them about the burkers they said they would send officers right away and told me to stay hidden I found a spot behind the kitchen counter where I could watch the living room door I waited my foone clutched in my hand the berkers were still searching

oblivious to my presence minutes felt like hours as I waited for the police to arrive I heard one of the burlers say they needed to hurry up they sounded frustrated like they weren't finding what they were looking for finally I heard sirens in the distance the berkers heard them two and panicked they crapped a few things and ran towards the back door I stayed hidden not daring to move I heard the back door slam and the sound of footsteps running away the sirens grew louder and soon I saw flashing lights outside the police had arrived

I stayed behind the counter until I heard the police calling out announcing their presence I stood up and walked to the front door my light shaky I opened the door and saw two officers standing there they asked if I was okay and I nodded feeling A Rush of relief I told them what had happened and they searched the house to make sure the burglar were gone they took my statement and said they would investigate I called my parents and told them what had happened they were worried but glad I was safe I spent the rest

of the night in a days the adrenaline still coursing through my veins the police never caught the burlar but they said said I did the right thing by staying hidden and calling for help it was a terrifying experience and I was just glad it was over I was home one evening just relaxing after work my phone buzzed and I picked it up expecting a message from from a friend or some random notification instead there was a text from an unknown number it said nice book you're reading I glanced around feeling a bit uneasy but then

brushed it off as a weird prank I didn't think much of it and went back to my book the next day I got another text from the same number this time it said red really suits you I was wearing a red dress my heart started pounding I walked over to the window looked outside and saw nothing unusual I felt a chill run down my spine I tried to convince myself it was just a coincidence that evening I got another text dinner looks delicious I was making pasta I dropped the spoon and looked around my apartment

my hand shaking it felt like someone was in the room with with me watching every move I made I checked all the windows and doors making sure they were locked the texts kept coming describing everything I did you should get some last I was heading to bed nice pajamas I was wearing my favorite PJs I felt trapped in my own home like there was no escape from whoever was watching me I couldn't see any cameras or signs of some being inside but I felt their eyes on me all the time I called my friend Jenny

and told her what was happening she was worried and offered to come over but I told her I would be fine I didn't want to drag anyone else into this Mass I decided to try and figure it out on my own I stayed up all night trying to find any clues but there was nothing just more texts the next day I went to the police they took my report but said there wasn't much they could do without more evidence they told me to stay safe and contact them if anything escalated I felt helpless and frustrated

the text continued getting more personal and detailed you look tired I hadn't slept in days that's a beautiful necklace I was wearing a necklace my mom gave me you can't hide from me I was curled up in the corner of my bedroom feeling more terrified than ever I decided to take matters into my own hands I started looking around my apartment again more carefully this time I checked behind picture frames under furniture and inside every little Nook in crany finally I found a small camera hidden inside a fent in the living room it was positioned

to see almost the entire apartment I felt sick to my stomach I took the camera to the police hoping they could trace it back to whoever was behind this they said they would investigate but it would take time meanwhile the texts kept coming nice find the stalker knew I found the camera I felt more vulnerable than ever I decided to stay at a hotel for a few nights hoping to get away from the constant surveillance but the text followed me there too room 302 nice choice my blood ran cold I was no longer safe anywhere

I called Jenny again and she insisted on staying with me we both felt safer together but the texts kept coming describing everything we did having a friend over I see we tried to block the number but new ones kept appearing desperate we started at searching online for any information that could help us we found stories of other people experiencing similar things but no Clear Solutions we felt lost and scared the texts became more threatening you can't escape I'm always watching one night while Jenny and I were talking I got a text saying look outside we

hesitated but then peeed through the curtains a figure was standing across the street staring at my apartment I couldn't make out their face but I knew it was the stalker we called the police again but by the time they arrived the figure was gone feeling completely trapped we decided to stay with Jenny's brother who lived out of town we hoped the distance would help for a few days it was quiet no texts no signs of being watched I started to relax thinking it might finally be over then one evening a text came through nice place

the stalker had found us again I felt like breaking down but Jenny's brother Mark was determined to help he had a background in security and promised to keep us safe he set up cameras around his house and made sure all the doors and windows were secure we stayed vigilant waiting for any sign of the stalker one night we heard a noise outside Mark checked the cameras and saw a figure trying to tamper with one of them he called the police and went outside with a baseball bat to confront them the stalker ran off before Mark

could get a good luck but the police arrived quickly and started a search they found a car parked a few blocks away with equipment inside for surveillance the car was traced back to a man who had a history of stalking and harassment he was arrested and we finally felt a sense of relief the police told us it would take time to gather enough evidence for a conviction but at least he was off the streets for now I moved to a new apartment with better security and kept in close contact with Jenny and mark the text

stopped and I started to feel safe again it took time to rebuild my sense of security but I knew I had strong people around me to help last night around 11 p.m. my doorbell rang I wasn't expecting anyone so it startled me I went to the door and looked through the peep Hall there was a man in a delivery uniform holding a package I hadn't ordered anything so I hesitated I cracked the door open just a bit and asked what he wanted he said he had a delivery for me I told him I didn't order

anything and tried to close the door he put his foot in the way and insisted he had to drop off the package inside my heart started pounding something didn't feel right I firmly told him I wouldn't let him in and triy to shut the door again he pushed back harder this time almost forcing the door open I used all my strength to keep it closed and told him to leave he got angry and started shouting that he needed to come inside I was terrified I managed to push the door enough to lock it and ran

to grab my phone my hands were shaking as I dialed 911 I told the operator what was happening and she assured me help was on the way I I could hear the man banging on my door yelling threats I checked all the windows and doors making sure they were locked the banging grew louder and I heard something smash I rushed to the kitchen and saw the window was broken Panic said in as I realized he was trying to break in I crapped a knife from the kitchen drawer and hid in the pantry trying to stay

quiet I could hear him moving around outside trying to find another way in I kept telling myself the police would arrive soon but every second felt like an hour then I heard the front door being kicked the wood splintered and I knew he was inside my breath caught in my throat and I tried to stay as silent as possible I could hear his footsteps getting closer searching each room he called out taunting me saying he would find me I held the knife tightly PR he wouldn't come into the kitchen I heard him Ling through my

living room knocking things over the sound of sirens in the distance gave me a sliver of Hope but then the footsteps stopped right outside the pantry door my heart was pounding so loud I was sure he could hear it the door knob turned slowly and I braced myself suddenly he flung the door open and lunged at me I screamed and swung the knife wildly he crapped my wrist trying to wrestle it away I kicked and struggled using all my strength to fight him off the sirens were getting louder but I didn't know if they'd make

it in time we tumbled out of the pantry and I managed to break free I ran towards the front door but he caught my ankle and I fell hard pain shot through my leg but I ticked him desperately I could see the red and blue lights flashing outside inside my window with one final kick I broke free and crawled towards the door the police burst in just as he was about to grab me again they tackled him to the ground and handcuffed him relief washed over me and I collapsed sobbing the police helped me up

and checked me for injuries they said I was lucky to have called when I did they found out the man wasn't a real delivery person he had been targeted women in the area using the same tactic to get inside their homes I gave my statement still shaking from the ordeal the police assured me he would be locked up for a long time they called a locksmith to fix my door and stayed until I felt safe the forest was quiet and I enjoyed the Solitude after a few hours I realized I had lost the trail my

phone had no signal and I began to worry I tried retracing my steps but everything looked the same as the sun began to set I spotted a cabin hidden among the trees relieved I approached it hoping to find help I knocked on the door but there was no answer the place looked abandoned but the door was unlocked I decided to go inside the cabin was dark and smelled musty there was old furniture covered in dust and cobwebs I called out but there was no response I found a flashlight on a table and turned it on

the beam of light revealed more of the cabin and I noticed strange things there were maps and photos pinned to the walls the photos showed people who looked scared or hurt my stomach churned I went into another room and found a table with tools that looked like they were used for torture my heart raced and I felt sick I knew I had to leave but I heard footsteps outside Panic set in I turned off the flashlight and hid behind a large cabinet the door creeped open and I heard voices two men entered talking in low

angry tones they mentioned someone escaping and needing to find them I stayed as still as I could trying to control my breathing the men moved around the cabin and I could hear them getting closer one of them stopped near the cabinet I held my breath praying he wouldn't find me after a tense moment they moved on they discussed plans to search the forest in the morning my mind raised trying to figure out how to escape when they went into another room I quietly moved to the door I peaked out and saw them busy with something

giving me a chance to slip out I made my way back into the forest moving as quickly and quietly as I could the darkness made it hard to see and I stumbled several times I kept going fearing they would discover I was gone and come after me before Forest seemed endless I heard rustling behind me and froze the men were looking for me with flashlights I duck behind a tree hoping they wouldn't see me they passed by their lights cutting through the darkness I waited until they were far enough away before moving again hours passed

and I felt exhausted my legs were sore and my throat was dry I didn't know if I was going in the right direction but I kept moving the sky began to lighten as Dawn approached giving me a bit more visibility I found a stream and drank some water trying to gather my strength I heard voices again and knew the men were still searching I followed the stream hoping it would lead me to safety the sound of water helped mask my footsteps eventually I saw clearing up ahead my heart lifted with hope as I got closer

I saw a road relief washed over me I climbed up to the road and looked around there was no sign of a man I started walking hoping to find help soon after what felt like hours I saw a car approaching I waved frantically and it stopped the driver looked concerned and asked if I was okay I told him everything in a ride and he offered to take me to the nearest town I gratefully accepted we arrived at the town and I went straight to the police I told them about the cabin and the men they

took my statement and said they would investigate I felt a mix of relief and fear hoping the men would be caught the power went out around 900 p.m. I was home alone just settling in for the night I lit a few candles and tried to relax but the silence felt thick every little noise seemed louder in the darkness I decided to give my flashlight from the drawer in the kitchen as I made my way through the living room I heard Footsteps in the hallway outside my apartment my heart skipped a beat I hoped it was

just a neighbor but the footsteps stopped right in front of my door then came the knocking it was frantic almost desperate my stomach tightened who's there I called out trying to keep my voice steady there was no answer just more knocking I felt a chill run down my spine the knocking turned into pound Ing and I could hear someone chickling the doorknob I knew I had to act fast I moved as quietly as I could to the door and double check the lock it was Secure but I knew it wouldn't hold if someone really wanted

to get in I needed something to barricade the door my mind raced as I tried to think of what I could use the sofa was too heavy and the dining chairs seemed too flimsy the pounding on the door grew louder more more insistent I crapped in nearest chair and wedged it under the doorknob it wasn't much but it was something I backed away my heart pounding in my chest I needed to find a place to hide I made my way to the bedroom keeping my steps as quiet as possible I felt my way along the

wall my flashlight still in the kitchen where I'd left it I cursed under my breath for not crapping it sooner the darkness was oppressive and I felt vulnerable in the bedroom I closed the door softly behind me and locked it I went to the window thinking I might signal for help but the blackout had plunged the whole city Into Darkness there was no one outside no lights no movement just in Eerie Stillness the pounding at the front door stopped suddenly I strained my ears listening for any sound then I heard footsteps again moving away from

my apartment I breathed a small sigh of relief but it was short-lived the footsteps returned stopping at my bedroom door a new wave of fear washed over me I could hear breathing on the other side of the door heavy and ragged the door knob turned slowly but the lock held I backed away my mind racing I needed a weapon something to defend myself I crapped a heavy lamp from the bedside table and held it tightly my hands trembling the person on the other side of the door started pounding again shouting something I couldn't make out

it sounded angry desperate I prayed the door would hold I looked around the room trying to think of an Escape Route the window was the only option but I was on the fifth floor there was no fire or Escape no way down I felt trapped like a cornered animal I had to stay calm think clearly the pounding continued Relentless I knew the door wouldn't hold forever I moved to the closet thinking I might hide inside but it felt too obvious too confined I needed to be able to move to defend myself if it came to

that then the pounding stop again silence i h my breath waiting the silence stretched on unbearable I could hear my own heartbeat loud in my ears I crept closer to the door trying to listen for any sign of movement suddenly I heard a crash from the living room the sound of breaking glass my heart leaped into my throat they were inside I tightened my grip on the lamp ready to swing if I had to I heard footsteps again moving through the apartment searching the footsteps came closer stopping right outside the bedroom door the door knob

turned again more forcefully this time the door shuttered under the pressure but the lock held I prayed it would keep holding I needed a plan something to get me out of this then an idea came to me I remembered the fire escape ladder in the hallway outside my apartment if I could get out there I might have a chance but I had to get past whoever was trying to break in it was risky but I didn't have a choice I took a deep breath and unlocked the bedroom door I flung it open swinging the lamp

at the figure standing there I heard a crown of pain as the lamp connected and I didn't wait to see who it was was I ran for the front door my heart pounding I threw the chair aside and yanked the door open I sprinted down the hallway to the fire escape ladder my hands fumbled with a latch my mind screaming at me to hurry I could hear footsteps behind me getting closer finally the latch gave way and I pulled the ladder down I climbed as fast as I could my muscles burning with the effort I

didn't look back didn't want to see how close they were I just kept climbing higher and higher when I reached the roof I ran to the edge looking for a way down there was another ladder leading to the ground and I didn't hesitate I climbed down every muscle in my body screaming in protest I felt a surge of relief as I reached the ground I ran to the nearest building pounding on the door sh shouting for help lights flickered on inside and I heard someone moving the door opened and a man looked at me with

concern I told him what had happened and he called the police the police arrived quickly and I told them everything they searched my apartment but didn't find anyone they said the person must have escaped when I climbed the fire escape they assured me they would investigate but I knew I wouldn't feel safe there again I packed a bag and stayed with a friend for a while the memory of that night haunted me and I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched Megan and I were driving to a family reunion and somehow we took a wrong

turn the GPS lost signal and we found our Cs on a narrow Winding Road surrounded by thick Woods it was getting dark and we were completely lost the car started making strange noises and soon enough it broke down we pulled over near an old rundown house that looked abandoned I didn't want to leave the car but we had no choice there was no selfservice to call for help so we decided to check if anyone was in the house we walked up to the front door and knocked there was no answer the windows were dark and

the place looked like it hadn't been lived in for years I tried the door handle and to my surprise it opened we stepped inside calling out for anyone who might be there the inside of the house was as creepy as the outside dust covered everything and the air felt thick and musty there were old broken pieces of furniture and tattered curtains hanging from the window windows we called out again but still no answer as we were about to leave an old woman appeared at the top of the stairs she looked frail and worn out she

said she lived there alone and rarely had visitors Megan explained our situation and the old woman offered to let us use her phone we followed her into a dimly lit room the phone looked ancient but it had a dial tone I started Dialing for a tow truck but the call wouldn't go through the old woman said the phone lines were unreliable and suggested we stay the night until we could get help in the morning reluctantly we agreed she showed us to a room upstairs with two small beds it was cold and smelled of mildew but

we were too tired to argue we locked the door and tried to get some rest Megan fell asleep quickly but I couldn't shake the uneasy feeling I lay there staring at the ceiling listening to the house Creek in the middle of the night I heard Footsteps in the hallway they stopped right outside our door my heart pounded in my chest I got up quietly and peered Through the Keyhole I saw the old woman standing there just staring at our door I woke making up and Whisper what I saw we decided to stay quiet and pretend

to be asleep after a while the footsteps continued down the hall and we heard A Door Creek open and shut we stayed awake too scared to move at dawn we decided to leave the house and walk back to the main road as we were packing our things we heard the old woman talking to someone downstairs we peaked out and saw a man with a rough menacing look they were whispering and it didn't seem friendly we quietly slipped out of the room and made our way down the stairs the floorboards creaked loudly and the old woman

and the man turned to look at us their expressions were cold and hostile the man stepped towards us and we bolted for the door we ran through the woods not knowing where we were going we just needed to get away from that house we could hear them shouting behind us but we didn't stop we stumbled through the underbrush bran branches scratching our arms and faces eventually we found a small clearing and stopped to catch our breath we were completely lost but we knew we couldn't go back we kept moving hoping to find a road or

house where we could get help hours passed and we were exhausted and hungry just when we were about to give up we saw a dirt road ahead we followed it and eventually came to a small farmhouse the people people that were kind and let us use their phone we called for a tow truck and waited there until it arrived the tow truck driver took us back to our car and fixed it up we didn't mention the house or the old woman we just wanted to get out of there as fast as possible we finally made

it to the family reunion but we didn't talk about what happened it felt too surreal too terrifying Megan and I never took that route again I was in town for a business presentation and checked into a hotel near the conference center the room seemed nice enough and I started unpacking my things I was a bit nervous about the presentation so I decided to practice my speech in front of the mirror as as I was going through my notes I noticed a small blinking light in the corner of the room at first I thought it was

a smoke detector or some kind of sensor but then I realized it was coming from a tiny hole in the wall I got closer and saw a small lens inside it was a camera and it was pointed directly at the bed my art started racing someone had been watching me I felt exposed and violated I tried to think logically about what to do next I didn't want to stay in the room but I also didn't want to make a scene without being sure I took a deep breath and decided to call the front desk I

told them there was something wrong with my room and asked if someone could come up a few minutes later a man from maintenance knocked on the door I showed him the camera and he looked shocked he said he would report it to the manager right away away the manager came up shortly after and apologized profusely he said they had no idea how the camera got there and assured me they would investigate he offered me a different room and some free meals as compensation I didn't feel much better but I didn't have a choice I needed

to stay for the presentation I moved to the new room but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being watched I checked every corner every vent and every piece of furniture I found nothing but I still felt uneasy I tried to focus on my presentation but my mind kept drifting back to the camera that night I couldn't sleep every noise made me jump I kept thinking about who could have put the camera there and why I decided I had to do something more I couldn't just let it go in the morning I went to

the manager again in I demanded to know what they had found out he said they were still investigating but hadn't discovered anything yet he assured me they took my privacy seriously and were doing everything they could I didn't believe him I felt like they were just trying to cover it up I decided to take matters into my own hands I went to the local police station and reported what I had found they took my statement and said they would look in into it back at the hotel I felt even more paranoid I knew someone was

watching me but I didn't know or why I stayed in my room as much as possible and avoided interacting with anyone I kept my curtains closed and didn't use the hotel Wi-Fi the next day I had my presentation it went well but I could hardly concentrate I kept looking at the audience wondering if the person behind the camera was there watching me after it was over I went straight back to my room that evening there was a knock on my door it was the police they said they had found something they asked if they could

come in and talk I let them in and they told me they had found more cameras in other rooms it wasn't just me there were at least three other rooms with hidden cameras they said they were questioning the staff and reviewing security footage they asked if I had noticed anyone suspicious I hadn't I felt a bit of relief knowing it wasn't just me but I was still scared I didn't feel safe enough hour tell anymore the police left and I packed my things I decided to check out and stay somewhere else as I was leaving

the manager tried to apologize again but I didn't want to hear it I just wanted to get out of there I found another hotel on the other side of town it was smaller and less fancy but I felt safer I checked the room thoroughly before unpacking and didn't find anything suspicious I finally felt like I could relax a bit the police called me a few days later they said they had arrested a member of the hotel staff he had been planting the cameras and watching the footage they found recordings of several guests including me I

felt sick knowing someone had been spying on me like that I thanked the police for their work and hung up I still felt uneasy but at least I knew the person behind it was caught I finished my business trip and went home but the experience stayed with me I couldn't shape the feeling of being watched and I was extra cautious whenever I stayed in a hotel after that it was a terrifying experience and it took me a long time to feel safe again I took my boat out for a solo trip hoping for a peaceful

day on the water the weather was perfect and I felt relaxed as I sailed far from Shore the the sea was calm and there was no one else around just the way I liked it a few hours into my trip I noticed another vessel in the distance it had no lights on which seemed odd boats usually have lights on even during the day my curiosity got the better of me and I decided to get a closer look as I approached I saw men moving around on the deck they were carrying boxes and seemed to be

in a hurry when I got close enough I realized they were transferring cargo from their boat to another smaller one the closer I got the more I noticed something was off the men were armed they had G slung over their shoulders and looked tense my heart started pounding and I knew I had to get out of there I tried to turn my boat around quietly but the engine sputtered the noise caught their attention and I saw one of the men point in my Direction Panic set in and I fumbled with the controls trying to get

the Boat Moving they started shouting and leaving their arms one of them fired a shot into the air my boat finally started and I sped away as fast as I could I kept looking back terrified they were following me I didn't see them anymore but I knew I wasn't safe yet I had to get to Shore and Report what I saw I kept my eyes on the horizon hoping to spot land soon my hands were shaking and I could hardly keep the boat steady after what felt like an eternity I saw the shoreline relief washed

over me but I didn't slow down I needed to get to a marina or somewhere with people I needed help when I reached the marina I jumped out of the boat and ran to the nearest person I could find I told them what I said saw and they called the police I was out of breath and could hardly speak but I managed to explain everything the police arrived quickly and I gave them a full statement they took me seriously which was a relief they said they would send a teen to investigate the area where I

saw the other boat I stayed at the marina waiting for news I couldn't stop thinking about what could have happened if they had caught me the police came back back later and said they found evidence of illegal activity but no sign of the men or their boats they thanked me for reporting it and said they would continue investigating I was still shaken but felt a bit safer knowing they were on it I decided to stay off the water for a while and let things Settle Down The Experience Haunted me for days I kept replaying it

in my mind thinking of all the ways it could have gone wrong I was grateful to be safe but knew I had to be more cautious in the future eventually I went back to my normal routine but I never forgot that day it was a stark reminder of how quickly things can go from peaceful to dangerous I made sure to be more aware of my surroundings and trust my instincts I still loved being on the water but I was always on guard I installed better equipment on my boat and made sure I had a reliable

way to communicate in case of emergencies the the sea was still my Escape but I respected its unpredictability life went on and I found joy in my Trips Again The Fear faded but the lesson stayed with me I knew I was lucky to have gotten away safely and didn't take that for granted each trip was a reminder to stay vigilant and prepared in the end I was just grateful to have another chance to enjoy the things I loved I never saw those men again and I HED they were and brought to Justice I took my

daughter Emma to the park it was a sunny day and the park was filled with children playing and parents chatting I watched Emma run around her laughter mixing with the sounds of the park I felt relaxed enjoying the moment I noticed a man standing near a tree at first I thought nothing of it maybe he was waiting for someone but he kept glancing at Emma and something about his gaze made me uneasy he wasn't watching the other children just her I tried to shake off the feeling but it lingered I kept an eye on him

while pretending to focus on Emma the man started to move closer closer still watching her my heart began to race and I felt a knot forming in my stomach Emma ran towards the swings and the man followed at a distance I stood up and walked quickly to her I called her name and she looked at me with a big smile I reached her and took her hand pulling her close the man stopped his eyes locking with mine he had a cold unsettling look I picked up Emma and started walking towards the playground's exit the man

began to follow us my mind raced with thoughts of what to do I spotted another mom I knew from Emma's preschool I hurried over to her trying to keep my voice calm as I asked if we could walk together she saw the fear in my eyes and agreed without asking questions the man hesitated then turned and walked away I felt a away of relief but didn't let my guard down we walked to the parking lot together and I thanked my friend before heading to my car I strapped Emma into her car seat my hand shaking

as I drove home I couldn't stop thinking about the man what if he had managed to get to Emma before I noticed the thought made me feel sick I decided to be extra cautious and keep a closer watch on her from now on a few days later I I took Emma to a different Park hoping to avoid any more encounters we were playing near the sandbox when I saw him again he was standing by the entrance watching us my heart dropped I crapped Emma and headed for the car trying to stay calm the man started

walking towards us picking up his Pace I fumbled with my keys Panic setting in I managed to unlock the car and get Emma inside J just as he reached us he cracked my arm and I screamed for help a nearby jogger heard me and ran over yelling at the man to back off the man let go and fled I thanked the jogger and called the police my hands were shaking so badly I could barely dial the police arrived quickly and took my statement they searched the area but couldn't find the man they assured me they

would keep an eye out and advis me to be cautious I felt a little better but still shaken over the next few days I was on high alert every time I left the house I looked around nervously I didn't take Emma to the park or anywhere public I couldn't shake the feeling that the man was still out there watching us one evening as I was putting him of bed I heard a noise outside I peeed through the curtains and saw a figure standing near near our fence my heart pounded as I called the police they

arrived quickly and searched the area again but found nothing the police advised me to install security cameras and consider getting a restraining order if I saw him again I took their advice and set up cameras around the house I also talked to my neighbors asking them to keep an eye out a week later the cameras caught him lurking near our front door I called the police and they finally managed to catch him he had a record of similar incidents and was arrested I felt a huge sense of relief knowing he was behind bars The Experience

left me shaken but I was determined to protect my family I stayed Vigilant always aware of my surroundings it took a while for the fear to fade but eventually I felt safer knowing he was no longer a threat I still take Emma to the park but I'm always on guard I never let her out of my sight and always stay close the incident taught me to trust my instincts and always be prepared my family's safety is my top priority and I won't let anything happen to them again life slowly returned to normal but I'll never

forget the fear I felt that day I reconnected with an old friend from high school named Steve we hadn't spoken in years but we caught up over social media Steve invited me to stay at his Farmhouse for the weekend it was supposed to be a quiet getaway when I arrived Steve greeted me warmly The Farmhouse was old but well kept it stood alone in a fast field miles from the nearest neighbor we spent the evening reminiscing about our school days laughing and drinking as the night wore on Steve showed me to the guest room it

was simple with a bed and a small dresser I felt uneasy but I couldn't Place why maybe it was the isolation or maybe just the years apart that made things feel different I went to bed but I couldn't sleep the house was too quiet and every little Creek made me jump around midnight I heard voices coming from downstairs curious I got of bed and crept towards the door the voices were clearer now Steve was talking to someone else someone I hadn't seen I opened the door crack and listened they were discussing something serious their tones

low and Urgent you can't let him leave the other voice said he knows too much now I felt a chill run down my spine who were they talking about I stayed still trying to hear more we'll take care of it in the morning Steve replied make sure he doesn't suspect anything tonight my heart pounded they were talking about me I had to get out of there I closed the door quietly and looked around the room for my things I cracked my back backpack and shoes moving as silently as I could I remembered the car kees

were downstairs in the living room I would have to go down there past Steve and the other man I took a deep breath and opened the door again slipping into the hallway the stairs creaked under my weight but the voices in the kitchen masked the sound I made it to the living room and spotted my keys on the coffee table I picked them up my hand trembling I heard a chair scrape against the floor they were moving I had to hurry I had it for the front door but it was locked the key was in

the kitchen where Steve and the other man were I couldn't risk it I needed another way out I remembered the back door in the kitchen maybe there was a way to distract them I looked around and saw the old phone on the wall I picked it up and dialed 911 but I didn't say anything I hoped the Open Line would bring help I hung up and moved towards the kitchen the door was slightly a jar and I could see Steve and the other man standing by the table I had to create a distraction I picked

up a face from the table and threw it against the wall the crash was loud and the men turned towards the noise I ducked into the shadow as they walked towards the living room looking for the source I slipped into the kitchen and headed for the back door it was unlocked I opened it slowly and stepped outside into the cool night air I could hear the men searching the living room their voices Angry I ran towards the barn hoping to hide there until I could figure out my next move the barn was dark and smelled

of hay I found a spot behind some mold equipment and crouched down trying to calm my breathing I listened for any sounds of pursuit but all I could hear was my own heartbeat I stayed there for what felt like hours though it was probably only minutes I heard the sound of a car engine starting and I peaked out of the barn the headlights of Steve's truck were on and he was backing out of the driveway he was leaving I had to move quickly I ran back to to the house and grabbed my backpack from the

living room the front door was still locked but I found a window that was slightly open I pushed it up and climbed through scraping my hands on the cell I ran to my car fumbling with the keys I started the engine and drove off my hand shaking on the wheel I didn't stop until I reached the nearest town I parked at a gas station and called the police telling them everything they took my statement and promised to investigate they found the Farmhouse empty Steve and the other man were gone and there was no sign of

them I never heard from Steve again and I never went back to that Farmhouse Peter and I rented a secluded cabin for a romantic getaway we were excited to spend some quiet time together away from the city the cabin was cozy surrounded by trees and Far From Any neighbors it felt like our little Paradise the first day was perfect we hyped cooked a nice dinner and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings by Nightfall we were sitting by the fireplace talking and laughing it was the perfect Escape Escape as it got late we decided to go to bed

the cabin was silent except for the occasional rustle of leaves outside I fell asleep quickly feeling safe and content in the middle of the night I woke up there was a noise outside like footsteps crunching on gravel at first I thought it was an animal but the sound was too deliberate I notched Peter awake Whispering that I heard heard something Peter got up and peered out the window his face went pale he motioned for me to come over and I looked out a group of men was approaching the cabin they were carrying weapons axes and

crowbars fear cried me we had to hide we quickly and quietly moved to the closet in the bedroom I tried to steady my breathing but my heart was pounding so loudly I was sure they would hear it Peter held my hand his tight and reassuring through a crack in the closet door I saw the men reach the cabin they surrounded it speaking in hush tones one of them knocked on the door the sound echoing through the cabin when there was no answer they started trying to force their way in the front door shook as they

tried to break it down I squeezed Peter's hand feeling A Rush of Panic we needed to signal for help but we couldn't let them know where we were Peter had his phone but there was no signal this deep in the woods the men got the door open and entered the cabin I could hear them moving around their footsteps heavy on the wooden floor they were ransacking the place looking for something I could hear glass breaking in Furniture being overturned Peter whispered that we needed to find a way to call for help he remembered that there

was an old landline phone in the living room but we would have to get to it without being seen it was a risky plan but we had no choice we waited for a moment when the men were in another part of the cabin then we slipped out of the closet and crept towards the living room I could see the phone on a small table near the window my heart raced as we moved silently across the room just as we reached the phone one of them men came back into the living room we duck behind the

couch holding our breath he was close too close I could hear him breathing could see his boots from under the couch he walked past us and went into the kitchen we seized the opportunity Peter grabbed the phone and dialed 911 he whispered our location and situation to the operator praying they could trace the call even if we got cut off the operator assured us that help was on the way but we had to stay hidden we hun up and craw back towards the bedroom the men were still searching the cabin getting more frustrated by the

minute we could hear them arguing back in the bedroom we had under the bed this time trying to stay as quiet as possible every minute felt like an hour I clung to Peter my mind racing with fear I kept praying that the police would arrive soon the men were getting more aggressive smashing things and shouting it seemed like they were looking for something specific but we had no idea what I was terrified they would find us before help arrived finally after what felt like an eternity we heard sirens in the distance the men heard them

too they cursed and started to leave running out the front door and disappearing Into the Woods I didn't dare move until I heard the sirens right outside the cabin we crawled out from under the bed as the police burst in guns drawn they found us in the bedroom shaking and scared but unarmed we told them everything that happened they searched the area but didn't find them men the police stayed with us the rest of the night they said it was likely a group of criminals looking for something hidden in the cabin we never found out

what they were after after but we were just glad to be safe last week I was woken up by a strange noise it was late probably around 2:00 a.m. at first I thought it was just the wind or something outside but then I heard it again it sounded like some trying to open a window my heart started to race I got out of bed as quietly as I could my daughter Lily was asleep in her room down the hall I crept to her door and peeed in she was still sleeping peacefully I didn't want to

scare her but I had to make sure she was safe I went back to my room and grabbed my phone I called 911 and whispered to the operator that someone was trying to break into my house she told me to stay on my line and that help was on my way I felt a little better knowing the police were coming but I knew I had to protect Lily until they got here I went back to Lily's room and gently shook her awake she was crocky and confused but I told her we needed to hide I

led her to the closet and told her to stay quiet no matter what she nodded her eyes white with fear just as I closed the closet door I heard a loud crash from downstairs the Intruder had broken a window and was inside my hands were shaking as I tried to think of what to do next I didn't have any weapons just a phone and a will to protect my child I could hear footsteps moving through the house they were getting closer I hid behind the bedroom door hoping he wouldn't come in the footsteps paused outside

the door and my heart felt like it was going to burst out of my chest the door slowly creeped open I held my breath clutching the phone in my hand the Intruder stepped into the room I could see his shadow in the dim light he was looking around probably searching for valuables he moved towards the dresser giving me a chance to slip out of the room I tiptoed down the hall and into the bathroom I needed to find something to defend myself with I opened the cabinet and found a pair of scissors it wasn't much

but it was better than nothing I could hear the intruder rumaging through my things I prayed he wouldn't find Lily I crept back towards the bedroom trying to stay as quiet as possible the floor creeped under my weight and I froze the footsteps stopped I could could hear my own breathing loud and shaky I peeed around the corner and saw the Intruder standing still listening I held my breath willing him to move on after what felt like an eternity he continued searching I moved closer scissors in hand I knew I had to be ready to

protect Lily if he found her I positioned myself near the closet ready to jump out if needed the Intruder was pulling out doors tossing things aside he hadn't noticed the closet yet suddenly there was a loud bang from downstairs the Intruder froze and I Heard a Voice shout police come out with your hands up relief washed over me but I knew it wasn't over yet the Intruder panicked and ran towards the door I stepped out and swung the scissors aiming for his arm I managed to cut him and he cried out in pain he turned

and shoved me hard knocking me to the ground he bolted out of the room and down the stairs I heard the police shouting and the sound of a struggle I got up and opened the closet door Lily was huddled in the corner tears streaming down her face I hugged her tight Whispering that it was going to be okay the police came up a few minutes later they had the Intruder in him handcuffs one of the officers stayed with us while the others searched the house they found the broken window and the mess the Intruder had

made the officer took our statements and assured us that the Intruder wouldn't be coming back they said he was a known criminal and would be going to jail for a long time I felt a sense of relief but I was still shaken Lily and I stayed with my sister for the rest of the night I couldn't bear the thought of going going back to the house so soon last night was a shift like no other I work as a security guard in a big office building downtown usually it's pretty quiet I make my rounds check

the cameras and make sure everything is locked up but last night something happened I still can't shake it was around 1:00 a.m. when I got a call on the building's emergency line it's a direct line meant for real emergencies only I answered it right away a woman's voice was on the other end trembling and scared she said she was being held against her somewhere in the building I asked her where she was trying to stay calm she said she didn't know exactly but described a room with no windows and a heavy door my mind raised

I knew the building inside and out and I couldn't think of a room like that I told her to stay quiet and that I would find her I crapped my flashlight and set out to check every floor I started on the ground floor and worked my way up each floor was empty just dark offices and locked doors I kept the phone on me hoping she call back with more information as I reached the top floor I felt a chill the top floor was supposed to be empty no businesses no offices just storage but the woman's

voice was so real so desperate I checked every storage room but they were all empty I went back to the security office to check the cameras I rewind the footage looking for anything unusual that's when I saw something strange on one of the cameras I saw a shadow moving in a hallway on the top floor it was quick but definitely there I had it back up heart pounding I checked the hallway where I saw the shadow but there was nothing no signs of anyone I started to think I was imagining things but then I heard

a faint noise like a door creaking I followed the sound to a wall at the end of the hallway it looked like a regular wall but when I pressed on it it moved I hidden door I couldn't believe it I pushed it open and found a dark staircase leading down I took a deep breath and descended the stairs at the bottom was a heavy metal door just like the woman described I knocked softly and called out to her she answered right away her voice full relief I told her to stand back and try the handle

it was locked I looked around and saw a tead on the wall I had no idea what the Cod could be I asked her if she knew but she said her captors always punched it in too fast for her to see I had to think fast I remembered seeing a keypad in the security office with a list of default codes for emergency use I told her I'd be right back and ran up the stairs my legs felt like lead as I sprinted to the office I found the list and ran back down I tried the

first code nothing the second still nothing on the third try the door clicked open I pushed it open and saw her tied to a chair in the middle of the room she looked terrified but unarmed I rushed to her and untied her she thanked me over and over tears streaming down her face I told her we needed to get out of there before her captors came back we hurried up the stairs and out into the hallway just as we reached the main hallway I heard voices the captors were coming back I led her to a

nearby office and we had inside holding our breath the voices got closer then stopped right outside the door I could see Shadows moving under the door they were looking for her my heart was pounding so loud I was sure they could hear it but after a few tense minutes they moved on we waited a bit longer then made our way out we got to the ground floor and out the front door I called the police as soon as we were outside they arrived quickly and took the woman to safety they searched the building but didn't

find the capts they had vanished the police questioned me for hours I told them everything I knew but there were still so many questions who were these people why was she being held and how did they know the building so well I didn't get any answers that night I went home exhausted and shaken I couldn't sleep replaying everything in my mind the woman's voice the hidden door the Shadows under the door it all felt like a nightmare today I'm still trying to process it all the building feels different now less safe I keep thinking about

that woman and what she went through I'm just glad I was there to help even if I don't have all the answers I don't know if I'll ever feel completely safe again but I do know one thing I'll always trust my instincts if I hadn't listened to that call who knows what might have happened to her it was late around midnight and I was driving home from a friend's house the highway was empty and dark just a long stretch of road with no other cars in sight I was tired but focused on getting home then

I saw it an abandoned car on the side of the road hazard lights blinking I slowed down and pulled over terrious but cautious the car looked old beaten up its driver's side door was open I got out of my car the night Air Cold against my skin I walked up to the car peering inside no one was there the front seat was empty but but I noticed something odd the keys were still in the ignition I was about to walk back to my car when I heard it a faint thumping noise like someone banging on

metal it was coming from the trunk my heart started to race I hesitated unsure what to do I looked around the darkness pressing in on me no signs of anyone else taking a deep breath I walked to the back of the car the thumping got louder I found the trunk release lever inside the car and pulled it the trunk popped open with a creek inside was a man his hands and feet tied with rope his mouth gagged his eyes were wide with fear I quickly removed the gag and he gasped for air help me he

whispered his voice horse I was kidnapped please untie me my mind was racing I looked around again worried the kidnappers might still be nearby I didn't know if I should untie him or run for help but his eyes pleaded with me and I couldn't leave him there I started to untie the ropes my hand shaking who did this to you I asked trying to keep my voice steady I don't know he said wincing as the ropes loosened they crabbed me from a parking lot threw me in the trunk I think they went to get something

and left me here I freed his hands and feet and he climbed out of the trunk rubbing his wrists where the ropes had been tight thank you he said his voice trembling we need to get out of here before they come back I nodded my fear growing we hurried to my car glancing around for any sign of the kidnappers as we kep got in I heard it dist an engine headlights appeared on my Horizon moving fast Panic surged for me get down I told the man and he ducked into the back seat I started the

car and sped off my heart pounding in my chest the other car got closer its headlights glaring in my rearview mirror I pushed the gas pedal harder praying they wouldn't catch up the man in the back seat kept looking behind us faster he urged they can't catch us I took a sharp turn onto a side road hoping to lose them the road was bumpy and narrow branches scraping against the car the headlights faded behind us I kept driving not daring to slow down after what felt like an eternity we reached a small town I pulled

into a gas station breathing hard the man and I got out looking around to make sure we weren't followed the place was quiet almost deserted we need to call the police I said my voice shaky the man nodded yes but we need to be careful they might be looking for us we went inside the gas station the clerk gave us a strange look but didn't say anything I used the pay phone to call the police explaining what happened as clearly as I could they said they'd send someone right away we waited outside the minutes ticking

by slowly the man was still on edge glancing around nervously I tried to stay calm but my mind was racing with what could have happened if I hadn't stopped finally a police car pulled up two officers got out and approached us I told them everything from finding the car to free the man from the trunk they took our statements and said they'd searched the area for the kidnappers they offered to take us to the station for safety the man and I agreed relieved to be with the police as we drove away I looked back at

the dark Road thankful that we had escaped at the station they questioned us more trying to piece together what happened the man didn't know much about his kidnappers just that they wore masks and didn't say much the police promised to investigate and keep us updated I left the station as Dawn was breaking exhausted but relieved the man thank me again before we parted ways I drove home the sun rising in the sky grateful to be safe I was driving cross country to visit some old friends after a long day on the road I decided to

stop in a small town for the night it was one of those places that time seemed to forget with just a few buildings and a single Main Street I found a cheap motel and checked in my body aing from the drive after dropping my bags in the room I added to the only bar in town I figured a drink would help me and L before getting some sleep the bar was small and dimly lit with a few locals nursing their drinks I sat at the far end ordered a beer and tried to blend in a

group of four men sat at a table near the middle talking in hush tones I didn't pay them much attention at first but then their conversation caught my ear they were discussing something serious their voices tense I strained to hear without looking obvious one of them mentioned a robbery that happened the previous night they talked about how easy it was to break into the house and how they got away with a lot of money my heart started pounding these guys were criminals and I was sitting just a few feet away from them I kept my

head down trying to act natural but I couldn't help but listen they discussed splitting the money and what they would do if anyone found out one of them a guy with a beard looked around the bar suspiciously his eyes landed on me for a moment and I quickly looked away pretending to be engrossed in my drink my mind raised I needed to get out of there without drawing attention to myself I waited for a moment when they seemed distracted and quietly stood up I walked to the bathroom trying to act casual once inside I splashed

some water on my face trying to calm down I knew I had to leave the bar in the town as quickly as possible I waited in the bathroom for a few minutes hoping they wouldn't notice my absence I thought it was safe I slowly opened the door and peeed out the men were still at their table deep in conversation I took a deep breath and headed for the exit as I walked past their table one of them looked up and saw me hey you he called out I froze my heart racing you hear something you

shouldn't have I shook my head trying to play dumb just passing through I said my voice shaky didn't hear anything the tall guy with the beard stood up his eyes narrowing I don't believe you he said stepping closer why don't you sit down for a bit I knew I was in trouble I glanced around the bar but the other patrons were minding their own business I had to think fast I really need to get going I said trying to keep my voice steady long drive ahead he crapped my arm his tight I said sit down

he crawled the other men stood up too closing in on me panic set in I had to get out of there with without thinking I yanked my arm free and bolted for the door I heard them shout and the sound of chairs scraping against the floor as they chased after me I burst through the door and ran into the night my heart pounding in my ears the town was dark and quiet the only light coming from a few Street lamps I sprinted down the Main Street not looking back I could hear their footsteps behind me

getting closer I turned down an alley hoping to lose them in the Maze of buildings I duck behind a dumpster trying to catch my breath the footsteps grew louder and I heard their angry voices calling out to each other I stayed as still as possible praying they wouldn't find me after what felt like an eternity the footsteps started to fade I waited a few more minutes then cautiously peaked out the street was empty I knew I couldn't stay there there I had to get back to my car and get out of town I crept out

of the alley keeping to the Shadows my car was parked outside the motel a few blocks away I moved quickly glancing around nervously when I reached the motel I saw the men near my car searching the area my heart sank they were waiting for me I needed a distraction I picked up a rock and threw it down the street hitting a metal trash can the noise echoed through the night and the men looked up running toward the sound I took my chance and sprinted to my car fumbling with the keys I got in and started

the engine my hand shaking the men realized what was happening and started running back toward me shouting I slammed on the gas and sped away not looking back as I drove out of town my heart slowly began to calm down I kept driving until I reached the next town not stopping until I was sure I was far away from those men I found another motel and checked in locking the door behind me I lay in bed my mind racing I couldn't believe what had happened I was just lucky to have escaped I knew I had

to report why I overheard to the police but for now I was just grateful to be safe I was lying in bed trying to fall asleep when I heard it again the noise from the apartment above mine it sounded like muffled cries in Furniture being dragged at first I thought it was just my imagination while the neighbors moving things around but it happened almost every night I couldn't ignore it anymore one night curiosity got the better of me I decided to investigate I put on my robe and slippers and stepped into the hallway it was

quiet almost early so I crept upstairs trying to be as quiet as possible the noises grew louder as I approached the apartment above mine my heart was pounding in my chest I reached the door and listened it was definitely someone crying a woman's voice I knew my landlord Mr Jenkins lived here he was always friendly but something felt off I knocked on the door but there was no answer the crying stopped suddenly and I felt a chill run down my spine I didn't want to leave without knowing what was going on I went back to

my apartment and grabbed a bobby pin from my drawer I had seen enough movies to know how to pick a lock or at least I hoped I did I returned to the door and started fiddling with the lock after a few tense minutes it clicked open I pushed the door open slowly and peaked inside the apartment was dark but I could see a light coming from under a door at the end of the hallway I tiptoed inside my hand shaking as I got closer to the door I heard the crying again mixed with soft whimpers

I opened the door and saw my neighbor Sarah tied to a chair her face was bruised and she looked terrified she saw me and her eyes whitened with hope I rushed to her side and started untying the ropes we need to get out of here I whispered she nodded too scared to speak just as I freed her hands I heard the front door open my blood ran cold Mr Jenkins was back we had to hide I helped Sarah up and we slipped into a closet just as Mr Jenkins walked into the room he looked around

suspicious I know someone's here he said in a low voice Sarah clung to me her breath shaky I held my breath praying he wouldn't find us Mr Jenkins started searching the room opening drao and looking under the bed he was getting closer to the closet I felt like my heart would explode he reached for the closet door and I braced myself just then his foam rang he stopped and answered it stepping out of the room I took the opportunity and whispered to Sarah we need to move now we slipped out of the closet and crept

toward the front door Mr Jenkins was still on on the phone is back to us we made it to the door and I carefully opened it it creeped and Mr Jenkins turned around his eyes narrowing hey he shouted but we were already running down the stairs we burst out of the building and land down the street I didn't stop until we reached a busy area we found a pay phone and I called the police Sarah was shaking but she managed to tell them what happened they said they were on their way we waited hiding in

the shadows I kept looking around terrified that Mr Jenkins would find us finally the police arrived they took Sarah's statement and went to the building to arrest Mr Jenkins I felt a mix of relief and fear what if he had accomplice what if he got away the police assured us they would hand it they took Sarah to the hospital and offered me a right home I declined too scared to go back instead I stayed with a friend for a few nights until I felt safe again it turned out Mr Jenkins had been holding Sarah captive

for weeks he had a history of violence but no one suspected him I was just glad I could help her even though the experience left me shaken I moved out of the building a month later her I couldn't stay there after what happened every noise every Creek reminded me of that night I found a new place far away and tried to move on but the memory of Sarah's terrified face and the sound of Mr jenkin's Voice still haunt me I noticed a man early in the morning dressed in a utility worker uniform inspecting the houses

on my street he wore a hard hat and had a tool belt slung around his waist he seemed to be checking the meters or something I didn't think much of it at first utility workers come by often enough it wasn't until he lingered in front of my house longer than usual that I got suspicious he kept glancing around nervously which put me on edge I decided to watch him for a bit from my window just to be sure everything was all right he moved to my front door and took out a small device pretending to

skin something I felt a pit in my stomach I knew something wasn't light I kept watching my heart pounding he then walked around to the side of my house out of my line of sight I quickly moved to another window to keep an eye on him that's when I saw him trying to open one of the windows he was no utility worker this was a berkler plain and simple I took a deep breath trying to calm my nerves my police training kicked in I knew I had to act fast I cracked my phone and called

the police Whispering the situation to the dispatcher I didn't want to alert the burlar that I was on to him I then went to my my closet and pulled out my old service weapon I hadn't used it in years but I kept it clean and ready just in case I crept down the stairs trying to be as quiet as possible I could hear the man now jiggling the window lock muttering to himself I positioned myself near the back door my gun in hand I knew I had to confront him but I didn't want to shoot

unless I absolutely had to the window finally came way and I heard him climbing inside I took a deep breath and stepped into the hallway my ConEd at him stop right there I shouted the man froze his eyes wide with shock he didn't expect anyone to be home let alone armed get down on the ground hands behind your head I ordered he hesitated for a moment then slowly lowered himself to the floor I kept my un trained on him my heart racing I didn't know if he was armed but I couldn't take any chances I

moved closer still keeping my distance why are you breaking into my house I demanded he didn't answer just stared at me with a mix of fear and anger I could hear sirens in the distance getting closer relief washed over me the police arrived within minutes bursting through the the front door I kept my gun pointed at the man until the officers took over cuffing him and Hauling him to his feet I finally lowered my weapon my hand shaking one of the officers a young woman came over to me are you all right sir she asked

I nodded still trying to catch my breath I'm fine just a bit shaken up I replied she took my statement while her col searched the man in the rest of the house they found burky Tools in his pockets and a knife I shuddered at the thought of what could have happened if I hadn't been prepared the officers led the man out to their patrol car and I watched from the doorway still in disbelief after they left I locked all the doors and windows double-checking everything I sat down in the living room trying to calm myself

it was over but I couldn't shake the feeling of unease someone had tried to invade my home My Sanctuary I called my wife who was out of town visiting family I told her what happened trying to sound calm but I could hear the fear in my voice she was shocked and worried but I assured her I was okay that night I couldn't sleep every noise made me jump every Creek of the house set my heart racing I kept my gun close just in case the image of the man's face his wide eyes staring at me

was burned into my mind in the days that followed I installed a security system complete with cameras and alarms I needed to feel safe again needed to know that my home was protected the police kept me updated on the case the man was a known burlar wanted for several break-ins in the area it took a while but I eventually started to feel normal again I went back to my routine though I was always more cautious always more aware of my surroundings The Experience had changed me made me realize how vulnerable we all are I was

grateful for my training for the skills that allowed me to protect my home but more than that I was grateful that it ended without anyone getting hurt it was a terrifying reminder of how quickly things can go wrong but also of the strength we find in our elves when we needed most I rented a cabin by a lake to work on my novel the place was quiet perfect for writing it was old but cozy the lake shimmered in the sunlight and the trees around it rustled softly in the breeze I thought it was just what

I needed to get away from the noise of the city on the second day I noticed something hot about the cabin there was a section of the floor in the living room that sounded Hollow when I walked over it curiosity got the better of me and I decided to investigate I moved the rug and saw a trap door it took some effort to pry it open but I managed below was a small dark room I used my phones flashlight to look around there were old dusty boxes and a table with a few papers scattered on

it I climbed down and started going through the boxes most of them had old clothes and books but one had photos they were of a man tied to a chair bruised and bleeding my heart started pounding this wasn't what I expected to find I went through the papers on the table there were notes about the man and in the photos they talked about deaths and warnings and how he wouldn't listen it was clear he had been tortured I felt sick to my stomach I wanted to leave but I heard a noise from above someone was

in the cabin I froze listening footsteps moved across the floor then stopped I heard voices they were talking about coming back to check on the place making sure no one found anything Panic set in I had to get out of there but I couldn't go up now they would see me I stayed as quiet as possible hoping they wouldn't come down they moved around checking rooms talking about the last time they were there one of them mentioned the guy in the photos my heart sank they were the ones who did this I had to think

fast I saw a small window near the ceiling of the Hidden room it was a tight squeeze but I could fit I carefully climbed up and pushed it open trying not to make any noise I squeezed through and fell into the bushes outside I heard one of the men coming closer so I stayed low and crawled away from the cabin once I was far enough I got up and ran I didn't know where to go just away the woods were thick and I stumbled a few times but I kept going I found a spot to

hide and catch my breath my mind was racing I needed to get help but my phone was still in the cabin I decided to head towards the nearest town it was a few miles away but I didn't have a choice I kept off the main paths sticking to the trees I didn't want them to find me every noise made me jump I was scared they were following me it started getting dark and I was still in the woods I found a large tree in it behind it trying to stay calm I waited for a while

listening for any signs of them it was quiet but I didn't feel safe I needed to keep moving I finally saw lights in the distance it was the town relief was over me but I couldn't relax yet I hurried towards the lights trying to stay hidden I reached the edge of the town and saw a gas station I went inside and asked the clerk to call the police the police arrived quickly I told them everything from the hidden room to the men in the cabin they took me seriously and sent officers to check it out

they found the cabin in the room but the men were gone they said I did the right thing by running they took me to the station to get my statement it was late and I was exhausted but I was safe they promised to investigate and keep me updated I was just glad to be away from that cabin a few days later they called they found the man they had a history of crime including the kidnapping and torture of the man in the photos they were arrested and I felt a sense of relief knowing they were

caught I went back to the city deciding I had enough of cabins and lakes for a while it was a terrifying experience but I was glad I got alive I'm more cautious now but I still love writing I just do it from the safety of my apartment I decided to take a shortcut through the forest to get to a party it was late and I wanted to save time the path was dark with only the moonlight filtering through the trees it seemed like a good idea at the time as I walked I heard strange noises

coming from deeper in the forest I tried to ignore it thinking it was just animals but then I saw a flickering line ahead like a campfire curiosity got the better of me so I went closer when I reached the clearing I froze there were a group of men digging a hole they had flashlights and shovels and they were working quickly my heart started to race I was about to turn back when I saw what they were burying it was a body wrapped in a sheet Panic set in I stepped back slowly trying not to make

a sound I didn't want them to see me but just as I turned to leave one of the men looked up he saw me and shouted to the others I knew I had to run I sprinted back towards the path I came from my breath coming in ragged gasps I could hear the men yelling and crashing through the trees behind me they were coming after me my mind raced as I tried to remember the away the forest was dense and I stumbled over roots and rocks I didn't dare look back but I could hear the

sounds getting closer I had to find a way out I saw a small hill and decided to climb it hoping I could see where I was going from the top I made it to the top breathless and panicked I looked around trying to give my bearings in the distance I saw lights it had to be the road or Al I started heading towards them hoping I wasn't too far from safety the men were still chasing me their voices grew louder and I could hear them getting closer I pushed myself harder ignoring the pain in my

legs I reached the edge of the forest and saw the road below I was almost there I ran down the hill and reached the road I flight down the first car I saw nearly jumping into the street the driver slammed on the brakes looking startled I told him what happened and he quickly called the police while waiting for the police I stayed as far from the forest as I could my heart was still racing and I couldn't stop shaking I watched the forest afraid the men would come out after me the police arrived shortly after

I gave them all the details I could remember they went into the forest to investigate and I stayed at the edge too scared to go back in they searched for a while but the men were gone the police found the body and some of the equipment the men used they told me it was a known crime scene the men were part of a group involved in several criminal activities I was relieved they were caught but the whole experience left me shaken I went to the park part eventually but I couldn't shake the feeling of dread

I kept looking over my shoulder expecting someone to be following me I told a few people about what happened but they didn't seem to understand the gravity of it the police kept me updated they arrested the men and recovered more evidence it was all over the news I tried to go back to my normal life but the fear stayed with me I avoided the forest and took the the long way around whenever I could the whole thing made me realize how dangerous it can be to take shortcuts it's not just about saving time I learned

that sometimes it's better to stick to the known paths no matter how tempting it is to stray from them I was working late into the night trying to meet a deadline for a big project my apartment was quiet save for the soft hum of my computer it was just past midnight when I heard a loud banging coming from the apartment next door I tried to ignore it but it kept going the noise was constant and rhythmic like something heavy being dropped repeatedly it was driving me crazy I got up and knocked on the door of

the neighboring apartment no one answered I knocked harder and still nothing I decided to call the landlord I explained the situation but he told me he couldn't do anything until the morning that didn't help me at all the banging continued and it felt like it was getting louder after another hour of the Relentless noise I called the landlord again he said the same thing I was getting really really frustrated and worried I started to think something might be wrong I couldn't just sit there and do nothing I went back to my apartment and tried to

work but the noise was too distracting I couldn't focus I decided I needed to check it out myself I crapped a flashlight and headed for the door when I reached the neighboring apartment I noticed the door was slightly a jar I hesitated but then pushed it open a bit the noise was even louder now I stepped inside trying to be as quiet as possible the apartment was dark except for the light coming from under the door to the back room I could hear movement and muffled voices my heart was pounding in my chest I carefully

approached the door and peeped through the crack inside I saw a man and a woman they were moving around a room filled with B boxes and bags they were packing things quickly there were strange objects in what looked like bags of something it was clear they were up to something illegal I didn't want to confront them directly I slipped back out of the apartment and went back to mine I called the landlord again demanding immediate action he finally said he would send someone over but it would still be a while I felt trapped the noise

had stopped but I didn't want to stay in my apartment with those people next door I decided to call the police I explained everything and said I was worried about my safety they promised to send an officer as soon as possible while waiting I kept an eye on the hallway I was afraid they might come out and find me I could hear them moving around talking in low voices I stayed hidden making not to make a sound the minutes felt like hours finally I heard the sound of sirens approaching relief washed over me I heard

the police knock on the neighbor's door and then enter I stayed hidden waiting for them to come back out when the police came out they said they had found evidence of drug dealing and other illegal activities the man and woman were taken into custody I was shaking but relev that it was over the landlord finally showed up to check the apartment he apologized for the delay and said he would make sure the apartment was cleaned up and secured I thanked him but was still on edge the police gave me a statement to fill out asking

for details about what I saw and heard I did my best to provide accurate information they assured me that they would keep an eye on the situation and make sure it was safe I couldn't sleep that night I kept replaying the events in my mind worrying about what might have happened if I hadn't called for help the whole experience left me anxious and shaken the next day I was able to get back to work but I couldn't shake the feeling of unease I kept checking to make sure everything was Secure and that there were no

more disturbances it took a while for me to feel comfortable in my apartment again I made sure to keep an eye on my my surroundings and stayed alert the incident made me realize how important it is to trust your instincts and act quickly in dangerous situations the whole thing was a terrifying experience but I was grateful that I got out of it safely I pulled into the fuel station on the outskirts of town around 11:00 p.m. it was one of those places that felt a little too isolated even though it was the only one for

Miles the neon sign flickered overhead casting an eerie glow I needed gas and hoped I could get in and out quickly the place was empty which wasn't surprising given the hour I parked at the pump and as I got out I noticed the clerk inside the small Booth he was staring right at me I tried to ignore it and focused on filling my tank the clerk was an older man with a cran beard and glasses that seemed a bit too big for his face he finally came outside when I was halfway done he walked over

with a kind of Shuffle his eyes fixed on me I couldn't shape the feeling that something was off evening he said his voice strangely cheery for such a late hour evening I replied trying to be polite while keeping my distance he started talking about the weather the lack of business and how he wished it was busier I gave short responses trying to get the transaction over with he seemed to take my disinterest as an invitation to keep talking I went inside to pay and he followed me still chatting there was an uncomfortable energy in the

small dimly lit shop I glanced around noticing that the place was not as well kept as one would expect there were old newspapers piled up and empty coffee cups scattered around as I waited for the transaction to process I noticed the clerk's eyes stting to the back of the store where there was a door marked employees only my C told me something was wrong he kept talking about random topics almost as if he was trying to distract me his questions grew more personal asking about where I was headed and if I was traveling alone I

tried to steer the conversation back to business but he didn't seem to get the hint when I finally paid and headed for the door he followed me outside he stood close making casual small talk but his demeanor was unnerving I tried to brush him off but he kept lingering I finished pumping my gas and that's when I noticed something odd the door to the back room of the store was slightly a jar from Where I Stood I could see a large black duffel bag in plain view it was too big to be a regular piece

of luggage I told myself I was overreacting but I couldn't shake the feeling of dread as I started to drive away I saw the clerk watching me from the window his gaze was unsettling almost like he was assessing me I Trove for a few miles trying to calm my nerves I kept glancing in my rear view mirror half expecting to see a car following me I turned on my radio to distract myself but I couldn't stop thinking about the clerk and the duffel bag I decided to take a different route home avoiding any main roads

I drove through winding back roads hoping to shake off any potential followers My Heart raced with every turn and I couldn't help but feel paranoid after what felt like an eternity I reached a wallet Diner I parked my car and went inside to regroup I ordered coffee and tried to steady my nerves I was still on edge feeling like someone might be watching me while I sat there I decided to call the local police I gave them a brief description of the fuel station and the clerk's Behavior I mentioned the duffel bag in my concern

they seem to take my call seriously and promise to look into it I st stayed at the diner for a while longer waiting to feel safe before heading home as the sun started to rise I finally felt like it was okay to leave I took the long way home making sure no one was tailing me when I got home I was exhausted and still shaken I watched the news the next morning and saw a brief report about a local police investigation into a suspicious fuel station they didn't give many details but it was enough to

make me feel a bit better the incident left me anxious for a while last weekend Chris and I decided to get away from the city and rented a small vacation Cabin in the Woods it was supposed to be a relaxing time the cabin was quaint nestled in a quiet area far from the nearest town we were looking forward to a peaceful few days we arrived late on Friday evening just as the sun was setting the cabin was just as Charming as the photos had promised we settled in made dinner and then decided to turn in

early the Solitude was exactly what we needed around midnight I was just starting to drift off when I heard a faint noise it was a sort of scratch ing sound followed by what seemed like faint footsteps I assumed it was an animal and tried to ignore it but it wouldn't stop Chris was already asleep so I decided to check it out myself I tiptoed through the darken cabin trying to pinpoint the noise it sounded like it was coming from the front door I carefully peaked out the living room window but saw nothing out of the

ordinary the scratching sound had stopped so I went back to bed trying to shake off the feeling of unease I just couldn't get comfortable though every little noise seemed Amplified in the Silence of the night a few hours later I was jolted awake by a louder more insistent noise it was definitely coming from the front of the cabin I gently shook Chris awake Chris wake up I think someone's trying to get in he cwed and rubbed his eyes what are you sure pretty sure I said trying to keep my voice steady we both got up

and crept to the living room the scratching had stopped but now we could hear faint clanging noises like metal against metal Chris peeed through the peephole in the door but saw nothing he turned to me looking worried should we call the police before we could decide the clanging noise started again Chris picked up his phone to dial 911 but before he could get through the noise stopped abruptly the silence was even more unnerving we waited a few minutes listening for any sounds suddenly there was a loud click the front door was unlocked someone had a

key Panic set in as we realized the Intruder was already inside Chris and I moved quickly we quietly locked all the doors and windows and pulled the curtain Shut I tried to stay calm but my hands were shaking we needed to figure out a plan to get help without drawing attention Chris suggested we try to leave through a window we quietly opened one in the bedroom and peered outside the area was dark but we didn't see anyone the thought of sneaking out made me nervous but it seemed like our best option as we were about

to climb out we heard Footsteps in the hallway someone was moving around the cabin I pulled Chris back inside and we retreated to the back room which had a small window facing the woods I whispered we need to stay quiet maybe we can find a way to get the police here without them noticing Chris nodded and we huddled by the window he sent a text to 911 explaining our situ situation and location we hoped they would receive it and send help quickly the footsteps grew louder and closer we could hear muffled voices now it sounded

like more than one person the tension was unbearable as we tried to stay as silent as possible the door to the back room creeped open my heart raced Chris and I held our breath trying to remain still I peaked around the corner and saw a shadow move past the door whoever was in the cabin was searching for us we waited barely moving as the footsteps continued it felt like hours though it was probably only minutes The Intruders seemed to be getting further away I helped that meant they were leaving just then we heard the distant

sound of sirens relief wased over me I helped the police had arrived before The Intruders found us we listened carefully and the footsteps grew quieter after what felt like an eternity we heard the police knocking on the front door Chris and I exchanged glances it was time to make ourselves known we cautiously moved toward the front of the cabin and opened the door the police were there and they quickly assessed the situation they searched the cabin and found no one inside the officers took our statements and assured us they would investigate the incident we were

finally able to relax the police said they would Patrol the area and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity they also advised us to stay alert and secure the cabin if we decided to stay we decided to cut our trip short and head back home I was working late at the office last Tuesday trying to finish up a report that was due the next morning the place was quiet the only sound was the AL of the air conditioner and the occasional clack of my keyboard I had been alone for hours when I heard a

knock at the office door it was strange because I wasn't expecting anyone I went to the door and saw a maintenance t technician standing outside he was in uniform but he didn't have a company name on his clothes which struck me as odd he said he needed to do some work on the building's air conditioning system I was a little worried since it was late but I figured maybe the work was urgent I let him in and showed him to the utility room where the air conditioning unit was he seemed a bit too eager to

get started he was fidgety and kept glancing around I Shrugged it off at first thinking he was just anxious about the job I went back to my desk to finish my work every now and then I hear noises from the utility room like banging and scraping I couldn't see him from my desk but I could hear him moving around it was unsettling but I tried to ignore it and focus on my report after about 30 minutes I noticed the noise had stopped I went to check on him and found him standing by the utility room

door looking like he was just waiting his behavior was strange he wasn't working on the equipment and he wasn't using any tools he just stood there His Hands by his sides everything okay I asked just making sure everything is running smoothly he replied but his voice sounded odd there was something off about the way he looked at me like like he was sizing me up I tried to get back to work but I couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong the technician's behavior was starting to creep me out I went to the utility room

again to see what he was doing he was fiddling with the air conditioning unit but it didn't look like he was making any progress do you need any help I asked trying to sound casual no no just fine he he said quickly he gave me a forc smile that didn't reach his eyes I went back to my desk but now I was feeling genuinely uneasy I tried to call the building manager to ask if there was any scheduled maintenance but the call went straight to voicemail I decided to keep an eye on the technician through

the glass window and the door as the minutes went by his behavior became even more unsettling he kept walking to the door and looking on into the hallway like he was expecting someone he would then turn back to the unit and pretend to work I started to get really nervous I didn't want to confront him directly but I also didn't want to be along with him in case something was wrong I decided to try calling 911 but I couldn't do it openly I waited until the technician was back at the unit and used my phone

discreetly to dial the dispatcher answered and I tried to explain the situation without being too obvious I told them I was alone with an unknown maintenance worker who was acting strangely the technician suddenly came into the office startling me he asked if I had a problem with the air conditioning but I could tell he was trying to see if I was talking to someone I told him everything was fine and then I was waiting for the building manager to call me back he seemed to accept this and went back to the utility room I watched

him through the glass again and that's when I noticed he had removed the cover of the unit it wasn't clear what he was doing but it looked suspicious I was afraid he might be tampering with something I kept waiting for the police to arrive trying to stay calm and not Mak any sudden movements the technicians seemed to become more agitated As Time passed he would occasionally glance at the door and then back to the unit as if he was growing more impatient finally I heard sirens outside the technician must have heard them too because he

suddenly became very tense he quickly tried to gather his tools and pack up I didn't wait for him to leave I ran to the front door and unlocked it hoping the police would get here quickly when the police arrived they went straight to the utility room I stayed with them explaining what had happened they found the technician in the act of trying to disable the air conditioning unit but he had stopped as soon as he saw the officers the police arrested him and began questioning him about what he was doing they also checked the security

footage which showed the technician entering the building without any valid reason or authorization it turned out he had no affiliation with any maintenance company he was simply a fraud who had targeted the building the officers assured me that they had everything under control they checked the office thoroughly to make sure nothing had been tampered with and took my statement I was shaken but relieved that the situation had been resolved without any harm coming to me after everything was settled I decided to leave the office and head home the thought of being alone there with someone

who had such dangerous intentions made me feel uneasy I was alone at the warehouse for my usual night shift it was a big empty place and the silence was sometimes a bit Eerie i' gotten used to working alone at night but things started to get weird a few nights ago a new security guard was assigned to patrol the area and his behavior made me really uncomfortable at first he seemed okay just doing his rounds like any other guard but soon enough I noticed something off about him he would come by my area more often than

necessary and linger a bit too long it felt like he was staring at me more than checking the premises I tried to Shake it Off telling myself he was just doing his job but then things got worse one night he walked in while I was working he started asking personal questions about where I lived and what I did on my days off it felt like he was prying into my private life his questions seemed innocent enough but the way he asked them made me uneasy I was polite but fake in my answers hoping he'd get

the hint instead he started showing up even more frequently it was almost like he was trying to keep tabs on me one evening I caught him using his phone while walking around I noticed was pointing it towards my workspace at first I thought he might be taking pictures of the warehouse for security purposes but it still didn't sit right with me I decided to keep an eye on him and see if he was up to something more suspicious later that night I went to the restroom and saw him standing outside acting like he was on

the phone when I came out he quickly hung up and walked away I couldn't shake the feeling that he was trying to hide something I needed to find out what he was up to I started doing some investigating I looked around my workspace for any signs of tampering or hidden cameras I found nothing at first but I couldn't stop feeling like I was being watched I decided to check the security room where he tapped his gear I knew it was a risk but I had to do something I managed to slip into the security room

when he was out of sight the room was filled with monitors and recording equipment I didn't touch anything but looked around for any signs of hidden cameras I found a few devices hidden in plain sight disguised as everyday items they were definitely not part of Standard Security equipment the more I looked the more I found I realized he was spying on me through these hidden cameras it was clear he was using them to watch Me While I worked alone I felt a surge of panic but tried to stay calm I needed to come up with

a plan to deal with this I decided to go back to my workstation and act like everything was normal I took a deep breath and focused on my tasks while thinking about what to do next I knew I had to protect myself but didn't want to alert him that I knew what he was doing I thought about calling the police but decided to wait until I had more evidence I wasn't sure how he would react if he realized I was onto him I needed to find a way to secure the evidence and get him caught

without putting myself in immediate danger I noticed he was getting more aggressive with his patrols he was coming by my area more frequently and seemed more interested in what I was doing it was clear he was getting more bold I knew I had to act quickly I decided to plant a fake Tamar in a visible spot hoping it would make him think I was aware of his surveillance and that I had evidence I took an old security camera I had from home set it up where it was visible and pretended to adjust it like I

was monitoring him when he saw the camera he looked surprised but didn't say anything he started acting even more strangely trying to avoid coming too close to me it was like he was scared of being caught I used this opportunity to gather more evidence I managed to take pictures of the hidden cameras and the surveillance equipment in the security room once I had enough proof I finally called the police I explained everything including the security guard's Behavior and the hidden cameras the police arrived and went through the security room they found the hidden cameras and

took them as evidence they also questioned a security guard who tried to act Innocent but quickly Broke Down Under Pressure he was arrested for for illegal surveillance and invasion of privacy I was relieved but still shaken the police assured me that they had everything under control and now I was safe I recently checked into an old dilapidated hotel for a review I was excited to see what I'd find since it had a lot of history and was known for being one of the oldest in the area the hotel was everything you'd expect from a place

stuck in time cabi had a musty smell and the walls were peeling it felt like stepping back into the 1950s when I arrived the place seemed empty the receptionist an older woman with a stern look greeted me with a cold nod she handed me the key without saying much I didn't think much of it some places are just like that I figured my room was on the top floor at the end of a long narrow hallway the carpet was threadbear and the lights flickered I found my room and was struck by how dated it looked

the furniture was old and the bed had a lumpy mattress still I had work to do so I settled in and started my review notes later that evening I decided decided to explore the hotel a bit the more I walked around the stranger things felt the always seemed to stretch longer than they should and I started to notice the occasional odd sound creaks and Whispers that didn't seem to have a clear Source while walking through one of the back hallways I saw a door slightly ajar I could hear muffled voices coming from inside curiosity got

the better of me so I peaked in there was no one in sight but the room looked like an old storage closet filled with Dusty furniture and boxes the next day things got even weirder I tried to have breakfast in the hotel's dining area the staff including a young man who seemed particularly unfriendly moved around without speaking much they would glance at me from time to time but whenever I tried to make a contact they looked away quickly I asked the young man about the history of the hotel hoping to get some background for my

review his response was Curt and evasive he said the hotel had been in the family for Generations but didn't offer any details that night I started hearing noises again this time there were louder thumping sounds and what seemed like footsteps coming from the floor above me I decided to investigate but couldn't find anything unusual the next morning I tried to check out early but the receptionist was was nowhere to be found I waited for hours but no one showed up the young man from the dining area finally appeared looking agitated he said the receptionist had

stepped out and would be back later I decided to kill time by exploring the hotel's basement which I hadn't seen yet the basement was cold and damp there were old maintenance tools and piles of junk as I looked around I noticed a small hidden door behind some boxes I managed to pry the door open and found a narrow stairway leading down to another level the air was thick and musty and I could barely see anything in the dim light of my flashlight I went down the stairs cautiously at the bottom I discovered a series of

small locked rooms I could hear faint cries and shuffling noises coming from inside my heart pounded as I tried to open one of the doors to my horror I found one room with chains and old restraints attached to the walls I quickly backed away feeling A Rush of panic I needed to get out of there but the stairway seemed to close in on me as I hurri back up when I reached the basement I saw the young man standing at the top of the stairs his face was expressionless he asked me what I was doing

down there and his tone was menacing I told him I'd been exploring and was heading out he didn't say anything but watch me closely as I made my way back to the main floor as I approached the lobby the receptionist finally appeared looking annoyed I tried to explain what I'd seen and wanted to leave immediately she said there was no need to be alarmed and that the rooms were part of the hotel's old storage areas she promised they were no longer in use I wasn't convinced and pressed for more information but she just gave me

a blank stare I decided to leave as quickly as I could I packed my things and checked out feeling like I was being watched the whole time as I drove away from the hotel I couldn't shake the feeling that something terrible had happened there I reported what I'd seen to the authorities but without concrete evidence there wasn't much they could do the hotel was soon closed for renovations and I never went back to this day I wonder what really happened in that basement and why the staff was so secretive I stayed late in the University

lap that night trying to finish up some research I have been working on for weeks it was quiet and the only sound was the soft hum of the equipment I was so focused I didn't notice the time passing by around midnight I heard the door Creak open I looked up to see someone standing in the doorway it was Jason a fellow student from one of my classes I barely knew him but I had seen him around campus hey Mia he said casually walking in working late huh I nodded trying to be polite but not really

in the mood for a chat yeah just trying to get this done Jason didn't leave instead he moved closer and started looking over my shoulder at the data on my screen I felt uncomfortable with how close he was what are you working on he asked I tried to explain briefly focusing on the research rather than the specifics I didn't want to reveal too much Jason kept asking detailed questions almost pushing me to explain every step his questions started feeling invasive and his manner was strangely intense he seemed genuinely interested but something about the way he

was probing made me uneasy I gave short answers and tried to redirect the conversation but he wouldn't let up his eyes were focused on my screen and he occasionally glanced at the stack of papers on my desk as I answered another one of his questions I noticed he was no longer just curious his questions had shifted to more personal aspects of my research and the methods I used it felt like he was trying to dig into areas that were confidential have you had any problems with your experiments he asked his tone growing more insistent any

unexpected results I sensed something was off I had always been cautious about sharing detailed information about my work especially since some of it was sensitive nothing out of the ordinary I said trying to sound nonchalant why' you ask Jason didn't answer right away instead he looked around the labp as if checking to see if anyone was nearby I've heard some things about your project he said finally his voice dropping to a whisper I just want to make sure you're not missing anything his demeanor made me more nervous I could tell he was not just a

curious student there was something more to his interest I felt a growing sense of dread I needed to protect my research and more importantly keep myself safe I decided to act as though I was still engaged in the conversation but looked for an opportunity to get him out of the lab actually I think I need to finish this up can we talk another time I said hoping he would take the hint Jason didn't seem to take the hint instead he sat down at one of the chairs and continued to ask questions now about the security

of my data how do you keep your files secure he asked leaning closer do you have backups I was becoming increasingly uncomfortable I have standard procedures for data security I replied trying to sound firm I really need to get this done now can you please leave he didn't move instead he looked at me with a strange expression almost as if he was assessing whether or not I was lying I could see the wheels turning in his mind and it made me shiver realizing that staying there any longer would only make things worse I decided to

take action I reached for my phone and pretended to make a call I said into the phone hi yes this is Mia I need some help in the lab Jason's eyes widened slightly he stood up abruptly okay I'll leave you to it he said his voice now strained he quickly walked toward the door but not before giving me one last look it was clear he wasn't finished with me but I needed him out of the lab as soon as he was gone I locked the door behind him and checked my research materials everything seemed to

be in place but I wasn't taking any chances I backed up my data and made sure my files were secured I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched I stayed in the lab for a bit longer making sure that no one else would come in I was on high alert knowing that Jason's Behavior could mean trouble the next day I reported the incident to the camp of security and my supervisor they took the matter seriously and assured me they would look into it I also made sure to change any passwords and security codes related to

my research Jason didn't show up in any of my classes after that and I didn't hear from him again the whole experience left me shaken but I was relieved that I had managed to protect my work and myself I was more cautious from then on always being careful about who I spoke to about my research it was a lesson and learned the hard way about how important it is to stay vigilant especially when dealing with people who seem too interested in what you're doing I never thought much of it when the first gift appeared on

my doorstep it was a small unmarked box with a simple ribbon in inside was a pretty necklace nothing expensive but definitely not something I would have bought for myself at first I thought it was a mistake or maybe a gift from a friend when I received another gift the next week I started to get a little uneasy this time it was a bouquet of flowers with a note that just said thinking of you no name no indication of who sent it I didn't recognize the handwriting I didn't have a clue who it could be I

tried to brush it off thinking it was some kind of prank but then the gifts kept coming one day it was a box of chocolates the next it was a framed photo of a Scenic Place I had never visited each time there was a note with a simple message like hope you enjoy this or have a nice day I started to feel uncomfortable the notes were getting more personal mentioning things about my family and how they HED we were all well well I hadn't told anyone about these gifts I didn't want to alarm anyone without

knowing who's behind this one evening as I was taking out the trash I noticed someone standing across the street they were far enough away that I couldn't see their face clearly but I could tell they were watching me I felt a chill run down my spine I didn't recognize the person and they quickly turned and walked away when I looked directly at them my anxiety only grew after that the gifts kept coming and they seemed to be following a pattern I decided to speak to my husband about it he was concerned and suggested that we

should contact the police I agreed but I wanted to wait and see if things escalated further then came the day when things took a darker turn I found a package that was wrapped in brown paper with a note that read I know where you live inside was a photo of our house taken from the street it wasn't a particularly good photo but it was clear enough to show that the person had been close to our home that evening I saw the same figure standing across the street again this time I made sure to get a

better look it was a man wearing a dark hoodie he was clearly watching us I told my husband and he immediately decided to call the police we were advised to document everything and be vigilant the next few days were filled with tension we had to be extra careful about our routines we kept our doors locked and made sure all our windows were secure despite this the gifts kept arriving and the notes continued to be unsettling they started mentioning our children's names and what their school schedules were one night after we had gone to bed we

heard a noise outside my husband went to check and he saw the same man lurking by our driveway the man quickly ran off when he saw my husband approaching we called the police again and they promised to send someone out to investigate the next morning I found another Tift on our doorstep it was a small stuffed toy the same kind that my daughter had lost weeks ago the note said I know what you're missing that was the the last straw I was terrified for my family's safety I decided to take matters into my own hands

I set up a camera near our front door to capture any activity I also started to keep a journal of every incident and note I made sure to share all this information with the police and kept them updated one evening while reviewing the footage from the camera I saw the man clearly he was wearing the same dark hoodie and he lingered around our house for several minutes before leaving a package I immediately showed the footage to the police they identify him as someone with a history of harassment and stalking the police managed to track him

down and arrest him it turned out that he had been watching her house for weeks and had targeted us specifically he had been using the gifs and notes as a way to gauge our reactions and get closer after his arrest the gifts and notes stopped we were finally able to return to a sense of normaly it was supposed to be a relaxing weekend in the woods Emily and I had picked a nice spot by a lake for our camping trip we had just finished setting up our tent and we're getting ready to make dinner when

we first heard the noises at first we thought it was just a raccoon luming through our supplies it was the kind of sound you hear when something small is shuffling around as dusk turned to dark the noises started to get louder it wasn't just shuffling anymore it sounded like something or someone was moving around our campsite Emily and I exchanged worried looks we had heard stories of wildlife getting too close but this sounded different I told Emily to stay inside the tent while I went outside to check things out I crapped a flashlight and my

pocket knife thinking it would be enough to deal with a raccoon as I stepped out I scanned the area the light from the flashlight cut through the darkness but I didn't see anything unusual I walked around the perimeter of our sight trying to be as quiet as possible the noises had stopped which made me even more uneasy I decided to check the area where we heard the most noise as I approached the tree line I heard Whispering it was hard to make out the words but I could tell there were at least two people talking

I crouched down and tried to stay hidden behind some bushes from where I was I could see faint outlines of figures moving around it was clear now that these were not animals these were people my heart became race I couldn't make out their faces but they were definitely not supposed to be here I quickly made my way back to the tent I told Emily what I had seen and heard she was visibly shaken we both knew we needed to act fast I asked her to stay quiet while I went to see if I could get

a better look at what was happening as I approached the edge of the campsite again I saw one of the figures heading towards our cooler the person was carrying something maybe a bag or a large object I couldn't see much in the dark but I could hear the rustling of Our Food Supplies I decided to make a distraction I threw a small rock towards the direction where I had seen the figures the noise caused them to pause and look around I used this opportunity to sneak back to the tent Emily and I discussed what to

do next we agreed that we needed needed to secure our belongings and find a way to alert the authorities without getting caught I grabbed our phone and dialed 911 but the signal was weak I could barely make out the operator's voice and she couldn't hear me clearly I ended the call and told Emily we needed to leave we would have to abandon our gear but our safety was the priority we decided to sneak out through the back of the campsite we had to be very careful not to make any noise I led Emily through the

trees trying to remember the path back to the parking area every small sound made me jump I kept thinking about how close The Intruders were and how dangerous this situation could be after what felt like an eternity we reached the parking area I quickly started the car and drove away from the campsite I kept checking the rearview mirror expecting to see headlights following us thankfully there was no sign of anyone behind us once we were back on the main road we found a spot with better cell service and called 911 again this time the operator

could hear us clearly we explained the situation in where we had been camping the police promised to send someone out to check on the site we spent the rest of the night in a nearby Motel still shaken by what had happened the next day the police contact contacted us to let us know that they had investigated the campsite they found evidence of The Intruders but they were long gone by the time they arrived we were told that The Intruders might have been local troublemakers but there was no way to be sure the police assured us

that they would increase Patrols in the area I never imagined our camping trip would turn out like this we were relieved to be safe but the experience left us both on edge we decided to stick to well populated campsites from then on the sense of vulnerability we felt at night was something I never want to experience again I had been driving for hours heading through the desert on a lonely Highway it was supposed to be a straightforward trip the Sun was setting casting Long Shadows across the road I was tired but eager to reach my

destination that's when I saw it a sudden roadblock up ahead a group of men Stood Beside an old truck blocking the road at first I thought they might be having car trouble as I slowed down one of them waved me over I hesitated but decided to stop after all it's not uncommon to help someone in need especially in such a desolate place I rolled down my window and asked if everything was all right the man who had waved was dressed in worn out clothes and had a Gruff look he said they were stranded and needed

a ride to the nearest town I noticed their truck was in rough shape but it didn't seem like it would take much to fix it they said the truck had broken down and they were waiting for a toe but their phone was dead they looked genuinely distressed one of them even mentioned that they had been out here for hours and that it was getting dark against my better judgment I agreed to help I got out of my car and approached them they seemed relieved and immediately started talking about how thankful they were one of them

who introduced himself as Jack began explaining their situation it seemed a bit off but I tried to ignore the feeling in my gut as I was helping them I noticed the other men were acting strangely they kept glancing at each other and not making much of contact with me I started to feel uneasy they were friendly but something about their demeanor made me worry I offered to let them use my phone to call for help they seemed hesitant but eventually Jack took it and walked a short distance away to make the call I watched him

from a distance trying to catch Snippets of what he was saying it sounded like he was talking to someone about their plan when Jack returned he said the call didn't go through and that they needed to wait a bit longer for help I suggested we move to a safer spot away from the road the sun was almost down and the desert was becoming cold and dark they agreed and we started walking towards my car but as I got closer I noticed the men were now surrounding me their attitude had changed from thankful to something more

Sinister they began asking more personal questions about where I was going and why I was alone the realization hid me like a cult wave they weren't stranded they were trying to trap me my heart raced as I tried to think of an escape plan I subtly checked the area for any signs of Escape Routes or nearby help but the desert was fast and empty Jack suddenly mentioned that they needed to go back to the truck for something my Instinct screamed at me to get away I politely declined and said I had to leave the men's

Expressions hardened I knew then that they had no intention of letting me go one of them a tall man with a menacing glare moved closer and blocked my path I could feel my breath Quicken I looked around for anything that could help me the men were closing in and I had to act fast I made a Split Second in decision to run I bolted towards my car trying to ignore the shouting behind me I fumbled with my keys my hand shaking as I tried to unlock the door I could hear the men lining after me

their footsteps growing louder I finally managed to get into the car and slam the door shut I started the engine with a Roar and quickly put the car in reverse the men were now outside yelling and trying to get into the car I could see their faces through the rearview mirror their expressions Twisted with anger I sped down the road now looking back the adrenaline was pumping through my veins I kept my foot on the gas pushing my car as fast as it would go I drove for miles before I felt it was safe to

slow down my heart was still racing but I was finally away from the roadblock after I reached a safer area with more traffic I pulled over and called the police I reported what had happened giving them as many details as I could they assured me they would send a patrol to the area the rest of the trip was uneventful but I couldn't shake the feeling of dread from that encounter I realized how quickly a seemingly harmless situation could turn dangerous the desert was no longer just a place for me to travel through it was a

reminder of how vulnerable I had been I made a promise to myself to always trust my instincts no matter how polite or convincing someone might seem the evening had started like any other my parents had gone out for the night leaving me home alone I was excited about having the house to myself planning to enjoy a quiet evening I had just settled on the couch with my book when I heard a knock at the door I glanced at the clock it was a little after 7 and it was already dark outside I wasn't expecting anyone

but I figured it might be a neighbor or a delivery I walked to the door and Peak through the peep Hall it was Mr Johnson our neighbor from two houses down I hesitated I I remembered my parents mentioning that Mr Johnson was supposed to be on vacation this week I wondered why he was here I opened the door a crack and Mr Johnson started speaking in a hurry tone there's been a gas leak in the neighborhood he said urgently you need to leave the house immediately it's not safe I was taken aback it didn't make

sense I had not heard anything about a gas Leep from my parents were any news reports I told Mr Johnson I would need to call my parents first he insisted it was not safe to waste time his insistence made me uncomfortable I remembered that Mr Johnson had been talking about leaving town and that he should have been away his tone was too urgent almost frantic I decided to shut the door and lock it as I did I heard him try to push against it I quickly backed away from the door and grabbed my phone I

dialed 911 and explained the situation telling them about the supposed gas leak and the fact that Mr Johnson was not supposed to be in town the operator assured me that help would be on the way I moved quietly to the living room trying to stay calm I peeed through the blinds and saw Mr Johnson still standing by the door looking around his behavior was erratic and he seemed more agitated with every passing minute he knocked again more forcefully this time let me and Emily it's not safe you need to leave now he shouted I could

hear the desperation in his voice which only made me more sure that something was off I searched for something I could use to barricade the door I found a heavy bookshelf and pushed it against the door hoping it would buy me me some time I turned off the lights and moved silently to the kitchen where I could see the front door through a small window Mr Johnson was now pacing outside glancing around nervously I watched him through the window my heart pounding in my chest his movements became more erratic and I could see him trying

to find a way inside he tried to door handle again but it was locked minutes felt like hours I kept checking my phone waiting for the police to arrive I heard Mr Johnson making strange noises like he was talking to himself or someone else it was unsettling he started trying to break a window at the side of the house I knew I had to stay hidden I went to the basement the only place I could think of where he wouldn't immediately look I crapped a flashlight and huddled in a corner trying to control my breathing

from the basement I could hear Mr Johnson moving around the house trying to find another way in I could hear him banging on the walls and yelling it was clear he was getting more desperate I stayed as quiet as possible praying that the police were arrive soon every Creek or bump upstairs made my heart race I thought about what might happen if he managed to get in eventually I heard sirens in the distance relief washed over me but I stayed hidden until I heard the police knocking on the door they announced themselves and I finally

made my way back upstairs I opened the door for them they quickly entered the house searching for Mr Johnson they found him trying to force open a window in the back he was immediately apprehended and taken away the police talked to me for a while asking questions and making sure I was okay they assured ured me that I did the right thing by not opening the door and calling them right away after everything calmed down they explained that Mr Johnson had been reported missing and was suspected of being involved in several incidents in the area

it turned out he had been trying to Target other homes and I had narrowly avoided a dangerous situation the house was safe again and I felt a wave of exhaustion I locked all the doors and made sure everything was Secure I stayed up late waiting for my parents to come home and telling them everything that happened we had been looking forward to this camping trip for months Jake and I had planned it meticulously hoping for a relaxing weekend in the Ozark National Forest the first night was perfect the weather was mild and the Stars Shone

brightly above our campsite we roasted marshmallows and enjoyed the Peace of the forest feeling completely At Ease on the second night things took a turn we had just finished dinner and were sitting by the fire when we heard voices approaching I assumed it was other campers but Jake went to check just in case what we didn't expect was a group of locals stumbling into our campsite at first they seemed friendly enough they introduced themselves and asked if they could join us by the fire we were happy to share our space and offer them some snacks

and drinks they were chatty and curious about us asking where we were from and what brought us to the area we mentioned that we were from out of state and were here to explore the Ozarks that's when their demeanor started to shift their smiles faded slightly and they exchanged glances that made me uncomfortable one of the men who had been particularly friendly earlier suddenly became more Stern he asked us more pointed questions about our plans and how long we would be staying Jake and I tried to answer calmly I could sense a change in the

air the atmosphere grew tense and I started to feel uneasy the crew grew quiet and I noticed they were no longer sitting comfortably around the fire instead they were standing and moving closer to us one of the women in the group muttered something I couldn't quite catch but it sounded hostile Jake's body language shifted as well and he suddenly moved closer to me we should probably head to bed Jake said trying to sound casual he gave me a reassuring look and stood up signaling that we should pack up I nodded but my heart was racing

I could tell that something was wrong before we could react one of the men spoke up his voice cold you're not from around here are you Jake tried to explain that we were just tourists and had no intention of causing any trouble but the locals didn't seem convinced their faces hardened and one of them started to approach us with a menacing look Jake and I exchanged worried glances it was clear that this situation was escalating and we needed to get out of there we started Gathering our things as quickly as we could but the locals

weren't backing off suddenly one of the men grabbed a nearby branch and swung it in our Direction the aggressive move caught us off guard Jake shouted at me to run and I didn't hesitate we crapped our Essentials and fled Into the Dark Forest leaving the campsite behind the forest was Pitch Black and the only light came from the distant moon in our flashlights we ran as fast as we could trying to navigate the rough terrain branches and underbrush scratched at our legs and the sound of our pursuers grew louder behind us I could hear them

shouting and cursing their footsteps crunching through the leaves it was terrifying not knowing how close they were or what they intended to do Jake kept a tight grip on my hand leading me through the forest we tried to stay as quiet as possible hoping to put some distance between us and the group we stumbled through the woods trying to find any sign of a trail or a way to escape every now and then we would hear a crack or snap of a tweet that made us freeze in fear we were both out of breath and

exhausted but we knew we had to keep moving after what felt like hours of running we found a small cave it wasn't much but it was a place to hide we crawled inside and tried to catch our breath the sound of our pursuers was distant now but we knew they could still be out there looking for us we stayed in the cave keeping as quiet as possible I could hear Jake's rapid breathing next to me and I tried to steady my own we used our phones to check for Signal hoping to call for help but

there was no reception in the area time seemed to drag on we occasionally heard noises outside but not nothing close after a few hours the sounds of our pursuers faded completely Jake and I were both shivering from the cold and fear once we felt it was safe we cautiously left the cave and made our way back to where we thought the campsite had been we were relieved to see that the group of locals had left our campsite was a mess but our tear was still there we packed up quickly and decided to leave the forest

we drove back to civilization relieved to be out of danger once we were in a safe area with a cell signal we called the local authorities and reported the incident they assured us they would look into it but we didn't want to stick around to see what happened next The Experience left us shaken but we were grateful that we managed to escape unarmed we talked about what happened and I couldn't shake the fear from my mind we both agreed that we would never go camping in that area again even now thinking back on that night

gives me chills I was working late in my downtown Chicago apartment trying to finish up some reports the city outside was quiet and I was focused on my screen scream around midnight I heard a faint scratching noise coming from near my front door I paused listening carefully but couldn't hear anything else I figured it was just the wind or maybe a stray cat I tried to push it out of my mind and went back to work a few minutes later I heard a louder noise it was unmistakably the sound of my door being forced open

my heart raced as I realized someone was breaking looking in I crapped my laptop and shut it down the soft hum of the computer stopping abruptly I turned off all the lights plunging the apartment Into Darkness I rushed to my bedroom and quickly hid in the closet my breathing was heavy and I had to force myself to stay quiet I could hear footsteps moving around the apartment getting ludder as they approached the sound of furniture being knocked over and drawers being pulled open filled the space the closet door had slats that leted me see out

into the room but I had to stay perfectly still I watched as two men came into view they were wearing masks so I couldn't see their faces they moved with purpose tossing aside books and rling through drawers I could hear their low Gruff voices as they talked to each other discussing what they were looking for my phone was on the coffee table in the living room just a few feet away from where the men were searching I needed to find a way to call for help but I couldn't risk making any noise I felt a

wave of panic as I considered my options if I tried to sneak out they might hear me and catch me in the ACT my mind raised trying to come up with a plan one of The Intruders walked over to the coffee table and picked up my phone my heart sank as I realized he was holding it examining it I could see the screen lighting up briefly probably because of a notification he put it back down and I let out a quiet sigh of relief but my situation was still dire the men continued to search the

apartment and their conversation became more heated they were clearly frustrated that they couldn't find what they were looking for I overheard them mention something about a safe and how they had been told it was here I didn't have a safe but it was clear they were convinced they had the right place I knew I had to act quickly I reached into the closet and found a small box of old office supplies I took a deep breath and decided to use one of the pens from the box I quietly unscrewed the pen and took out the

spring inside using the spring and a piece of string from the box I tried to make a makeshift signal it wasn't much but if I could throw it close enough enough to the phone maybe I could use the vibration to attract attention I carefully and quietly threw the spring and string towards the living room it landed with a soft dot on the carpet I held my breath hoping it would make enough noise to alert The Intruders but not so much that it would make them suspicious the men were still arguing about the safe and I

heard one of them curse loudly in frustration after a tense few minutes one of the men noticed a string in picked it up I watched as he examined it clearly puzzled he seemed to lose interest quickly and tossed it aside I was back to square one but I couldn't give up I needed to find another way I noticed that the men were starting to get more desperate their search was becoming more frantic and they were now overturning Furniture I decided to try another tactic I slowly moved to the edge of the closet and looked for

something I could use as a distraction I spotted an old alarm clock on the shelf above me I crabbed the alarm clock and with great tear set the time to ring in a few minutes I then placed it on the edge of the closet or it would fall out if I nudged it I slowly moved it just enough so that when the clock went off it would make a noise and hopefully draw the men's attention the minut ticked by slowly my hands were clammy and my heart felt like it was going to burst from my

chest when the alarm clock finally went off it made a loud ringing noise The Intruders stopped their search and turned towards the sound I could see them moving quickly to the source of the noise I took the opportunity to slowly and quietly crawl out of the closet my heart was pounding as I tried to stay as silent as possible I moved towards the coffee table hoping the men would be too distracted by the noise to notice me I reached for my phone but my fingers fumbled and it almost slipped off the table I crapped it

just in time and dialed 911 I kept my voice low whispering to the operator about the situation in my location the operator assured me that help was on the way but it could take a few minutes I ended the call and tried to remain as quiet as possible the men were still searching the apartment but their movements were now more hurried I knew I had to stay hidden until the police arrived I crawled behind the couch and held my breath listening to the chaos around me minutes felt like hours the sounds of the men's footsteps

grew more distant and I could hear sirens approaching in the distance The Intruders finally started to leave the apartment their voices fading away I waited until the apartment was silent again before cautiously emerging ing from my hiding spot I saw the flashing lights of police cars outside the window I knew help had arrived I opened the door and quickly let the officers in they went through the apartment checking for any remaining Intruders and assessing the damage they assured me that it was safe to come out now and started taking statements I was shaken but relieved

the officers were thorough and checked the apartment for any signs of further tampering they were able to catch up with The Intruders later thanks to the quick response to my call that night was one of the scariest experiences of my life I had never imagined that a simple noise could lead to such a dangerous situation I had been hiking all day and and the rain started coming down hard as evening approached I was in the middle of the woods Far From Any town or Road the trail was muddy and I was soaked I needed to

find shelter quickly that's when I saw the cabin through the trees it looked old and abandoned but it was better than being out in the storm I pushed through the wet underbrush and reached the cabin the door was slightly a jar creaking as I pushed it open inside it was dark and smelled musty I shook off the rain and stepped in hoping to find a dry spot to rest I found an old chair and a table some broken shelves and a small fireplace there were no lights but I had a flashlight in my pack I

set my things down and explored a bit the cabin was just one room with a couple of small Windows the rain pounded on the roof and the wind held outside I felt a bit uneasy but it was better than being out in the storm I decided to make a small fire to warm up and dry off as I was gathering some oldwood from a pile in the corner I noticed something odd there were fresh food wrappers and an empty water bottle under the table it looked like someone had been here recently my heartart started to

race what if they came back I tried to calm myself myself thinking it could have been a hiker like me seeking Shelter From the rain I lit the fire and warmed my hands the small flickering Flames cast Shadows on the walls making the cabin feel even more eerie I decided to stay close to the door just in case the rain showed no signs of letting up and it was getting darker I sat in the chair trying to relax but every Creek and grown of the cabin made me jump a loud noise from outside made me

freeze I turned off my flashlight and listened footsteps someone was coming Panic set in I looked around for a place to hide there was a small closet near the back wall I cracked my things and slipped inside closing the door as quietly as I could I could hear voices now muffled by the rain two men talking and laughing the door creeped open and I held my breath they stomped inside shaking off the rain I peeed through a crack in the closet door and saw them clearly they were big roughl looking men and They Carried guns

they started talking about a deal something about money in a meeting place my heart pounded in my chest these weren't just hikers they were criminals I was trapped in their Hideout and they had no idea I was there I needed to get out but how one of the men walked over to the fireplace noticing the warm Embers someone's been here he said his voice Gruff my stomach dropped they knew I tried to stay as still and quiet as possible but my mind was racing what would they do if they found me the other man cursed

and started looking around I could hear them opening drawers and moving things they were getting closer to the closet I pressed myself against the back wall praying they wouldn't find me the door handle turned and I held my breath the door swung open and I saw the man's face he froze for a second then his eyes widened what the hell he shouted reaching for me I didn't think just sted I shoved past him knocking him off balance and ran for the door the other men shouted and lunged at me but I ducked and sprinted out

into the rain I didn't look back I just ran the rain was blinding and the forest was dark but I kept going I could hear them behind me crashing through the trees shouting my HS burned and my legs felt like they would give out but I didn't see stop I needed to find help get away from them I stumbled down a hill slipping in the mud and crashed into a stream the cold water shocked me but I kept going following the stream hoping it would lead me to safety the sounds of pursuit grew fainter and

I risked to glance back they weren't there I kept moving more carefully now trying to stay hidden the stream led to a dirt road and I followed it praying for a car or an house anything after what felt like hours I saw headlights I waved frantically and the car stopped it was a ranger I told him everything barely able to speak from exhaustion and fear he took me to the nearest station where I finally felt safe they never found the men or the cabin I still think about that night how close I came to being

caught I haven't been back to the woods since it was pouring rain that night the kind of rain that makes it hard to see even with the wipers on Full Speed I was driving back home from my mom's place with my daughter Lily in the back seat the road was slick and the wind was howling through the trees lining the narrow road we were about 10 mi from home when the car suddenly skitted I tried to correct the steering but it was too late the car slid off the road and into a ditch sinking into

the mud with a sickening thud Lily was scared but un hurt thank God I tried to drive out but the tires just spun in the mud I reached for my phone to call for help but there was no signal I told Lily to stay in the car while I checked if there was any way to get the car moving as I stepped out the rain drenched me instantly the mud was thick and sticky clinging to my shoes with every step I was inspecting the tires when I saw headlights approaching a wave of relief washed over

me maybe they could help pull us out the car stopped and a man stepped out he was tall and had had pulled over his head making it hard to see his face need some help he called out over the sound of the rain yes please I replied my car stuck in the mud can you help us he walked over and as he got closer I felt a strange sense of unease there was something off about him something I couldn't quite put my finger on but I was desperate I had have a rope in my truck

he said I can pull you out he went back to his truck and I turned to check on Lily she was watching from the back seat her wide eyes filled with worry I tried to smile reassuringly but I couldn't shake the uneasy feeling the man came back with a rope and started attaching it to the front of my car he worked in silence his movements quick and precise once he was done he got back back into his truck and started pulling the car lurched forward but it didn't budge much the mud was too deep he

got out of the truck again and walked over it's not working he said his tone flat we'll need to try something else I nodded unsure of what to say he walked closer and I noticed a glint in his eyes that sent a chill down my spine why don't you and the kid come waai in my truck it's warm and dry something about his suggestion set off alarm bells in my head no we're fine I said quickly we'll stay here his expression darkened it's not safe out here he insisted stepping closer you need to come with

me I took a step back my heart pounding no thank you I repeated trying to keep my voice steady we'll be fine he cracked my arm his tight and painful I'm not asking he crawled you're coming with me panic surged through me I twisted out of his and ran to the car locking the doors behind me Lily was crying and I tried to calm her down while fumbling for my phone still no signal the man was pounding on the window now shouting for me to open the door I ignored him and started the car hoping

against hope that we could somehow get free the tires spun uselessly and I felt tears of frustration and fear welling up then a miracle another set of headlights appeared down the road the man stopped pounding in turn to face the new car I hunt the horn desperately hoping to get their attention the car stopped and two men got out they looked From Me To The Man and seemed to understand the situation immediately is there a problem here one of them called out the man backed away from the window muttering something under his breath he glanced

at me one last time his eyes full of anger before walking back to his truck he drove off without another word the two men walked over to my car are you okay one of them asked I nodded still shaking yes thank you he was trying to get us to go with him they looked at each other and then back at me let's get you out of here the other man said they hooked up their truck to my car and managed to pull it free from the mud once we were back on the road I thanked

them repeatedly they offered to follow us home to make sure we got there safely and I gratefully accepted Lily was still scared but I promised her we were safe now we made it home without any further incidents I never found out who that man was or what he wanted but I'm grateful to those two men who showed up when they did I arrived at the Airbnb late the rain pouring down in sheets it had been a long drive and all I wanted was to get inside and dry off the place looked cozy in the pictures

and when I finally pulled up it seemed all right a small cottage tucked away from the main road lights glowing warmly inside I crabbed my bags and hurried to the door the owner Paul greeted me he seemed friendly enough though there was something about his smile that made me uneasy I I crushed it off as paranoia it had been a stressful week I thanked him took the keys and stepped inside the place was Charming just like the photos rustic furniture a fireplace and the soft patter of rain on the roof I unpacked my things and

tried to relax but the unease lingered I chocked it up to the storm outside and decided to take a shower after I finished I went to locked the front door that's when I noticed it the lock was on the outside my heart skipped a beat I checked the other doors and windows all of them had the same setup locks on the outside none on the inside Panic set in I tried calling Paul but my phone had no signal the Wi-Fi wasn't working either I felt trapped the rain pounded harder and the wind held through the

trees I needed to think I needed to find a way out without letting him know I was unto him I remembered seeing a small window in the bathroom that might be big enough to crawl through quietly I made my way there I tried opening it but it was painted shot I started to panic again but I knew I had to stay calm I looked around for something to break the glass ass there was a heavy candle holder on the sink I grabbed it and with a silent prayer swung it at the window The Clash shattered

and I froze listening for any signs that Paul had heard nothing I cleared away the shards and tried to squeeze throw it was a tight fit but I managed to get my upper body out that's when I heard footsteps I scrambled pushing myself the rest of the way out I fell into the mud outside the rain soaking me instantly I didn't have time to think about it I got up and ran the trees were dense and the Darkness made it hard to see I stumbled over roots and rocks my heart pounding in my chest I

heard a door slam behind me and knew Paul was coming I had to keep moving I ran until my lungs burned and my legs felt like like they would give out I found a small clearing inad behind a fallen log trying to catch my breath I could hear Paul shouting calling my name his voice getting closer I needed to find help but I didn't know where I was I decided to keep heading away from the cottage hoping I'd find a road or another house I moved as quietly as I could every sound making my heart

race after what felt like hours I saw lights through the trees I I crept closer praying someone was home I reached the edge of the yard and saw a car in the driveway I ran to the front door and banged on it hoping whoever was inside would help me the door opened and an older woman stood there looking confused and worried I tried to explain what happened but I was out of breath and soaking wet she let me in and called the police I could hear Paul's shouts in the distance but I knew I was

safe now the police arrived quickly and I told them everything they found Paul searching the woods near the cottage he tried to deny everything but they found evidence in the house that backed up my story hidden cameras restraints things that made my skin crawl I never found know what Paul's true intentions were and I didn't want to I just wanted to forget the whole or de the police assured me he would be locked up for a long time but it didn't make me feel much better the rain had stopped by the time I left the

police station a friend picked me up and drove me home I spent the rest of the night wide awake listening to every Creek and rustle afraid that somehow Paul would find me I knew it was irrational but after that night I couldn't help but feel that I was never truly safe I was staying at this hotel for a business trip it wasn't anything fancy but it seemed decent enough when I checked in the first night went by without any issues I attended my meetings and came back to the room to crash the next night though

things took a turn turn it was past midnight when I realized I left my phone charger in my car I decided to go get it because my phone was almost dead I put on my shoes grabbed my key card and headed out the H it was empty and quiet and the only sound was the hum of the fending machine near the elevator I took the elevator down to the parking lot got my charger and headed back up to my room when I got to my door I swiped the key card but the light flashed red

I tried again thinking maybe I swiped it too fast still red I tried a few more times but it didn't work frustrated I decided to go down to the front desk to get a new key when I got there the lobby was empty no one was at the front desk I rang the bell but no one came I called out hello but still no response it was late and I was getting annoyed I walked around trying to find someone the hallways were dimly lit and the whole place felt Eerie after what felt like forever I

finally saw a guy in a hotel uniform coming out of a door near the laundry room I called out to him and he turned to look at me he smiled and walked over hey can I help you he asked I told him my tea card wasn't working and I couldn't get into my room he nodded and said he could help me he asked for my room number and I told him he said he would get a new key card for me he led me to a back office saying the system was there not at the

front desk it seemed odd but I was tired and just wanted to get back to my room the office was down in narrow hallway away from the main lobby he unlocked the door and gestured for me to go in first I stepped inside and that's when I realized something was wrong the office was messy with papers everywhere and no computer in sight before I could react I heard the door closed behind me I turned around and the guy was blocking the doorway his friendly smile was gone what's going on I asked trying to keep my

voice steady he didn't answer instead he stepped closer and I backed away until I hit the desk my mind was racing trying to figure out what to do just give me your wallet and phone he said finally his voice low and menacing I realized then that this was a setup he must have seen me leave my room and decided to take advantage of the situation I handed over my wallet and phone hoping that would be enough for him to leave leave me alone he took them and then looked me over empty your pockets he demanded

I did as he said showing him I had nothing else he seemed satisfied and finally stepped back opening the door don't make a sound he warned or you'll regret it I nodded and he left closing the door behind him I waited a few moments heart pounding then slowly opened the door the hallway was empty I crept back to the lobby looking around for anyone who could help the place was still deserted I finally found an House's phone and called the main line after a few rings the same guy answered front desk how can I help

you he said his voice back to being friendly I hun up realizing he was the only staff around desperate I went back to my room and tried to keep card again this time the door clicked open I quickly went inside and locked the door behind me I sat on the bed shaking trying to process what had just happened in the morning I went to the front desk and reported everything they seemed shocked and promised to look into it they gave me back my wallet and phone which had been found in a trash can outside I

checked out and moved to a different hotel for the rest of my stay I never saw that guy again and the hotel never gave me a clear explanation but I learned to always be cautious especially when traveling alone I rented an isolated Airbnb for a weekend getaway I wanted some peace and quiet the place was perfect a small cabin surrounded by Woods theost Jim seemed friendly at first he greeted me with a big smile and showed me around the first night was peaceful I sat by the fireplace reading a book and enjoying the Solitude the

cabin was cozy and the woods were silent except for the occasional rustling of leaves I went to bed early feeling relaxed the next morning Jim showed up unannounced he said he was checking to make sure everything was all right it seemed a bit strange but I didn't think much of it he left after a few minutes and I went about my day later that afternoon I went for a Ike the trails around the cabin were beautiful when I returned I found Jin sitting on the porch he said he was waiting to ask if I needed

anything I assured him I was fine and thanked him he left but I started feeling uneasy that evening I cooked dinner and tried to relax around 8:00 p.m. there was a knock at the door it was Jim again he said he wanted to make sure I was comfortable I felt a bit creeped out but didn't want to be rude I thanked him and closed the door the next morning I woke up to find Jim outside walking around the cabin I watched him through the window for a while he seemed to be inspecting the place I

decided to confront him when I stepped outside he smiled and said he was just making sure everything was in order I told him I appreciated his concern but needed some privacy that afternoon I tried to call a friend but there was no self-surface I hadn't noticed before but the cabin was in a dead zone I felt isolated and uneasy I decided to leave the next day cutting my trip short that night I heard footsteps outside the cabin I looked out the window and saw Jim walking around again he was holding something that looked like a

tool I locked the doors and windows my heart pounding I didn't sleep much that night the next morning Jim showed up again he knocked on the door and when I didn't answer he started shouting he demanded to be let in saying he needed to check something inside I told him to go away but he kept shouting I realized I was trapped there was no way to call for help and Jim was getting more aggressive I decided to make a run for it I packed a bag quickly and snuck out the back door while he was

still pounding on the front I ran through the woods trying to stay quiet I didn't know where I was going but I had to get away from the cabin after a while I found a road I followed it until I reached a small town I went to the nearest store and asked to use the phone I called the police and told them what happened they took my statement and said they would check on the cabin I felt relieved but tell shaken the police found Jim at the cabin they said he was acting erratic and had

a history of mental illness they took him into custody and assured me he wouldn't bother me again I was safe but the experience left me rattled I couldn't believe how quickly things had escalated I was home alone during summer break my parents were on a trip and I had the house to myself it was late and I was lying in bed almost asleep suddenly I heard class shattering downstairs my heart raced as I sat up straining to listen I thought it might be a train but then I heard footsteps I got out of bed quietly

and crept to my bedroom door I opened at a crack and peeed out into the hallway it was dark and silent but I could hear the faint sounds of movement downstairs I needed to get my phone to call the police but I had left it in the living room I curse myself for being so careless I tiptoed out of my room and headed for the stairs careful to avoid the creaky spots on the floor as I got closer to the stairs I heard voices two men were talking in hush tones they sounded like they were

searching for something I crouched down and peeed through the banister I could see Shadows moving in the living room I needed to find a way to get to my phone without being seen I decided to go through the kitchen which had a door that led to the living room I slowly made my way downstairs my heart pounding in my chest I reached the kitchen and paused listening the men were still in the living room their voices low but urgent I moved quietly inching towards the kitchen door I opened it slowly hoping it wouldn't Creak I

could see the living room now one of the men was rumaging through drawers while the other was looking at the shelves my phone was on the coffee table just a few feet away from them I took a deep breath and crawled on the floor staying as low as possible I moved slowly my eyes never leaving the burglar I was almost at the coffee table when one of them turned around I froze my heart stopping he looked right at me but he didn't seem to see me I stayed perfectly still praying he wouldn't notice after a

moment he turned back to his search I reached the coffee table and grabbed my phone I crawled back to the kitchen my heart racing I made it to the kitchen and closed the door behind me as quietly as I could I dialed 911 my hand shaking I whispered to the operator telling them about the burlar they said they would send officers right away and told me to stay hidden I found a spot behind the kitchen counter where I could watch the living room door I waited my foone clutched in my hand the berkers were still

searching o obious to my presence minutes felt like hours as I waited for the police to arrive I heard one of the berkers say they needed to hurry up they sounded frustrated like they weren't finding what they were looking for finally I heard sirens in the distance the berkers heard them two and panicked they crapped a few things and ran towards the back door I stayed hidden not daring to move I heard the back door slam and the sound of footsteps running away the sirens grew louder and soon I saw flashing lights outside the police

had arrived I stayed behind the counter until I heard the police calling out announcing their presence I stood up and walked to the front door my leg shaky I opened the door and saw two officers standing there they asked if I was okay and I nodded feeling A Rush of relief I told them what had happened and they searched the house to make sure the burkers were gone they took my statement and said they would investigate I called my parents and told them what had happened they were worried but glad I was safe I spent

the rest of the night in a days the adrenaline still coursing through my veins the police never caught the burkers but they said I did the right thing by staying hidden and calling for help it was a terrifying experience and I was just glad it was over my car broke down in the middle of nowhere the road was empty and my phone had no signal I tried to restart the engine but it just wouldn't turn over I got out and looked under the hood but I didn't know what I was looking at it was just

a mess of metal and wires to me I was starting to panic when I saw headlights approaching I waved my arms hoping they would stop the car slowed down and pulled over a man rolled down his window and asked if I needed help I told him my car wouldn't start and I needed a tow truck he looked at my car and said he could give me a ride to the nearest town I hesitated but it was getting late and I didn't want to be stranded all night I thanked him and got in he seemed friendly

enough middleaged with a kind smile we troll for a few minutes in silence then he started asking me questions where was I from what was I doing out here I answered politely but something about his tone made me uneasy he was too interested too eager to know everything about me I noticed we were heading in the opposite direction of the nearest town I told him he was going the wrong way he glanced at me and smiled but didn't turn around he said he knew a shortcut my stomach twisted something was off I asked him again

to turn around but he ignored me I reached for my phone hoping to find a signal but there was none he noticed and chuckled saying it was pointless out here my heart was pounding I had to get out of this car I told him to stop and let me out he just kept driving his smile gone now replaced with a cold hard look I grabbed the door handle but it wouldn't open child locks my Panic Rose I was trapped I started yelling at him demanding he let me out he laughed a low chilling sound he

said I wasn't going anywhere I looked around the car desperate for something to defend myself with there was nothing just an old blanket on the back seat we drove deeper into the woods away from the main road the trees closed and around us blocking out the Moonlight it was dark and I couldn't see a way out he pulled the car over and turned off the engine the silence was deafening he turned to me his eyes cold and empty he said I was going to do exactly what he said or things would get ugly I was

shaking my mind Racing for a way out he reached into the glove compartment and pulled out a knife my blood ran cold he ordered me to get out of the car I hesitated but the look in his eyes told me he wasn't bluffing I opened the door and stepped out my legs trembling he got out too holding the knife casually like it was just an extension of his hand he told me to start walking I asked where but he just pointed deeper into the woods I started walking my mind frantically searching for a way to

escape the underbrush was thick and the trees loomed overhead blocking out the Stars I heard him walking behind me his footsteps crunching on the leaves I needed to do something anything I stumbled over a route and fell and in that moment I made a decision I crapped a handful of dirt and leaves and threw it in his face he yelled stumbling back and I ran I didn't know where I was going but I ran as fast as I could branches scratched my face and my lungs burned but I didn't stop I could hear him behind

me cursing and crashing through the underbrush I saw a light ahead a small cabin in the woods I sprinted towards it praying someone was home I pounded on the door screaming for help the door opened and an old man stood there a shotgun in his hands he took one look at me and then passed me to the man chasing me the old man raised his shotgun and fired a warning shot into the air the man chasing me stopped his face Twisted in Rage he turned and fled back into the woods the old man pulled me

inside and locked the door I collapsed on the floor shaking and crying he called the police and they came and took my statement they searched the woods but didn't find the man every evening when I walked home from work I noticed a man staring at me from across the street at first I thought it was just a coincidence people look at other people all the time right but after a week it became clear that this wasn't just random he was always there same time same place just staring he never smiled or waved just watched it

was creepy but I told myself not to worry I lived in a busy neighborhood and nothing bad had ever happened to me there I kept my head down and hurried home trying to ignore the prickling sensation on the back of my neck every time I passed him one Friday evening it was darker than usual and the streets were quieter as I walked past his usual spot I noticed he wasn't there relief washed over me and I quickened my Pace eager to get home but as I turned the corner to my building I saw him again

leaning against the wall staring right at me I froze for a moment then forced myself to keep walking I could feel his eyes following me my heart pounded in my chest as I fumbled with my keys finally getting the door open I glanced back and saw him crossing the street heading straight for me Panic set in I rushed inside and slammed the door shut leaning against it trying to catch my breath I ran up the stairs to my apartment on the third floor I locked the door behind me and went straight to the window peeking

through the blinds I saw him standing outside looking up at the building he had followed me he knew where I lived fear cried me what did he want why was he following me I didn't sleep much that night every little noise made me jump I considered calling the police but what would I say that a man was staring at me that he followed me home they would probably tell me there was nothing they could do the next day I decided to change my routine I left work earlier hoping to avoid him it worked for a

few days but then he was there again waiting for me this time I didn't go straight home I walked past my building and went to a nearby cafe I sat there for hours watching the door waiting to see if he would come in he didn't but when I finally left he was there across the street watching I couldn't live like this I felt trapped in my own home scared to go outside I needed to do something I decided to confront him maybe if I showed him I wasn't afraid he would leave me alone the next

evening I saw him in his usual spot I walked straight up to him my hands shaking but I tried to keep my voice steady why are you following me I demanded he just stared at me not saying a word up close he looked even more menacing his eyes were cold and empty he didn't answer he just kept staring leave me alone I said loud at this time people on the street were starting to look I'm calling the police if you don't stop he smirked then a slow unsettling smile you should be careful he said his

voice low and threatening you never know who might be watching I backed away my heart racing I didn't look back as I hurried to my building once inside I locked the door and called the police they came and took my statement but there wasn't much they could do they said they would Patrol the area more often but without a direct threat there was little they could do the next few days were a blur of anxiety and fear I avoided going out as much as possible when I did I made sure I wasn't alone I told

my neighbors and the building manager about the man and they promised to keep an eye out one night as I was about to go to bed I heard a noise outside my door my blood ran cold I crept to the door and looked through the peep Hall there he was standing right outside trying to pick the lock I cracked my phone and called 911 Whispering frantically to the operator the minutes felt like hours as I waited for the police to arrive I could hear him messing with the lock getting closer to breaking in I held

my breath praying he wouldn't get in before help arrived finally I heard sirens and the sound of footsteps running up the stairs the man turned and fled but the police were right behind him they caught him before he could get away the police found a knife in his pocket and a piece of paper with my address on it they arrested him and I pressed charges he had a record of stalking and assault and it turned out he had been following me for weeks planning to break in and who knows what else it took a while

for me to feel safe again I installed extra locks on my door and set up a security system I still jump at every little noise but I'm getting better I'm just glad he's Behind Bars and can't hurt me I was driving along on a long stretch of highway the rain started coming down harder making it difficult ult to see the windshield wipers were going full speed but it didn't seem to help much the road was nearly deserted and I felt a bit uneasy it was the kind of night that made you wish you weren't alone

I saw a figure on the side of the road drenched and holding out a thumb normally I wouldn't pick up a hitchhiker but the weather was awful and I felt a Pang of sympathy I pulled over and rolled down the window need a ride I asked he smiled his face partly hidden by the hood of his jacket yes please it's miserable out here he climbed in bringing a wave of cold what air with him I turned up the heat and started driving again we exchanged Small Talk At first his name was Mike he seemed friendly

enough talking about the in his bad luck with his car breaking down I felt more relaxed with him in the car the company breaking the monotony of the drive but as the rain got heavier something in his demeanor changed his responses became shorter his tone more serious I tried to keep the conversation going but it felt forced there was a tension in the air that I couldn't quite Place suddenly he reached over and locked the car doors I glanced at him my heart starting to race why did you do that I asked trying to keep

my voice steady for safety he replied but there was something unsettling in his voice he turned to face me his eyes cold and calculating keep driving fear CPT me what's going on I demanded my voice shaking he pulled a knife from his jacket and held it up where I could see it just keep driving he said calmly and don't do anything stupid my mind raced trying to think of a way out the rain was pounding on the roof the road a blur in the headlights I had to stay calm had to think where are we

going I asked hoping to buy some time there's a rest area a few miles up the road in there he ordered I nodded trying to keep my breathing steady the rest area wasn't far and I had to find a way to escape before we got there I kept glancing at the road looking for any opportunity the rain made it hard to see but I noticed a small dirt road coming up on the right without warning I yanked the wheel and turned onto the dirt road the car skitted in the mud and my cursed grabbing the

dashboard for support what the hell are you doing he shouted I didn't answer I just kept driving the car bouncing and sliding on the rough road I could hear him fumbling with a knife trying to steady himself the dirt rode wound through the trees and I hoped it would lead to somewhere safe stop the car he demanded his voice full of anchor he launched at me and I swered trying to throw him off balance the knife grazed my arm and I cried out in pain I slammed on the brakes the car sliding to a stop

I crabbed my bleeding arm and looked at him he was panting the knife still in his hand get out he ordered pointing the knife at me I didn't move please just let me go I pleaded he shook his head get out he repeated more forcefully I slowly opened the door and stepped out into the rain it was freezing the water soaking through my clothes instantly Mike got out on his side keeping the knife pointed at me walk he said nodding toward the trees I started walking my mind racing terrain was so heavy I could barely

see a few feet ahead I had to find a way to escape to get away from him he was right behind me the knife glinting in the dim light we walked for what felt like ours the mud sucking at my shoes the rain Relentless my arm throbbed where he had cut me and I was starting to feel dizzy I had to do something had to find a way to get away suddenly I heard a noise a rustling in the trees I stopped turning to look Mike crapped my arm pulling me forward keep moving he snapped

but the noise came again closer this time it sounded like footsteps I glanced around trying to see through the rain someone's coming I said hoping it was true Mike looked around his on my arm tightening shut up he hissed the footsteps were getting closer and I could see a light boobing through the trees Mike cursed pulling me toward the car we need to get out of here he said his voice panicked I saw my chance I twisted out of his and ran toward the light screaming for help help please help me the light stopped and

I Heard a Voice call out who's there Mike was right behind me but I didn't stop I ran as fast as I could the mud and Rain slowing me down I could hear him cursing struggling to keep up I burst through the trees and saw a figure holding a flashlight it was a man a hunter by the looks of it help me I cried running toward him he looked confused for a moment then saw Mike coming after me he raised the flashlight shining it in Mike's face what's going on here he demanded Mike stopped the

knife still in his hand just a misunderstanding he said trying to sound calm the hunter wasn't buying it he raised his rifle pointing it at Mike dropped the knife he ordered Mike hesitated then dropped the knife in the mud the hunter kept the rifle trained on him his eyes narrowing you okay Miss he asked me I nodded tears streaming down my face thank you I whispered the hunter kept the rifle on Mike as he called the police they arrived quickly taking Mike into custody I was safe but I knew I would never forget that night

the terror in the rain I would never pick up a hitchhiker again not even for a million dollars