True Scary Stories For Sleep With Rain Sounds | True Horror Stories | Fall Asleep Quick Vol. 20

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 woke up to a strange noise coming from downstairs at first I thought it was the wind or maybe the old house settling but then I heard the

unmistakable sound of footsteps my heart started pounding as I realized someone was inside the house I glanced at the clock it was 3:12 a.m. my daughter Lily was sleeping in the room next to mine I quietly got out of bed and tiptoed to Lily's room she was sound asleep her small body curled up under the blankets I gently shook her awake whispered that we needed to be very quiet she looked at me with wide confused eyes but nodded I crabbed her hand and led her to the closet I whispered for her to stay there no

matter what and closed the door behind her I moved back to my bedroom and picked up my phone but the battery was dead Panic surged through me I had left the charger downstairs in the kitchen I could hear the burkers rumaging through our things their voices low and urgent I needed to find a way to protect Lily in can help I remembered the old baseball bat in the hall closet it wasn't much but it was better than nothing I crept out of the bedroom moving as silently as I could I could hear them in the

living room talking in hush tones my heart was racing and my hands were shaking as I reached for the closet door I grabbed the bat and took a deep breath trying to steady myself the floor creeped under my foot and I froze the talking stopped I held my breath praying they hadn't hurt after a few tense moments the talking resumed I let out a silent sigh of relief and continued down the hallway I reached the top of the stairs and peered down there were two of them both wearing masks and gloves they were rifling through

the tree doors and cabinets looking for valuables I had to get to the kitchen to charge my phone and call for help but there was no way I could get past them unnoticed I decided to try and scare them off I cried the bat tightly and shouted as loudly as I could get out of my house I've called the police their head snapped up and for a moment they looked unsure then one of them started up the stairs and I knew my bluff hadn't worked I backed up into the hallway my heart pounding so hard

I thought it might burst the man was getting closer I swung the bat as he reached the top of the stairs catching him on the shoulder he stumbled back cursing but didn't fall he lunged at me and we struggled I was fighting for my life and for Lily's he wrestled the bat from my hands and threw it down the stairs I tried to screen but he covered my mouth with his gloved hand the other man was coming up the stairs now and I knew I couldn't let them find Lily I bit down hard on his

hand and he yelped giving me a chance to break free I ran back to Lily's room and locked the door behind me I could hear them pounding on the door shouting angrily I ran to the window and looked out we were on the second floor and there was a small ledge just outside I opened the window and helped Lily climb out I followed her and we inched our way along the ledge to the tree next to the house we climbed down as quickly as we could once we were on the ground we ran I didn't

know where we were going but we had to get away from the house we ran to the neighbor's house and banged on the door Mrs Thompson answered her eyes white with surprise I quickly explained what was happening and she let us in she called the police while I held Lily trying to calm her down it felt like hours before the police arrived though it was probably only minutes they searched the house but the berkers were gone they had taken some valuables but I didn't care Lily and I were safe and that was all that mattered

the police took our statements and promised to do everything they could to catch the burglar I was shaken but grateful that we had gotten out safely we stayed with Mrs Thompson that night and I didn't sleep at all holding Lily close and listening for any sounds outside the next morning I went back to the house to see the damage it was a mass with drawers pulled out and things scattered everywhere I felt violated knowing strangers had been in our home going through our things but we were alive and that was what mattered most most we

stayed with friends for a while after that I couldn't bring myself to sleep in the house again I first noticed him while I left work it was late around 900 p.m. I had stayed behind to finish some reports as I walked to my car I saw a man leaning against a lamp poost his eyes fixed on me at first I thought he might just be waiting for someone but something about his stare made me uneasy I pushed it off and got into my car heading home the next night he was there again same spot same

unsettling Stare this time I tried to get a better look at him he was average height wearing a hoodie that shadowed his face my heart started to race as I hurried to my car I couldn't shake the feeling that he was following me even though I didn't see him again that night it became a pattern every night he was there I started taking different routes home hoping to lose him but no matter which way I went I always felt his presence I tried to convince myself it was just my imag ination but deep down I

knew it wasn't one evening as I was unlocking my door I glanced over my shoulder and saw him standing across the street my blood ran cold he was getting Boulder I rushed inside and locked all the doors my hands were shaking as I dialed my friend Jason to come over he arrived quickly and stayed the night having him there made me feel a bit safer but I knew this wasn't a permanent solution the next morning I found a note on my car windshield it was a single word soon Panic set in I didn't know what

to do I went to the police but they said without any real evidence there wasn't much they could do they advised me to be cautious and keep a record of any incidents that night I installed new locks and bought a baseball bat just in case my nerves were on edge every little noise made me jump I couldn't sleep constantly peering out the window half expecting to see him standing there a few days later I decided to work from home hoping it would make me feel safer but then the phone call started they were always silent

but I could hear breathing on the other end I knew it was him I stopped answering the phone letting it go to voicemail but the calls kept coming day and night one evening I heard a noise coming from the backyard I crapped a bat and slowly made my way to the back door through the window I saw him trying to open the gate my heart pounded in my chest as I dialed 911 he saw me and L off before the police arrived they searched the area but found nothing the fear was overwhelming I felt trapped

in my own home I couldn't eat couldn't sleep my life was consumed by the terror of this Unknown man I decided to take matters into my own hands I bought a security camera and installed it at the front and back of the house at least now I could see him coming one night I saw him on the camera lurking in the shadows of my front yard I called the police again but by the time they arrived he was gone they told me to stay inside and keep the doors locked it felt like a useless suggestion

the final straw came when I woke up to find my living room window shattered he had thrown a break through it attached was another note tonight I knew I couldn't stay there any longer I packed a bag and drove to Jason's Place explaining everything he insisted I stay with him until this was sorted out that night Jason and I stayed up watching the security footage from my house around midnight we saw him he approached the house trying to open the front door when he couldn't he moved to the broken window Jason called the police and

we watched as they arrived and finally caught him it was a huge relief the man was arrested and identified as a local with a history of stalking he had been watching me for weeks planning who knows what the police found more notes and some disturbing drawings in his apartment knowing he was behind bars brought some peace but the fear lingered I stayed with Jason for a while trying to regain a sense of normaly it wasn't easy every time I walked down the street or heard an unexpected noise my heart would race but slowly I started

to feel safer I moved to a new apartment in a different part of town and installed a top-notch security system The Experience left a lasting mark on me I was more cautious more aware of my surroundings I never walked alone at night and always checked my rearview mirror I drove up to The Farmhouse dust trailing behind me the sun was setting casting Long Shadows over the fields I was meeting a potential buyer named Greg who had shown interest in the place the house was old but charming and I was hopeful this would be a quick

sale I parked my car grabbed my briefcase and walked towards the front door when I knocked the door creaked open on its own I called out for Craig but there was no response I stepped inside the wooden floorboards creaking under my feet the air inside was musty and it felt like no one had been there for years I checked my phone for any messages but had no service I decided to look around maybe Craig was already inside the living room room was empty except for some old furniture covered in dust I moved to the kitchen

calling out his name again still no answer on the kitchen table I found a note with my name on it it said Hannah come upstairs my stomach knotted up but I tried to stay calm maybe he was just shy or nervous I went up the narrow staircase each step echoing through the house at the top I found a hallway with several doors the note didn't specify which room so I started with the first one on the left it was a bedroom empty and cold the bed looked like it hadn't been used in years I backed

out and tried the next room it was a bathroom equally neglected as I moved to the third door I heard a noise behind me I spun around but there was nothing there my heart was racing now I opened the door and found an office papers were scattered everywhere and the window was open letting in a slight breeze I've walked over to the desk and saw another note this one said basement I hesitated this was getting too weird I decided to leave and call the office once I had service again as I turned to go back

downstairs I heard the front door landam shut Panic set in I ran down the stairs but when I reached the bottom I saw a figure standing in front of the door it was a man and he didn't look like any buyer I'd ever met who are you I demanded trying to keep my voice steady he smiled but it didn't reach his eyes Craig couldn't make it I'm here instead I felt a chill run down my spine I think there's been a misunderstanding I'll just leave now he shook his head slowly I'm afraid you can't do

that Hannah I backed up looking for another exit the windows were boarded up from the outside my only chance was the back door I made a run for it but he was faster he crapped my arm and pulled me back his like iron I struggled Kicking and Screaming but he didn't let go let me go I shouted but he just laughed he dragged me towards the basement door I fought harder but it was no use he was too strong he opened the door and shoved me down the stairs I tumbled down hitting the cold concrete

floor hard pain shot through my body but I forced myself to get up the basement was dark and smelt damp I could hear him coming down the stairs his footsteps slow and deliberate I looked around frantically for something to defend myself with there was nothing but old furniture and boxes then I saw a metal pipe in the corner I crabbed it and held it up ready to swing he reached the bottom of the stairs and paused there's no need for that he said his voice calm stay back I warned my hand shaking he took a

step closer I swung the pipe but he dodged it easily he lunged at me and we both fell to the ground the pipe slipped from my hands he pinned me down his face inches from mine you're not leaving here he whispered I felt a surge of adrenaline I twisted my body and managed to get one hand free I reached for the pipe and swung it at his head it connected with a sickening thud he fell to the side and I scrambled to my feet I didn't wait to see if he was unconscious I ran up

the stairs and out the back door I sprinted through the fields not looking back I could hear him yelling behind me but I didn't stop my car was inside sight and I prayed the keys were still in my pocket I reached the car and fumbled with the keys my hands trembling finally I got the door open and jumped in locking it behind me the engine roared to life and I sped down the dirt road not stopping until I reached the nearest town I went straight to the police station and told them everything they went to

The Farmhouse but found it empty the man was gone and there was no sign of him I never found out who he was or what he wanted The Farmhouse was put up for sale again but I couldn't bring myself to go back the Experience Haunted me and I couldn't shake the feeling that he was still out there watching and waiting we had just arrived at the rental house by the lake it was supposed to be a perfect summer getaway Jason my best friend had booked a place for a week it was a large old house

but it had charm there were six of us Jason his girlfriend Emily Mike Sarah Lisa and me the first night we unpacked and settled in excited for the days head the next morning we decided to explore the house it had a lot of rooms and even an attic while looking around I noticed a small door in the back of one of the closets it was weird almost like a hidden compartment I called Jason over and we opened it together inside there were a few old blankets and some empty cans it looked like someone had been

there recently we showed the others and it became a topic of conversation we joked about it saying maybe it was a kid's hiding spot but deep down it made us all a bit uneasy we decided to let it go and enjoy our vacation that evening we had a barbecue and drank by the lake the thought of that little room drifted away as we had fun the next day while we were out on the boat Emily realized she had forgotten her phone at the house she went back alone to get it when she returned she looked

pale and nervous she said she felt like someone was watching her from the woods we laughed it off saying she was probably just spooked by the isolation later that night we heard strange noises coming from the attic it sounded like footsteps Jason and Mike decided to check it out they cracked flashlights and went up we waited downstairs the tension building when they came back down they said they didn't find anything just some old furniture and boxes the following day Sarah found a broken picture frame in the living room it wasn't there before the photo inside

was of a family but none of us recognized them the class was shattered and it looked like it had been thrown we started to get worried we couldn't shake the feeling that something was off that night we decided to sleep in pears the house felt too big and empty Jason and Emily took the master bedroom Mike and Sarah stayed in the guest room and Lisa and I took the living room couches I woke up in the middle of the night to the sound of creaking floorboards I sat up and saw a shadow move across the

hallway my heart raced but I stayed silent the next morning I told the others who I saw Jason suggested we should leave but Mike insisted we were just scaring ourselves he said we should stay and enjoy the rest of our vacation we reluctantly agreed but I couldn't shape the feeling of being lached during the day we tried to keep busy with outdoor activities but every time we returned to the house there were more signs a door left open items moved and once we we found muddy Footprints leading from the back door to the hidden room

it was clear someone was inside the house with us one evening we heard a loud crash from the kitchen we ran in and found all the drawers and cabinets open silverware scattered everywhere Jason yelled out demanding to know who was there but no one answered we called the local police but when they arrived they didn't find anything they said it was probably just an animal we knew better by the fifth night the atmosphere was tense we decided to stay up in shifts watching for any signs of the Intruder around 3:00 a.m. it was my turn

I sat in the living room ice heavy with sleep when I heard a faint whisper I turned towards the sound and saw a figure standing in the hallway just staring at me I froze unable to move or speak the figure stepped forward into the light it was a man disheveled and dirty he looked like he had been living in the woods for a long time he smiled but it wasn't friendly I managed to shout and the others woke up and came running the man bolted disappearing into the night we packed our things and laugh immediately

none of us wanted to stay another minute in that house on the drive back we were silent each lost in our thoughts we reported the incident to the rental agency and the police again but we never found out who the man was or why he had been living there that vacation left us all shaken we realized how vulnerable we were how quickly a fun getaway could turn into a nightmare it took a long time for any of us to feel safe again and we never rented a remote house after that I was walking to my

car in the parking lot the sun just starting to set it had been a long day and I was ready to go home as I approached my car I fumbled in my bag for my keys I heard footsteps behind behind me but didn't think much of it at first suddenly someone crapped me from behind I struggled but they were strong a hand covered my mouth and I felt myself being dragged backward Panic set in I kicked and tried to scream but the hand muffled any sound my heart pounded in my chest I was shoved into

the back of a fan the door slammed shut and the engine roared to lock life I couldn't see who had taken me my hands were tied and I felt tape being wrapped around my mouth I tried to scream again but it was useless the van drove for what felt like ours I couldn't see where we were going my mind raised thinking of all the terrible things that could happen I knew I had to stay calm and think of a way to escape finally the fan stopped the door opened and I was roughly pulled out we

were in the middle of nowhere surrounded by trees the man who had taken me wore a mask his eyes cold and calculating he dragged me into a small cabin inside the cabin was dark and smelt damp he tied me to a chair and removed the tape from my mouth I wanted to bake for my life but my voice wouldn't come out he just stared at me not not saying a word I knew I had to do something I looked around the room searching for anything that could help me there was a small window but it

was too high to reach the man left the room and I heard a loot click behind him I struggled against the ropes but they were tight my wrists burned from the effort I couldn't give up I had to find a way out I took deep breath trying to stay calm and focused after what felt like hours the man returned he had a knife in his hand he walked toward me and I felt pure Terror he spoke for the first time telling me that no one was coming to save me I realized I had to act

fast I begged him to let me go trying to sound as convincing as possible I told him that my family would pay any Ransom he wanted he laughed and shook his head saying it wasn't about money while he was distracted I managed to loosen the ropes around my wrists just a little he turned his back to me for a moment and I saw my chance I yanked my hands free and grabbed a heavy lamp from a nearby table I hit him as hard as I could he stumbled and the knife clattered to the floor I

crapped it and pointed it at him my hand shaking he lunged at me but I managed to slash his arm he screamed in pain I ran for the door fumbling with the lock I could hear him behind me cursing and yelling I threw the door open and sprinted into the woods my heart pounded and I didn't look back branches scratched my face and arms as I ran I didn't know where I was going but I had to get away I could hear him crashing ing through the underbrush behind me I kept running adrenaline pushing me

forward finally I saw lights in the distance it was a road I ran toward it waving my arms and shouting for help a car stopped and a woman got out asking what had happened I told her everything in a rush and she called the police the police arrived quickly and went into the woods to find him they told me I was lucky to be alive they found the cabin but the man was gone they assured me they would keep looking until they found him I spent the next few days in a State of Shock I

couldn't sleep couldn't eat the police took my statement and started an investigation they believed the man Was a Serial kidnapper they had been searching for I stayed with my family surrounded by people who cared about me it took a long time to feel safe again I kept looking over my shoulder expecting him to appear out of nowhere the police eventually caught him he was trying to abduct another woman they said my Escape had helped them track him down I testified in court and he was sentenced to life in prison the experience changed me forever I

was more cautious always aware of my surroundings but I refuse to let fear control my life I survived because I fought back because I didn't give up even now I still have nightmares but I know I'm strong I know I can survive anything that day in the parking lot could have been the end but it wasn't while I rented the apartment for the summer I was looking forward to a break from my routine the place was small but cozy just right for a few months a piece the first few weeks were perfect I spent my

days exploring the city and my nights relaxing with a book or a movie one evening I noticed something odd my TV had had a slight reflection and I saw a tiny blinking red light behind me I turned around but there was nothing there I brushed it off as a trick of the light the next day I saw the light again this time from the corner of my living room I got up and searched around moving furniture and looking behind shelves nothing I started to feel uneasy I decided to do a thorough check of the apartment

I moved the couch lifted the carpets and examined every corner in the bedroom I noticed a small hole in the wall just above the Wardrobe I climbed up and peered inside there was a small camera hidden away its lens staring right at me my heart pounded in my chest I pulled the camera out and followed the wire it led to a tiny hole behind a bookshelf drilled through the wall I realized there could be more cameras I checked the bathroom next sure enough there was another one hidden behind the vent Panic set in someone had

been watching me I didn't know for how long or who it was I needed to find out I took the cameras and went to the building manager he seemed surprised but I could tell he knew something he stammered and said he would look into it that night I couldn't sleep every sound made me jump I kept thinking about who could be watching and why the next morning I decided to take matters into my own hands I went to the local electronic store and bought a bug detector I spent hours sweeping the apartment I found three

more cameras all well hidden I felt violated and exposed I needed to find out who was doing this I started to watch the building manager closely he seemed nervous whenever he saw me I noticed he had a routine he always left the building at the same time every day one afternoon I followed him he walked to a nearby cafe and met with a man I had never seen before they talked for a while and then the man handed him an envelope my stomach churned I was getting closer but I needed proof I went back to

the building and decided to search the manager's office I waited until he left for the day then picked the lock and slipped inside I found a hidden panel behind his desk filled with video tapes and a small monitor my stomach Twisted as I saw tapes labeled with my apartment number and dates going back months I took the tapes and left quickly back in my apartment I've watched a few the footage was of me in every room doing everything someone had been watching my every move I called the police and reported what I had found they

came quickly and took the evidence that night I still couldn't sleep I felt like I was being watched the police called me the next day they had arrested the building manager and his accomplice they had been running a voyerism operation recording tenants and selling the footage online even though they were caught I still felt uneasy I moved out of the apartment immediately I found a new place far away and made sure to check every inch of it for hidden cameras The Experience changed me I was more cautious always checking for cameras or anything suspicious I

couldn't shake the feeling of being being watched it took a long time to feel safe again now I double check everything I don't take my privacy for granted I learned to trust my instincts and to act on them I survived that summer but it left a mark I hope I never have to go through something like that again but I know that if I do I'll be ready I'll fight back and I'll survive because no one has the the right to invade my privacy and I'll do whatever it takes to protect myself I took a

day off work to run some errands and decided to stop by the bank to sort out some bills the Sun was shining and everything seemed normal as I walked into the bank there were a few people ahead of me in line and I remember thinking how slow the line was moving while I was waiting I noticed a man near the entrance acting strange he kept looking around almost like he was nervous my cut told me something was off but I didn't think much of it I just wanted to finish my business and get out of

there suddenly the doors burst open and three men with masks and G stormed in everyone started screaming and hitting the floor my heart felt like it was going to explode one of the robbers fired a shot into the ceiling and the noise was deafening everyone down one of them shouted we all dropped to the floor trembling the robbers quickly took control moving around the room and yelling orders I couldn't believe this was happening my mind raised trying to make sense of the chaos one of the robbers grabbed a bank manager and forced him to open

the vault another kept an eye on us waving his gun around and looking jumpy I lay there face down on the cold floor trying to stay calm I could hear the robbers shouting at each other arguing about how much time they had they sounded scared which made them even more dangerous the leader seemed more composed but he was ruthless barking orders and threatening anyone who moved I tried to keep my breathing steady but it was hard every little sound made me jump I glanced around and saw a woman a few feet away clutching her child

the kid was crying softly and I felt a Pang of fear for them one of the robbers the nervous one started pacing near us he kept muttering to himself and I could see his hand shaking I knew if he panicked things could get a lot worse I needed to stay calm and not draw attention to myself I noticed the bank manager was stalling trying to buy time he was opening the Vault slowly talking to the robbers trying to keep them calm I realized he was doing his best to protect us it gave me a little

hope but I knew we were still in serious danger then the nervous robber crapped a woman from the floor and draged her up he pointed his gun at her head and yelled at the manager to hurry up the woman screamed and everyone else started to cry harder my heart sank I felt helpless I had to do something I looked around for anything that could help near the counter I saw a phone if I could reach it maybe I could call for help I knew it was risky but I had to try I slowly started to

inch my way toward the phone staying as low as possible the leader noticed me moving in shouted at me to stop I froze my heart pounding in my chest he walked over gun pointed at me and demanded to know what I was doing I lied and said I was just trying to find a more comfortable position he sneered but seemed to believe me he told me to stay put and went back to the Vault I was shaken but I knew I had to try again I waited for a distraction anything that would give me another

chance the manager finally got the Vault open and the robbers started loading bags with money they were so focused on the cash they didn't notice me inching closer to the phone again I reached it and quickly dialed 911 Whispering for help I barely finished the call when the nervous robber noticed me he ran over Furious and grabbed me by the arm I thought he was going to shoot me the leader yelled at him to stay focused reminding him they didn't have much time the tension was unbearable the robbers were arguing more getting anxious I prayed

the police would come soon I tried to keep calm telling myself to stay strong for everyone's sake finally I heard sirens in the distance the robbers did too and they panicked they crapped the money and started shouting at each other trying to decide what to do the leader told them to take us as hostages the police arrived and surrounded the building I could hear them shouting through megaphones trying to negotiate the robbers were losing control and it felt like everything was falling apart one of the robbers crapped me in another hostage dragging us to the

front of the bank they used us as Shields screaming at the police to back off I was terrified but I knew I had to stay calm the police tried to talk the robbers down promising them safe passage if they let us go the leader was negotiating but the nervous robber snapped he pointed his gun at my head yelling that he was done waiting I felt the cold Barrel against my temple and I thought it was the end but but then a shot rang out the police sniper had taken the shot hitting the nervous robber he

fell and his gun clattered to the floor the other robbers panicked and dropped their weapons the police stormed in taking them down quickly I was pulled to safety my body shaking uncontrollably I couldn't believe it was over the police took statements and checked on everyone I was in shock shock but relieved to be alive the robbers were arrested and we were all taken to the hospital to be checked out I still have nightmares about that day the fear the feeling of helplessness but I'm grateful to be alive and I know how lucky I am our

romantic getaway started like a dream Tom and I rented a remote cabin far away from the city noise we wanted peace and quiet just the two of us the first couple of days were perfect we hiked cooked together and enjoyed the serenity of the woods on the third night we were sitting by the fireplace the only sound was the crackling of the logs suddenly there was a loud bang at the door we looked at each other startled it was almost midnight and we weren't expecting anyone Tom got up to check while I stayed behind my

heart pounding Tom peeed through the window beside the door and froze he turned to me his face pale Lisa there are men outside they have Gs my stomach dropped my mind raised thinking of what to do Tom quickly locked the door and turned off the lights we crouched behind the couch trying to stay calm the men outside started shouting demanding we open the door they banged on the Windows trying to break in we had no cell service out here so calling for help wasn't an option we needed to find another way to signal for help

I remember the emergency flare we had brought with us Tom grabbed a flare gun from the cupboard we could hear the men getting more aggressive smashing the windows I felt a chill run down my spine as I heard glass shattering we had to act fast Tom told me to stay low while he went to the bedroom window to shoot the flare as Tom was about to open the window one of the men broke through the kitchen window I screamed and Tom rushed back to help me the Intruder was inside pointing his gun at us Tom

and I stood Frozen not knowing what to do the man demanded money and valuables Tom tried to reason with him offering what little we had but it wasn't enough The Man became more aggressive threatening us just then we heard more class breaking from another room the rest of the group was inside the cabin our situation was getting worse by the minute one of the men grabbed me pulling me away from Tom I struggled trying to get free Tom lunged at him and they started fighting the man hit Tom with the butt of his gun knocking

him to the ground I screamed fearing for Tom's life another man pointed his gun at me telling me to shut up in the chaos I noticed Tom Chester towards the flare gun which had fallen under the table I slowly moved towards it hoping the men wouldn't notice my hands were shaking but I managed to grab it I aimed at the man closest to me and fired the bright light blinded him and he dropped his gun Tom seized the opportunity tackling the man who had hit him they struggled on the floor while I grabbed the Fallen

gun my hands were trembling but I pointed it at the the other Intruders yelling at them to get out they hesitated realizing we were not as helpless as they thought the man Tom was fighting managed to break free and ran out the door the others followed cursing and threatening to come back we didn't wait to see if they would Tom and I quickly barricaded the doors and windows with whatever we could find we knew they might return so we had to be ready we spent the rest of the on high alert watching and listening for

any signs of the men coming back the cabin was eily quiet except for our heavy breathing and the occasional crack of the fire we held each other trying to stay calm and think of our next move at dawn we decided it was too dangerous to stay any longer we packed our Essentials and prepared to leave we knew the way back to the main road was long and treacherous but it was our only option as we stepped outside the morning sun cast Long Shadows making everything look surreal we moved quickly but cautiously through the woods constantly

looking over our shoulders every snap of a twig or rustle of leaves made my heart race Tom held my hand tightly assuring me we would make it out of this nightmare we just needed to keep moving hours passed and we finally reached the main road we were exhausted but relieved to see a car approaching we flighted it down and the driver seeing our desperate State agreed to help us we told him everything and he drove us to the nearest town at the local police station we recounted our ordeal the officers took our statements and assured

us they would search for the men they also sent a teen to the cabin to investigate we were still in shock but knowing the police were involved brought some comfort the officers arranged for us to stay in a nearby hotel until we could return home safely that night we barely slept haunted by the memories of the attack the reality of what happened was sinking in and it was hard to process we were grateful to be alive but the fear lingered the next morning we received news that the police had found evidence of The Intruders at

the cabin but hadn't caught them yet we were advised to leave the area and stay somewhere safe Tom and I packed our bags ready to put as much distance as possible between us and the nightmare on the drive back home we barely spoke the experience had shaken us deeply and we knew it would take time to heal we decided to seek counseling to help us cope with the trauma we needed to support each other and rebuild our sense of security as the weeks went by we slowly started to feel more like our ourselves the nightmares

became less frequent and we found comfort in our routines we stayed in close contact with the police who eventually caught The Intruders knowing they were behind bars helped us sleep a little easier our romantic getaway had turned into a terrifying ordeal but we survived the experience brought us closer making us realize how much we meant to each other I decided to take a solo camping trip to clear my mind the stress of work in daily life had been getting to me I picked a remote spot in the woods far from civilization the first day was

peaceful I set up my tent gathered firewood and enjoyed the Solitude as night fell I sat by the campfire listening to the sounds of the forest it was coming until I heard a faint rustling in the bushes I dismissed it as an animal and went to bed the next morning I found footprints around my campsite they were too big to be from an animal my art started to race I tried to convince myself it was another camper but I hadn't seen any anyone else around I decided to stay vigilant throughout the day I explored the

area but tapped close to my Camp as the sun set I gathered more wood for the fire the night was eily quiet around midnight I heard the rustling again this time closer I cracked my flashlight and Shone it towards the noise the light caught a glimpse of a figure darting behind a tree panic set in I shouted asking who was there but got no response I stayed up all night watching and listening by morning I was exhausted I decided to pack up and leave as I was dismantling my tent I noticed something on a nearby

tree it was a small carving fresh and deliberate it looked like an arrow pointing deeper into the woods ignoring it seemed like the best best option I continued packing but the feeling of being watched grew stronger I hurried wanting to get out of there as fast as possible as I was about to leave I found my map missing I searched frantically but couldn't find it someone had taken it with no map I had to rely on memory I started walking back the way I came but the dense forest all looked the same every snap of

a twig made me jump I felt like I was being hurted in a specific Direction then I heard footsteps behind me I broke into a run not daring to look back my heart pounded in my chest and my breath came in gasps I stumbled over roots and branches but I kept going the footsteps seemed to be giving closer in my panic I tripped and fell hard scraping my knees and hands as I lay there trying to catch my breath I saw him a man rugged and unkempt standing a few yards away holding my map he

stared at me with cold calculating eyes I scrambled to my feet and backed away slowly he didn't move just watched me I turned and ran again faster than before I could hear him following his Pace steady and relentless my mind raised trying to think of a way out I spotted a small cave ahead and darted inside hoping he wouldn't see me I crouched in the darkness trying to quiet my breathing minutes felt like hours as I waited I heard him walk past the cave his footsteps Fading Into the distance I stayed hidden for a long

time afraid to move when I finally emerged the sun was setting I needed to find my way back before nightfall I walked cautiously every sound putting me on edge I felt like I was being watched again as Darkness fell I stumbled upon an old abandoned cabin it looked like it hadn't been used in years but it was shelter I decided to hide there for the night inside the cabin was musty and filled with cobwebs I barricaded the door with an old table and sat in a corner clutching a broken piece of wood as a weapon

the silence was oppressive I tried to stay awake but exhaustion took over I woke to the sound of the door creaking open my heart leaped into my throat as I saw the man standing in the doorway his silhouette framed by the Moonlight he stepped inside slowly savoring the fear in my eyes I packed away but there was nowhere to go he spoke in a low gry voice saying he had been watching me since I arrived he enjoyed the aunt my mind raised trying to think of a way out I noticed a small window behind me

it was my only chance I crapped a piece of wood and lunged at him catching him off guard he staggered back and I took the opportunity to dive through the window Clash shattered around me as I hit the CR hard I didn't look back I ran with everything I had my lungs burning my legs feeling like lead I could hear him cursing behind me the forest seemed endless but I pushed on driven by sheer Terror I stumbled upon a stream and followed it hoping it would lead me to safety as Dawn broke I finally saw

signs of civilization a tur Road appeared ahead and I ran towards it I flaged down the first car I saw a kind elderly couple who immediately took me to the nearest police station I was shaken and exhausted but I was safe the police took my statement and assured me they would search the area days later I found out they hadn't found the man the thought that he was still out there haunted me I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched even in the safety of my own home the solo camping trip that was supposed to

bring peace had turned into a nightmare I never went camping alone again the fear stayed with me a constant reminder of how close I came to losing everything my friend and Sarah and I decided to take a summer vacation in Miami we were both excited to enjoy the beach and night life on our second night we went to a popular Club the music was loud and the place was packed we danced and had a few drinks it was fun until I lost sight of Sarah I looked around thinking she might have gone to the bathroom

I texted her but she didn't reply I I waited a while but when she didn't come back I started to worry I asked people if they had seen her but no one had I decided to check outside I stepped into the night air and looked up and down the street there was no sign of her I called her phone but it went straight to voicemail Panic began to set in I went back into the club and searched every corner but she wasn't there I thought about calling the police but it hadn't been that long since

I last saw her I headed back to our hotel hoping she might have gone back when I got there the room was empty her bed was untouched I couldn't sleep I stayed up all night staring at the door hoping she would walk through but she didn't the next morning I went to the police they took my statement and said they would look into it but I could tell they didn't take it seriously people go missing in big cities all the time they said I couldn't just sit and wait I had to do something I started

retracing our steps from the night before I went back to the club and asked more people if they had seen her a bartender remembered her talking to a man but he didn't know anything else I checked with other nearby bars and shops showing them her picture but no one had seen her days went by and there was no word from Sarah I felt helpless and scared I couldn't go back home without her one evening I was sitting in a cafe thinking about what to do next when I overheard a conversation at the next table they

were talking about girls going missing and how it was connected to a human trafficking ring my heart raced as I listened I decided to follow the people talking when they left the cafe they led me to a rundown building in a sketchy part of town I waited outside trying to gather the courage to go in finally I took a deep breath and walked up to the door inside the place was dark and smelled terrible I could hear voices coming from a room down the hall I crept closer and peeped through a crack in the door

there were women inside some crying some looking defeated my stomach turned when I saw Sarah among them I knew I couldn't take them all on my own I needed help I quietly left the building and called the police telling them what I had seen they told me to stay put and that they would send someone I waited my heart pounding afraid someone would notice me it felt like forever before the police arrived they stormed the building and rescued the women including Sarah I ran to her and hugged her tightly she was shaken and scared but

alive the police arrested several men involved in the trafficking ring Sarah told me they had drugged her at the club and taken her while she was unconscious she didn't remember much but she was grateful to be free I stayed by her side as she gave her statement to the police the whole ordeal felt like a night mayor we CAU our vacation short and went back home Sarah needed time to recover and I needed to process everything that had happened the police assured us that the ring was being dismantled and that the people responsible would face

Justice The Experience changed us both we were more cautious and aware of our surroundings I couldn't stop thinking about the other women who might still be out there needing help it haunted me but I was grateful that we had made it out alive Sarah and I remained close our bond strengthened by what we had been through we knew we were lucky to have found each other in time the vacation that had started with excitement ended with a terrifying reality that we would never forget the memories of that night and the days that followed stayed with

me every time I heard about someone going missing it brought back the fear and urgency I had felt I shared our story whenever I could hoping it would help others stay safe life slowly returned to normal but the shadows of that summer vacation lingered we couldn't undo what had happened but we had survived and that was something to hold on to I had just moved into a new neighborhood for the summer the house was nice the area quiet and I was looking forward to a relaxing break my new neighbor Mr Turner lived next door I

didn't think much of him at first he was a bit reserved but that didn't seem unusual over the first few days I noticed some odd things Mr turn Turner was always outside at strange hours he would walk around his yard in the middle of the night and often had his curtains drawn tightly I didn't think much of it until I saw him carrying a large duffel bag into his garage one evening I tried to shrug it off but my curiosity got the better of me the garage was mostly hidden from view by tall bushes so

I couldn't see what was inside I figured I'd keep an eye on things just in case the more I watched the more peculiar his behavior became he had a tendency to offer around the garage often peeking out and looking around as if he was checking to see if anyone was watching one morning while taking out my trash I noticed Mr Turner's garage door slightly a jar I saw a glimpse of something metallic inside I couldn't resist so I walked closer pretending to be busy with my trash I caught sight of a few hands hand guns

and what looked like ammunition boxes I was immediately on edge I knew some people kept weapons but this felt different I went inside trying to think logically my cut was telling me something was wrong I decided to do a bit more digging over the next few days I watched Mr Turner's routine carefully noting the times he left I and when he came back one afternoon when he was away I found a way to get into his garage I couldn't believe what I saw there were several crates of weapons and large bundles of what appeared to

be maps and documents I quickly took a few pictures with my phone before I left as soon as I got back to my house I went through the photos the documents had detailed maps and what looked like plans for some sort of operation it was unsettling I could see lines marked on the maps and notes that mentioned various places in town I had no idea what it meant but it looked Sinister I knew I had to do something but I wasn't sure where to start I was scared but understood that if this was as serious

as it seemed people could be in danger I decided to call the police but I didn't want to sound paranoid I kept it fake saying I was concerned about unusual behavior from my neighbor the police Poli came by but Mr Turner was on his best behavior they didn't find anything out of place and left I felt helpless it seemed like I needed more evidence that night I noticed Mr Turner acting even more strange he seemed agitated and was constantly on the move the next day I saw him loading more items into his car I took

a few more pictures from a distance he drove off and I decided to investigate further I went back to his garage and found more documents and some disturbing things that made it clear he was planning something major I went straight to the police with all my findings this time I showed them everything they took me seriously and said they would investigate further I was anxious and worried I had waited too long a few days later the police returned and told me that they had found EV evidence of illegal activities linked to Mr Turner they had

been able to link him to some criminal organizations they also found out that he had been planning something dangerous they arrested him and the police told me they were working to ensure the safety of everyone in the neighborhood the relief I felt was immense I couldn't believe how close I had come to something truly terrible the neighborhood felt different after that quieter and more relaxed I stayed on high alert for a while just in case the summer continued and though it had started with excitement and promise it ended up being far more eventful than I

had anticipated I learned a lot about being vigilant and the importance of trusting my instincts I never had any more trouble from Mr Turner's side of things and the neighborhood gradually returned to normal I kept in touch with the police who assured me that the threat had been contained looking back I am grateful that I acted on my suspicions it's unsettling to think about what might have happened if I had ignored the signs I had just finished a long day at the beach with friends and decided to catch a ride back to my hotel if

was late and I was exhausted I had no intention of waiting for a taxi so when a car pulled up and the driver offered a ride I gratefully accepted the driver seemed nice enough he was friendly and how welcoming smile he asked me about my day and told me he was just driving home I chatted with him for a bit feeling comfortable enough to let my guard down the conversation was light and he seemed genuinely interested in what I had to say after a few minutes I noticed that the scenery outside was unfamiliar we had

left the main road and were driving down a dark secluded Street my instinct started to kick in I asked the driver if we were going the right way he assured me that it was a shortcut and that we'd be there soon I began to feel uneasy the friendly demeanor of the driver didn't match the creeping sense of dread I was experience experiencing I checked my phone to see if I had lost signal or if there was an app that could help me figure out where I was my phone was almost dead and I had no

way to check the driver's demeanor started to change his smile was gone and he became more distant I tried to stay calm and maintain the conversation hoping it would help distract me from my growing fear I noticed that he wasn't responding much anymore and that he was driving even further into the darkness Panic set in when I realized we were on a deserted Road far from where I needed to be I tried to open the car door but it was locked I asked the driver to pull over claiming I needed to make a call he

didn't respond and the car continued to speed up I was trapped desperation took over I searched for a way to get out I remembered seeing movies where people at Escape moving Vehicles by jumping out but I was terrified of the idea I looked around hoping to find something I could use to defend myself or maybe distract him the driver's Focus was solely on the road I used the opportunity to reach for the door handle again trying to pry it open the handle was stiff but I managed to get it slightly open my heart raced as

I felt the cold air rushing in the driver glanced at me briefly but quickly look back at the road I took a deep breath gathered my courage and made a split-second decision I pushed the door open wider gripping the handle tightly the wind hit my face and I braced myself for the worst with a sudden push I threw myself out of the car rolling onto the gravel and dirt of the road the pain was sharp but adrenaline kept me going I scrambled to my feet looking for cover the driver slammed on the brakes and I

heard him yelling but I didn't look back I ran into the woods next to the road hoping it would hide me from view I kept running my breath coming in like it gasps the darkness of the forest seemed to swallow me up I was disoriented and scared but I forced myself to keep moving I knew I had to find a way to get back to safety eventually I stumbled upon a small house with lights on I knocked frantically on the door a middle-aged couple answered and I explained what had happened they let me in and

called the police for me I was shaking and exhausted but relieved to be out of immediate danger the police arrived soon after and took my statement they said they would look into it but they couldn't guarantee they would catch the driver I was shaken up but grateful to be safe the couple offered to let me stay the night which I gladly accepted the next morning I was able to get a ride back to my hotel the whole experience left me rattled I realized how quickly things could turn dangerous and how important it is to stay

alert I made sure to take extra precautions in the future always double-checking who I was getting into a car with and being more aware of my surroundings the summer continued but I never forgot that night it all started when I decided to run away from home I was 16 and everything felt overwhelming my parents were always fighting and I just couldn't take it anymore I packed a small bag with some clothes and a few personal items then left early one morning while they were still asleep I made my way to the train station my heart

pounding the whole way I planned to catch a train to a nearby City where I thought I could figure things out the train station was crowded and I felt a mix of anxiety and excitement I was free or at least I thought I was that's when I met him he seemed friendly maybe in his late 20s with a warm smile and kind eyes he was sitting on the bench next to where I was waiting and he struck up a conversation he asked where I was headed and if I needed any help I was wary of

first but decided to trust him I was young and scared and he seemed genuine we talked for a while and he told me his name was Mike he said he was going to the same city and offered to share his training took it with me I hesitated but accepted he seemed like someone who genuinely wanted to help and I was too overwhelmed to think clearly when the train arrived he led me to the correct platform everything seemed fine and I felt a little better we got on the train together and found a seat the journey

was long and we talked about everything my plans my hopes and my fears he listened attentively and offered supportive advice after a while I started to notice that his behavior was a bit odd he would occasionally glance around the train car as if he was checking something I brushed it off as paranoia maybe he was just nervous about the journey just like I was halfway through the trip Mike suggested we go to the dining car for a drink I was thirsty and agreed we walked down the narrow Corridor together her it was quieter there and

I started to feel uneasy Mike seemed more focused and intense in the dining car he ordered a drink and offered me one too I wasn't really hungry or thirsty but I took it anyway I noticed that he was watching me closely his demeanor had changed from friendly to something more unsettling I tried to stay calm but my nerves were on edge after we turned to our seats he became even more distant and started asking more personal questions it felt invasive I began to regret accepting his help and wished I hadn't trusted him so easily when

the train approached the next station Mike's behavior escalated he leaned in close and whispered that he had an important message for me I was confused and anxious he said he had arranged a place for me to stay and that it would be safer for me I came with him when we got off the train my heart raced the train pulled into the station and Mike stood up quickly almost too quickly he looked around nervously I knew something was wrong as we stepped off the train he guided me toward a less populated area of the station

my instinct screamed me to get away I made an excuse to go to the restroom and hurried off in the opposite direction I I kept my head down and walked briskly trying to blend in with the crowd I could feel Mike's eyes on me and I was sure he was looking for me in the restroom I tried to calm myself and think I knew I had to get away from him I peaked out and saw him still searching my heart was pounding I decided to use the public phone to call the police I told them

everything and gave them a description of Mike and the train details the police arrived quickly they searched the station and found Mike still looking for me they spoke with him and then came to check on me they said they would take care of him and ensure I was safe I was shaken and exhausted but relieved they gave me a ride to a safe location and helped me contact my parents it was hard to explain everything to them but they were just grateful I was safe that day was a harsh letter in trust and caution I

learned that not everyone who offers help has good intentions it took time to recover from the fear and anxiety but I was grateful for the police and for the chance to go home safely I had always loved the outdoors so I decided to start a business leading Wilderness survival trips this summer I had a group of eight tourists signed up for a week-long adventure in the remote Woods we were all set to spend a week hiking camping and learning survival skills it was supposed to be an enriching experience for everyone the first day went smoothly

the group was enthusiastic and everyone was getting along well we set up camp by a small clearing and I went over the basics of fire making and shelter building everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and I felt a sense of satisfaction seeing them excited to learn on the second day one of the tourists caught my attention his name was Mark he was very quiet and kept to himself I noticed he seemed more interested in observing us than participating at first I thought he was just shy but his behavior started to unsettle me as the days

went by Mark began to show up at odd times he would disappear into the woods alone and return with strange items he wouldn't explain when asked about it he would brush off the questions with fake answers his eyes had a coldness to them that I couldn't ignore I started to worry but I didn't want to alarm the other tourists on the fourth day things took a darker turn turn while we were practicing tracking and foraging Mark disappeared for a long period when he finally returned he looked disheveled and had blood on his clothes I asked

him if he was okay and he claimed it was from a small animal he accidentally injured I wasn't convinced but I let it go thinking it was just my paranoia that night while everyone was sleeping I heard noises outside the tent I unzipped quietly and peaked out I saw Mark walking around the perimeter of the camp with a flashlight scanning the area in a methodical way he wasn't looking for something he was searching for something specific the next morning I confronted him about his behavior he laughed it off and said he was just checking for

wild animals I wanted to believe him but I couldn't shake the feeling that something was very wrong we continued with the trip but the tension was palpable Mark's behavior became increasingly erratic he would stare at the others with an intensity that made everyone uncomfortable I could sense that the group was starting to pick up on the unease and I needed to keep everyone calm and focused by the sixth day we decided to go for a longer hike hoping it would distract us from the growing discomfort Mark was supposed to stay at camp but he insisted

on coming along I hesitated but allowed him to join us worried that confronting him might escalate things during the hike we stopped for lunch by a stream Mark wandered off again and I was growing increasingly concerned I gathered everyone to make sure we stayed together and safe as we ate I noticed that Mark had a strange Bulch under his jacket when he went to the bathroom I saw him placing something in his backpack something metallic after lunch I decided to follow Mark discreetly I trailed him through the woods keeping out of sight he eventually stopped

at a secluded spot and took out what looked like a hunting knife and a rope my heart sank as I realized he was preparing something sinister it was becoming clear that he wasn't just a strange tourist he was a threat I knew I had to act quickly I returned to the group and tried to keep my composure I told them that we needed to head back to Camp immediately and packed up our things as fast as possible I didn't want to panic anyone but I made sure to keep Mark in sight when we got back

to Camp I told everyone we were going to pack up and leave early due to unexpected changes in weather conditions I started Gathering arir trying to appear as calm as possible Mark watched with a strange interest but said nothing as we were packing haing I noticed Mark trying to sneak away with his backpack I confronted him and asked him where he was going he claimed he was just going to get some fresh air but his eyes betrayed his intentions I decided to call for help but our cell service was spotty I used a satellite phone

to contact local authorities and explain the situation they advised me to keep Mark in sight and to stay with the group until Al arrived with a crowing sense of tread I kept everyone together and made sure we stayed in a safe area Mark became increasingly agitated as the hours passed he started making erratic movements and talking to himself I could tell he was losing control finally our Rescue Team arrived they found Mark trying to sneak away from the camp they took him into custody and assured us that we were safe it was a relief but

I was still shaken I didn't realize how close we had come to a terrible situation the authorities later confirmed that Mark had been using the trip as a cover for hunting people he had a history of violent behavior and his plans were much more Sinister than I had imagined I felt a mix of relief and guilt knowing that the trip had almost ended in disaster the rest of the trip was subdued we returned home and everyone was safe I made sure to follow up with the tourists to ensure they were okay I was driving home

from a weekend getaway feeling relaxed after spending a few days out of town it was late afternoon and the sun was beginning to set casting long shadow was over the highway the road was empty and I was looking forward to getting home and unwinding as I was driving I noticed a car pulled over on the side of the road with its hazard lights flashing a man was standing next to it looking around anxiously he was waving his arms and seemed desperate for help I was in a good mood and decided to stop and see if

he needed assistance when I pulled over the man approached my truck he looked relieved to see me and started explaining that his car had broken down and that he had no self-service to call for help his story seemed plausible and I offered to call a tow truck for him he thanked me and said he would really appreciate it if I could just give him a ride to the nearest service station he said it was only a few miles up the road and that he would arrange for a tow from there I agreed and he got

into my truck he seemed nervous but friendly enough as we drove the man started asking me about my plans and what I was doing up there I answered his questions but his behavior seemed increasingly odd he would glance nervously out the window and seemed uncomfortable I tried to stay positive and make small talk but it was clear he was preoccupied we were about halfway to the service station when he suddenly asked me to pull over he said he had forgotten something in his car and needed to cck it quickly I was confused but stopped the

truck he got out and went back to his broken down car I watched him through the rearview mirror as I waited I noticed more movement around his car at first I thought it was just the wind or Shadows playing tricks but then I saw other people approaching from the trees they were dressed in dark clothing and seemed to be carrying something my art started racing as I realized the situation might not be as it seemed the man returned to my truck but now he had a different look on his face he was no longer anxious

but rather had a cold calculating look I started to get a bad feeling and when he got back in the truck he told me to keep driving his tone had changed and it was clear he was no longer interested in a friendly conversation before I could react the people from the trees started moving towards my truck I could see they were carrying crowbars and other tools Panic set in and I realized I was in serious trouble the man next to me quickly turned to face me pulling out a knife he demanded a hand over my

keys and wallet I tried to stay calm and think quickly I knew I had to act fast I pretended to comply handing over my keys and wallet while my mind rised to find an Escape Plan the thieves were closing in and I could see their determined Expressions just as one of them reached the truck I made a split second decision I crapped the gear shift and slammed into reverse the truck lurched backward and the thief stumbled out of the way I could hear shouting and yelling as the others scrambled to react I managed to reverse

the truck back onto the road and then sped off my heart pounding in my chest I glanced in the mirror and saw the thieves running after me but they quickly gave up as I drove away I didn't stop until I reached the nearest police station where I reported the attempted robbery the police took my statement and sent officers to the scene they found the abandoned car and some of the thieves belongings but didn't manage to catch them I was shaken but relieved to be safe The Experience left me worry and more cautious about stopping to

help strangers in the future it was a tough lesson learned but I was grateful for my quick thinking in the fact that I managed to escape unharmed I had decided to go for a jog in the park one evening the weather was perfect and I wanted to clear my mind after a long day the park was pretty big with lots of winding paths and trees it was my favorite place to run because it felt peaceful and safe I started off on my usual route listening to my music and enjoying the fresh air there were a

few other jogers and people walking their dogs but it wasn't too crowded I felt good pushing myself to run a bit faster than usual after about 15 minutes I noticed someone behind me at first I didn't think much of it people often ran in the park but something felt off I glanced over my shoulder and saw a man jocking at a steady Pace not too far behind me he looked ordinary but there was something about the way he was watching me that made me uneasy I tried to ignore it and kept running maybe he was

just going the same way but as I took a few more turns he stayed right back behind me my heart started to race not from the running but from Fear I decided to test my suspicion and took an unusual route one I didn't normally use he followed Panic set in I needed to lose him I picked up my Pace hoping to outrun him but he matched my speed my mind was racing what did he want why was he following me I couldn't think straight just focused on getting away I spotted a fork in the path

up ahead I knew one way LED deeper into the park more secluded while the other led to the main road I took the path to the main road hoping to find more people and possibly some help but he was still there getting closer I could hear his footsteps behind me getting louder my breathing was heavy and my legs were starting to burn I needed a plan up ahead I saw a small wooded area if I could hide there maybe he'd passed by without noticing I darted off the path and into the trees crouching down behind

some bushes I tried to control my breathing listening for his footsteps they slowed down and I heard him walking looking around I prayed he wouldn't find me he stopped right near where I was hiding my heart felt like it was going to explode out of my chest I could see his shoed through the leaves he stood there for what felt like forever then finally moved on I waited a few more minutes making sure he was gone slowly I crept out of my hiding spot and looked around the path was clear I needed to get out

of the park and find help I started jump knocking again but cautiously looking over my shoulder every few seconds I didn't see him but I couldn't shake the feeling that he was still out there somewhere I reached the main road and felt a wave of relief there were more people around and I felt safer I saw a group of joggers and decided to stick close to them I kept running until I reached a convenience store near the park entrance I went inside and told the cashier what it happened he let me use the phone to

call a friend to come pick me up while I waited I couldn't stop thinking about the man why had he followed me what would have happened if he had caught me my friend arrived and I felt a sense of safety wash over me as I got into the car I told her everything on the way home she was as scared as I was and suggested we reported to the police I agreed and we went to the the station to file a report the police took my statement and said they would keep an eye on the

park I didn't know if they would find him but I felt better knowing they were aware of what happened it took me a long time to calm down that night and even longer to feel safe enough to go jogging again for weeks I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched I stopped running in the park and joined a gimm instead every time I saw someone who looked remotely like him my heart would race and I'd feel that same Panic it's been a few months now and I'm slowly starting to feel normal again it was a

warm summer night when I got the call I was sitting on my porch enjoying the quiet when my phone rang the voice on the other end was frantic saying there had been an emergency at the school where I taught they said I needed to come immediately I didn't recognize the voice but in my rush I didn't question it I grabbed my keys and drove to the school the streets were empty and as I pulled into the parking lot I noticed there were no other cars it struck me as odd but I was too worried to

think much of it I got out of my car and headed to the main entrance the doors were unlocked which was unusual for this time of night I stepped inside and called out but there was no answer the Halls were dimly lit and my footsteps echoed as I walked through the building I checked the classrooms one by one but they were all empty my heart started to race as I realized something wasn't right I decided to head to the office to see if anyone was there as I walked I thought I heard footsteps behind me

I turned around quickly but no one was there I reached the office and found it dark and deserted Panic set in I tried to call the number that had contacted me but there was no answer I felt a chill run down my spine I was alone and it was clear that something was very wrong I decided to leave and call the police as I turned to head back down the hall I saw a shadow move out of the corner of my eye I froze my heart pounding the shadow was gone as quickly as it had

appeared but I knew I wasn't imagining things I quickened my Pace trying to stay calm the silence was oppressive and every Creek and grown of the building made me jump I was almost at the door when I heard a soft voice behind me Whispering my name I spun around but again there was no one there fear CED me and I started to run as I reached the main doors I found them locked I pulled and pushed but they wouldn't budge my breath came in short gasps as I looked around for another way out I decided

to head to the gym there was a back door there that led outside as I made my way through the hallways I heard footsteps again this time closer and more deliberate I didn't dare look back I just ran when I reached the gym I found the door slightly ajar relief washed over me as I pushed it open and stepped outside the cool night air hit my face but my relief was shortlived I heard the footsteps again now right behind me I ran across the field towards my car fumbling with my keys I could hear the

footsteps getting closer and closer I reached my car and threw myself inside locking the doors just as a figure appeared in the darkness I couldn't make up their face but they stood there watching me I started the car and peeled out of the parking lot my heart racing as I drove away I glanced in the rearview mirror and saw the figure standing there illuminated by the headlights I drove straight to the police station and told told them everything they took my statement and sent officers to the school but they didn't find anyone the call had

been made from a disposable phone and there were no leads for weeks after that night I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched every time I was alone I felt like someone was there lurking in the shadows I changed my routine always looking over my shoulder eventually the fear started to fade but I never felt completely safe again I still don't know who called me that night or what they wanted but I do know that they had planned to trap me I am grateful I managed to get away but the experience has left me on

edge I woke up to a heavy feeling in my head like I hadn't slept at all my mouth was dry and my eyes felt critty I tried to sit up but something felt off I rubbed my eyes and looked around the small motel room the clock on the nightstand read 2:37 a.m. I remember checking in late exhausted from the drive I just wanted to sleep I stood up and walked to the door but when I tried to open it it wouldn't budge I pulled harder thinking it was stuck but it didn't move I realized then

that it was locked from the outside my heart began to race why would anyone lock me in I checked the windows next they were nailed shut Panic set in I felt trapped like a caged animal I banged on the door shouting for help but no one answered the walls were thin I remembered hearing the TV from the Next Room earlier surely someone would hear me minutes felt like hours I kept banging and shouting but there was no response I looked around the room for something to use something to break the door or Windows there was

a small chair and a bedside lamp but they seemed useless I decided to try my phone maybe I could call for help I searched for it but it was nowhere to be found I clearly remembered leaving it on the nightstand my mind raised with thoughts did someone take it while I was asleep who would do this suddenly I heard a noise outside the door it was faint like someone trying to be quiet I pressed my ear against the door straining to hear there was a shuffling sound and then in silence my breath caught in my

throat someone was out there I backed away from the door my mind racing I needed a plan I grabbed the chair and placed it under the door knob hoping it might slow them down if they tried to come in I took the lamp and smashed it on the floor picking up a Shard of glass for protection the room was eerily silent every Creek and Gro of the old building seemed amp implified I sat on the bed gripping the glass Shard tightly my eyes fixed on the door time seemed to stretch endlessly then the doorknob rattled

I froze my heart pounding in my chest the chair under the knob shook as whoever was outside tried to open the door they pushed harder and the door creaked but didn't open the rattling stopped and there was a low frustrated crawl I heard footsteps moving away from the door I exhaled not realizing I had been holding my breath but the relief was shortlived I knew they would come back I had to find a way out and fast I examined the room again the bathroom door was open and I remembered there was a small window above

the shower it was my only chance I ran to the bathroom and climbed into the tub the window was Tiny But I thought I could squeeze through I pushed at the window but it was stuck I used a Shard of glass to pry at the edges and finally it gave way I pulled myself up and wled through the opening the class scraped my arms but I didn't tear I just needed to get out I fell to the crown outside with a thud the impact knocking the wind out of me I lay there for a moment

gasping for breath the night air was cool against my skin and I felt a moment of relief but I knew I wasn't safe yet I got up and ran Not Looking Back the motel was isolated surrounded by trees in darkness I didn't know where I was going but I had to put as much distance as possible between me and the motel I stumbled through the woods branches scratching my face and arms my heart pounded in my ears and every rustle of leaves made me jump I felt like I was being hunted after what felt like

hours I saw headlights in the distance a road I ran towards it waving my arms frantically a car slowed down and stopped the driver rolled down the window a concerned look on his face I quickly explained my situation and he let me in we drove to the nearest town and I called the police they went to the motel but there was no sign of the person who had locked me in my belongings including my phone were gone I still don't know who did it or why the power went out at around 900 p.m. I had

just finished making dinner and was about to sett down with a book when everything went dark the whole city was out I could see nothing but Pitch Black from my apartment Window I fumbled for my phone to use its flashlight and my heart pounded a bit faster than usual there was something unnerving about the sudden loss of light I found a few candles in a drawer and lit them their flickering light cast strange Shadows on the walls making the room look Eerie I sat on the couch trying to relax the quiet was unnerving too usually

there were sounds from the street people cars but now it was silent a faint sound caught my attention it was a creek like a floorboard shifting I told myself it was just a building settling but it sounded too close I stood up holding my phone out in front of me the light barely pierced the darkness but it was better than nothing I moved slowly towards the sound trying to be as quiet as possible the candles flickered as I passed and the Shadows seemed to dance around me my heart was racing and my mind kept Imagining

the worst as I reached the hallway I heard another noise this time it was a soft thought like something falling onto the carpet I froze straining my ears to hear better there was nothing for a moment and then a shuffle like someone moving quietly I felt a chill run down my spine I wasn't alone someone was in my apartment I packed away slowly trying not to make any noise I needed a weapon something to defend myself I headed to the kitchen where I kept a few knives as I crapped a knife from the drawer I

heard footsteps they were slow and deliberate coming from the direction of my bedroom my breath caught in my throat I needed to stay calm but Panic was Rising inside me I moved to the living room and hid behind the couch the footsteps grew closer and I could see a faint light moving down the hallway it wasn't the flickering light of a candle it it was steady like a flashlight my hands were shaking gripping the knife tightly the light swept into the living room Illuminating the furniture and the walls I could hear my own heartbeat loud

and Fast the Intruder was close I HED my breath trying to make myself as small as possible behind the couch the footsteps stopped and the light paused in the center of the room I could see the shadow of the Intruder on the wall they were tall and moved with a sense of purpose I felt a surge of fear I had to get out of here I slowly crawled towards the back door keeping low to the ground the intruder's light moved again sweeping across the room I reached the door and tried to open it as quietly

as possible the hinges creaked and I froze the light turned towards me and and I knew I had been spotted I bolted running out into the hallway the Intruder was right behind me their footsteps pounding on the floor I ran down the stairs my knife still in hand the building was completely dark and I stumbled several times almost falling I reached the ground floor and burst out the front door the street was just as dark as my apartment but at least I was outside I kept running not daring to look back I could hear the

Intruder behind me their footsteps echoing in the empty streets I turned a corner and hid behind a dumpster trying to catch my breath my heart was racing and I could feel sweat running down my back I listened but I couldn't hear the footsteps anymore maybe I had lost them I stayed there for what felt like an eternity afraid to move the city was still dark and the silence was almost oppressive finally I peaked out from behind the dumpster the street was empty there was no sign of the Intruder I slowly made my way back to

my apartment keeping to the Shadows when I reached my building I looked around carefully before entering I took the stairs back up to my floor my knif still in hand the door to my apartment was open and I could see the faint glow of my candles inside I stepped in cautiously ready for anything but the Intruder was gone I closed the door behind me and locked it my hands still shaking I called the police and they arrived quickly they searched the apartment but found no one the officer said it was likely someone taking advantage of

the blackout to break in but that didn't make me feel any better I knew I wouldn't sleep that night I sat on the couch clutching the knife and listening to every sound the candles burned low casting their Eerie light the power came back on around 3:00 a.m. but I still felt that chill in the air I knew I would never feel safe in my apartment again we were all gathered at the beach celebrating the end of summer the sky was clear the waves gently lapping at the shore and the bonfire crackled warmly as we laughed

and shared stories Matt our host had done a great job organizing the party to were about 20 of us enjoying the night with music drinks and good company as the evening went on a group of people approached our area at first we thought they were just more party goers but something felt off there were six of them and they didn't look like they were there to have fun they walked straight into our Circle not saying anything just looking around with hard Expressions Matt went up to them trying to be polite hey guys this is a

private party can we help you with something one of the men tall and muscular with a shaved head stepped forward and smirked we're just here to join the fun he said his tone menacing I felt a knot tighten in my stomach the tension was palpable The Strangers didn't wait for an invitation they crabbed drinks and made themselves comfortable Matt tried to diffuse the situation offering them food and trying to keep the peace but it was clear these guys were looking for trouble things escalated quickly one of them shoved Matt and he stumbled back his eyes

wide with shock hey there's no need for that he said trying to keep his voice calm the guy who pushed him laughed a harsh sound that sent chills down my spine before we knew it they started picking fights pushing people around and smashing our stuff one of them grabbed a girl named Lisa pulling her close and making crude comments she screamed and her boyfriend tried to intervene only to be punched hard in the face Panic spread through the group some tried to run but The Intruders blocked their way Matt's friend Jake managed to slip away

unnoticed and I HED he was going to get help I stayed close to the bonfire my heart racing looking for anything I could use to defend myself the guy with the shaved head spotted me he cred a predatory look in his eyes and started walking towards me I backed away slowly trying to keep the fire between us he picked up a bottle and smashed it against a rock brandishing the Jagged Edge like a weapon don't make this harder than it needs to be he said his voice low and threatening I glanced around desperate for a

way out my friends were either being held or trying to hide the party atmosphere completely shattered out of the corner of my eye I saw Matt grab a piece of Driftwood he swung at at one of the attackers knocking him to the ground that moment of chaos gave me a chance I crapped a burning piece of wood from the fire and held it out in front of me stay back I shouted my voice shaking the man with the shaved head paused eying the flaming torch wearily you're going to regret this he snarled but he didn't

move closer suddenly there were shouts from the edge of the beach flashlights cut through the darkness and I saw a group of people running towards us Jake had found Help The Intruders hesitated and then realizing they were outnumbered they started to back off let's get out of here one of them yelled they ran off into the night leaving a shaken but alive the newcomer a mix of locals and some off-duty police officers Jake had found helped us calm down and make sure everyone was okay we gathered around the bonfire trying to make sense of what

just happened the police were called and we gave our statements describing the attackers as best we could Matt sat next to me his face bruised but his eyes determined we got through it he said his voice steady despite everything we're safe now the rest of the night was a blur of police lights and worried conversations we packed up our things and left the beach sticking together until we all made it home I was walking home from a late shift at the diner it was a summer evening and the sun had just dipped below The Horizon

I had been working all day and was tired I wanted to get home quickly so I decided to take a shortcut through an alley that I usually avoided after dark the alley was poorly lit with only a few dim street lights casting weak Shadows on the cracked pavement as I walked I tried to ignore the uneasy feeling in my stomach the alley was narrow and the buildings on either side rolled and seemed to close in on me I I could hear the distant hum of traffic and the occasional sound of footsteps echoing off the walls

about halfway through I noticed a group of men standing near the far end of the alley they were talking amongst themselves and seemed to be paying more attention to each other than to me I hoped they would not notice me but as I approached I could see them glance in my direction one of the men broke away from the group and started walking towards me he looked rough and had a sneer on his face I quickened my Pace hoping to pass by them without incident just as I was almost past the man stepped in front

of me and blocked my way he was tall and built and there was something intimidating about him hey there he said in a Gruff voice where are you headed I try to stay calm and polite just on my way home I'm in a hurry the man smirked in called over his friends they began to Surround Me closing off any chance of Escape my heart started to race I knew I had to think quickly they didn't seem to have good intentions and their expressions grew more menacing as they gathered around one of the men reached into

his jacket and I noticed a glint of metal I couldn't tell if it was a weapon but it made me even more anxious I decided to act fast I needed to create a distraction or find a way to get out of this situation look I don't want any trouble I said trying to sound as sincere as possible I just need to get home can you please let me pass the man who had initially blocked me seemed to be the leader he crossed his arms and shook his head you think you can just walk away we

have other plans my mind as I searched for a way out I spotted a fire escape ladder attached to one of the buildings it was Rusty but looked like it might be usable I had to get their attention away from me and make a break for it in a split-second decision I took a deep breath and shouted hey what's that over there I pointed toward a dumpster at the other end of the alley the men turned their heads and I seized a moment I started toward the fire escape ladder grabbing hold of it and climbing

as fast as I could I could hear the men yelling behind me but I didn't stop my heart pounded as I scrambled up the ladder when I reached the top I could see the rooftops of the buildings around me I needed to find a way down quickly I noticed a skylight on the roof and hoped it led to a building with an exit I PRI the Skylight open and climbed through Landing inside a dark room I took a moment to catch my breath and listen I could hear muffled voices and footsteps outside but they seemed

to be moving away I wasn't safe yet but I had bought myself some time I carefully made my way through the building finding a stairwell and heading down to the ground floor as I reached the street I looked around to make sure no one was following me the alley was now quiet and the men seemed to have laughed I walked briskly to the nearest public place a 24-hour convenience store I went inside and asked to use their phone to call for a tab I was shaken but I managed to get home safely once I was

back I reported the incident to the police they took my statement and said they would look into it I never heard anything more about it but I made sure to avoid that alley in the future I was home alone with my 2-year-old son Liam my husband had left for a business trip that morning and it was just the two of us for the weekend the day had gone smoothly I fed Liam played with him and put him down for his nap after he woke up up we had dinner and then I put into bed the

house was quiet except for the usual creeks and groans of an old building settling for the night it was around 900 p.m. when I first heard the noise it was a faint sound like something being dragged across the floor coming from the basement I tried to ignore it thinking it was just my imagination but the noise came again louder this time my heart started to race I decided to check it out hoping it was nothing I grabbed a flashlight and headed to the basement door as I opened it the creaking sound seemed to Echo throughout

the house I stood at the top of the stairs shining the flashlight down into the darkness everything looked normal but the unsettling feeling in my stomach didn't go away I slowly descended the stairs trying to make as little noise as possible while reached the bottom I scanned the room with a flashlight the basement was cluttered with old furniture boxes and tools I didn't see anything out of place I started to convince myself that it was just out settling when I heard a soft thud behind me I whipped around the flashlight being trembling in my hand

standing at the far end of the basement was a man he was dressed in dark clothes his face partially covered by a hood he stared at me not moving my blood ran cold I felt like I couldn't breathe I backed up slowly my mind racing my first thought was of Liam upstairs asleep in his crib the man took a step towards me I turned and bolted up the stairs slamming the basement door behind me I locked it and grabbed my phone to call the police but my hands were shaking so badly I could barely dial

I told the operator about the Intruder and they said officers were on their way I ran to Liam's room scooping him up from his crib he stirred and whimpered but didn't wake up fully I clutched him to my chest trying to think of what to do next I could hear the man banging on the basement door trying to break it down my heart pounded in my ears I went into the bathroom locking the door behind us I set Liam down in the bathtub wrapping him in a blanket to keep him quiet and safe I grabbed

a heavy object a Mel tow rack to defend myself if necessary the banging on the basement door stopped I listened intently trying to hear any movement then I heard Footsteps in the hallway he had found another way in I held my breath praying he wouldn't find us the footsteps grew closer and I could see his shadow under the bathroom door he tried the door knob and when it didn't budge he started pounding on the door I whispered to Liam telling him to stay quiet the door began to splinter under the force of his blows I

raised the towel rack ready to defend my son the door burst open and the man stepped in he looked around spotting Us in the bathtub he smiled a cruel menacing grin just as he took a step towards us I swung the towel rack with all my might it hit him in the side of the head and he stumbled back cursing I didn't wait for him to recover I crapped Liam and ran past him down the hallway and out the front door I could hear him yelling behind us but I didn't look back we made it

to the front yard just as the police arrived they stormed into the house and I collapsed on the grass clutching Liam tightly he was crying now and I tried to comfort him my own tears streaming down my face the officers quickly subdued the Intruder and took him away in handcuffs an officer stayed with us while others searched the ow to make sure it was safe I couldn't stop shaking even when they assured me that the man was in custody I held leam close grateful that we were both safe it was the most terrifying experience of

my life one that I would never forget I need to share what happened during our family vacation it started off as a regular trip to a remote town happen we had rented for the summer it was supposed to be a peaceful getaway but it quickly turned into a nightmare we arrived at the cabin in the early afternoon it was isolated surrounded by thick Woods the place was Charming with its rustic look and the view of the lake was beautiful my wife Sarah and our two kids Lily and Jake were excited we unloaded the car and

settled in the first couple of days were great we hiked fished and spent evenings by the campfire everything seemed perfect until I noticed something odd it was on the third night I had gone out to check the grill because the kids wanted to roast marshmallows as I walked around the cabin I saw something unusual there was a small dark spot on one of the Trees close to the cabin it looked like someone had scratched the bark I thought nothing of it I assumed it was just a stray mark from a previous renter or perhaps an

animal later that night I heard a noise outside it was a faint rustling sound I went outside with a flashlight but found nothing I shreded it off as the wind or an animal I didn't mention it to Sarah I didn't want to worry her the next morning I saw more marks on the trees they were fresh and the scratches seemed to be forming a pattern almost like an arrow pointing towards the cabin this unsettled me but I didn't want to alarm my family I decided to keep an eye on things that night while everyone was

asleep I heard the sound again this time it was closer I crapped the flashlight and went outside I looked around the cabin and noticed something in the shadows a figure darting between the trees my heart raced but I couldn't see clearly enough to make out who it was I went back inside and locked all the doors and windows I decided to wait and see if anything else happened I felt like someone was watching us the following day I found more signs of disturbance it looked like someone had been near the cabin during the night I

told Sarah about my concerns she was worried but thought it was just my imagination I couldn't blame her for thinking that I tried to stay calm for the sake of the kids we decided to go for a hike to distract ourselves during the hike I noticed a man watching us from a distance he was dressed in dark clothes and appeared to be hiding behind some trees I pointed him out to Sarah but by the time we got closer he was gone Sarah thought it might be a fellow hiker but wasn't convinced that night I heard

footsteps around the cabin they were slow and deliberate I woke Sarah and told her to stay quiet I took a peek outside and saw the same figure again closer to the cabin this time I was terrified and didn't know what to do the next morning I found that someone had tampered with the cabin's porch lights the bulbs were unscrewed this made me even more anxious I decided we should leave immediately but Sarah insisted on staying one more night since we had already paid for the week that night the situation escalated I heard the footsteps again

but this time they were louder and more aggressive I saw the figure clearly through a gap in the curtains it was a man with a rough face wearing a mask I couldn't take any chances I woke Sarah and told her we had to leave we packed as quickly as possible as we were loading the car I saw the man emerging from the woods he was carrying what looked like a crowbar I told Sarah to get the kids in the car while I tried to confront the man I grabbed a baseball bat from the trunk as

I approached the man he ran back into the woods I didn't pursue him but made sure everyone was safe inside the car we drove straight to the nearest town and stayed in a motel for the night the next day I reported the incident to the local police they took our statement and said they would look into it but they couldn't offer much help since there was no clear evidence of the man's identity the police never found out who the man was but we were able to get a refund for the remaining days at the cabin

we went home early and never returned to that cabin The Experience left us all shaken and I couldn't stop thinking about what might have happened if we hadn't left when we did I still get anxious when we go on vacation always checking and double-checking our accommodations the memory of that summer and the feeling of being watched will always haunt me I was working working the night shift at the gas station it was a quiet night the kind I liked only a few customers had come in and I was mostly just keeping myself busy stocking shelves

and cleaning up the H of the fluorescent lights and the occasional buzz from the refrigerator were the only sounds in the store it was almost midnight and I was looking forward to the end of my shift I was behind the counter when I saw two men walk in they look normal enough at first just customers coming in late but something about them made me uneasy they were both wearing dark clothes and one of them had a baseball cap pulled low over his face the other had H up they didn't head for the aisles they came

straight toward the counter before I could react the man in the cap pulled out a gun he pointed it right at me and told me to be quiet and do exactly what he said my heart started ring Ing and I could feel sweat on my forehead I nodded trying to stay calm the other man went to the door and flipped the sign to closed then locked it we were trapped the man with the gun told me to empty the register into a bag my hands were shaking so much it was hard to do I kept

glancing at the gun afraid he might shoot if I move too slow I finally got the money into the bag and handed it to him he snatched it away and told me to get down on the floor I did as he said lying face down behind the counter I could hear them talking in low voices but I couldn't make out what they were saying I thought about pressing the silent alarm under the counter but I was too scared they would see me the one with the came over and started tying my hands behind my back

with zip ties he did the same to my feet they left me there and started going through the store grabbing things off the shelves and stuffing them into bags I could hear them laughing and joking like this was just another night for them I tried to stay calm and think of a way out I knew I had to keep my wits about me if I was going to survive this after what felt like hours but was probably only minutes they dragged me out from behind the counter they sat me in one of the chairs by

the window where customers usually sat to eat their snacks and drink their coffee the one with the gun sat across from me still pointing it at me the other one kept rifling through the store I kept thinking about the silent alarm if I could just get to it the police would come but every time I shifted in my seat the man with the gun would tell me to stay still he looked nervous his eyes stting around the store I knew that nervousness could make him dangerous so suddenly there was a knock on the door A

young couple was outside looking confused by the closed sign the man with the gun cursed under his breath and motioned for me to stay quiet the other man went to the door and told the couple the store was closed for the night they looked disappointed but didn't argue and walked away the distraction gave me an idea I told the man with the gun that I needed to use the bathroom he looked annoyed but didn't want me making a mess in the store he called his partner over and told him to watch Me While he kept

guard they cut the zip ties on my feet and led me to the bathroom at the back of the store once inside I pretended to struggle with the zip ties on my hands I asked the man to help me he seemed irritated but leaned in to cut them off as soon as my hands were free I shoved him as hard as I could into the wall and ran out of the bathroom I heard him yell but I didn't look back I sprinted to the counter and hit the silent alarm button the man with the gun

realized what I had done and started shouting he fired a shot but it missed and shattered a bottle of soda behind me I ducked behind the counter my heart pounding the police were on their way but I knew it would take a few minutes for them to get there the men started to panic they crapped their bags and tried to make a run for it I stayed hidden praying they wouldn't come back for me I could hear sirens in the distance getting closer the men made a break for the back door just as the police

arrived I stayed down too scared to move until I heard the police shouting and the men being taken down an officer came into the store and found me behind the counter still shaking he helped me up and took me outside it was over the police arrested the men and took my statement they told me I was Brave for hitting the alarm but I didn't feel Brave I was just glad it was over and then I was alive my boss came to the store and he thanked me for what I did but all I could think

about was how close I had come to not making it out that night changed me I still worked at the store but I was always on edge always looking over my shoulder I was delivering food for a local restaurant it was summer and the heat was intense I had a lot of orders that day and I was just trying to get through them all I got an order for an apartment complex on the other side of town it was one of those older buildings that looked like it hadn't been updated in decades the kind with

cracked walls and broken lights in the hallway I found the apartment number easily enough when I knocked on the door it took a moment for someone to answer a tall guy with tattoos opened the door looking at me with suspicion he asked if I had the food and I nodded holding up the bag he stepped aside to let me in saying something about how he needed to get the money from his friend inside as soon as I stepped into the apartment I knew something was off there were three other men in the living room sitting

around a table covered with small bags of white powder one of them was counting money the air was thick with tension they all looked up at me and the room went silent the guy who led me and closed the door behind me and locked it my heart started pounding I realized I had walked into a drug deal the men stared at me and I could see the fear and suspicion in their eyes one of them a man with a scar on his cheek stood up and walked towards me he asked who I was and why

I was there I explained quickly showing them the bag of food and telling them I was just a delivery person the scarred man snatched the bag from me and dumped the contents on the table he didn't seem interested in the food at all he looked at his friends and said something in a low voice I couldn't make up the words but I knew they were deciding what to do with me I felt trapped and my mind raced trying to figure out how to get out of there the man with a scar told me to sit

down I did as he said my leg shaking they started asking me questions how I found the place if I told anyone I was coming if anyone was expecting me back soon I tried to stay calm and answer them without giving them a reason to hurt me one of the men suggested that they couldn't let me leave he said I had seen too much the others nodded in agreement my heart sank I had to think of something fast I told them that I hadn't seen anything that I didn't care about what they were doing and

I just wanted to leave they didn't look convinced the scard man leaning close his face just inches from mine he said that they couldn't take any chances I felt Panic rising in my chest I had to get out of there I noticed the door to the kitchen was open and there was a window in there it was a long shot but it was my only chance I took a deep breath and then with all the strength I could muster I shoved the scar man away from me and bolted for the kitchen the men shout shouted

and scrambled to stop me I reached the kitchen and saw the window was partially open I yanked it up and started to climb through just as I was halfway out I felt hands grabbing my legs trying to pull me back in I kicked and thrashed managing to break free I fell to the CR outside scraping my arms and legs I didn't stop to look back I got up and land as fast as I could I heard the men shouting behind me but I didn't stop I ran down the alley behind the building my heart pounding

in my chest I didn't know where I was going I just knew I had to get away I kept running until I reached a busy street I looked around trying to figure out where I was I saw a convenience store and ran inside I told the clerk to call the police that I was in danger he looked at me like I was crazy but he made the call I stayed there hiding behind the counter until the police arrived when they got there I told them everything that happened they took my statement and promised to look

into it I never went back to that part of town again I quit my job at the restaurant the next day it was a sweltering summer evening when I decided to head to the parking garage after finishing up some errands downtown I was tired but still had a bit of shopping to do so I parked my car and started walking towards the entrance of the garage it was one of those old structures with narrow aisles and dim lighting the kind that always feels a bit too quiet as I was walking down the ramp I noticed

a commotion near the back of the garage I stopped and squinted trying to make out what was happening there were three men surrounding another guy who looked like he was pleading with them my heart skipped a beat it didn't look like a friendly conversation I was about to turn around and go back to my car when I saw one of the men grab the other guy and slam him against the wall the victim was struggling and I could see that they were trying to take something from him I knew I had to do something but

I was torn between wanting to help and worrying about my own safety I decided to step in hoping to break things up before it got worse I walked up to them and tried to sound as calm and confident as I could I told them to back off and leave the guy alone the three men turned and looked at me they didn't seem pleased one of them a Burly man with a tattoo on his arm took a step towards me me and said something that sounded threatening I told them again to stop and called 911 on

my phone hoping that the sight of me dialing would make them reconsider their actions they seemed to be more annoyed than scared one of them the one who had been holding the victim pulled out a knife and waved it in my direction I felt a rush of fear but tried to stay calm the man with the knife started shouting at me telling me to mind my own business I realized that that if I stayed I could be in real danger I quickly ended the call said I was going to call the police again and turned

to leave as I walked away I could hear them shouting behind me I knew they wouldn't just let me go easily I made it to my car and tried to lock the doors but my hands were shaking so badly that I had trouble with the key I finally managed to get inside and started the engine as I was about to drive away I saw the three men running towards the entrance of the garage they were clearly looking for me I sped out of the parking garage my art racing I knew I needed to get somewhere

safe and Report what I had seen I drove to the nearest police station which was a few miles away on the way I kept checking my mirrors paranoid that they might be following me when I got to the police station I ran inside and explained what what had happened the officers took my statement and said they would send someone to check out the garage they seemed to take it seriously but I still felt anxious the whole time I was there I kept looking out the windows half expecting to see those men coming after me after

giving my statement I left the station and drove home I stayed alert checking my surroundings every few minutes I even changed my route a couple of times to make sure I wasn't being followed when I finally got home I locked all the doors and windows and felt a wave of relief the whole experience left me shaking I kept thinking about the man who was being attacked and hoped that the police were able to help him I couldn't stop replaying the events in my mind wondering if I had made things worse by intervening for the next

few days I stayed on edge constantly checking to make sure no one was lurking around my apartment I didn't see any signs of those men but I couldn't shake the feeling of unease I was scared to go out alone and try to stay in wallet areas whenever I did eventually I had learned from the police that they had apprehended the men and that the victim was safe I was relieved but still troubled by the whole ordeal it took me a while to feel comfortable going out again and even now I am more cautious about intervening

in situations like that the summer heat seemed to linger even after the incident and every time I went near a parking garage I felt a shiver run down my spine I had been looking forward to the owl's party for weeks it was supposed to be a fun summer get together with old friends and some new faces to h a guy named Mark had been a friend from college and when he invited me I was excited to catch up the party was a large house on the outskirts of town it had a nice spacious backyard and

a pool when I arrived the atmosphere was Lively people were chatting drinking and enjoying the music I quickly found my friends enjoying them but something felt off around an hour into the party I noticed a small group of people who seemed to be acting a bit differently from the rest they were standing off to the side talking in hush tones their behavior made me uneasy but I Shrugged it off as just being a different group of friends as the evening went on things started to get more strange I saw one of the quiet group members

a tall guy with a scruffy beard disappear into the kitchen with Mark I could hear them talking loudly but the words were were too muffled to make out my curiosity got the better of me so I quietly followed them I crept up to the kitchen and peered around the corner I saw Mark and the tall guy discussing something in low voices Mark handed him a small bag and the tall guy nodded and left the room I couldn't make out what was in the bag but it didn't look like something you'd see at a party my

anxiety grew I decided to stay close not wanting to get too involved but needing to understand what was happening I moved back to the main area and tried to enjoy the party but I kept an eye on Mark and the tall guy later I noticed that Mark seemed more agitated he was talking to a few more people from the quiet group and they were glancing around as if making sure no one was listening Micah told me that something was definitely not right I started feeling a bit trapped the place was crowded and the exits were

somewhat blocked by people I tried to act normal but my mind was racing I needed to find out more and get out of there before things escalated I made my way outside to get some fresh air the backyard was quieter with only a few people around as I stood by the pool I saw the tall guy again but this time he was with another person I hadn't seen before they were having a heated conversation and the talk I seemed very agitated I overheard Snippets of their conversation words like shipment and deal were thrown around my

heart started pounding it was clear they were discussing something illegal and it was happening right under everyone's noses I realized I needed to leave before things got any worse I made my way to the front of the house hoping to slip out unnoticed just as I was about to open open the door I felt a hand on my shoulder it was Mark he looked nervous and asked me if everything was okay I tried to stay calm and said I just needed some fresh air mark seemed to hesitate but eventually let me go I stepped out

into the night but my relief was shortlived as I walked to my car I saw the tala watching me from the driveway I Quicken my pace and fumbled with my car teas my hands were shaking so much that I could barely unlock the door I could feel the tall gu's gaze on me and it made my skin crawl I finally managed to get into my car and start the engine as I drove away I glanced in the rearview mirror and saw the tall guy and a couple of others from the quiet group standing by the

driveway watching me my heart raced and I drove as fast as I could making sure I wasn't followed once I was back on familiar roads I felt a bit safer but still very shaken I couldn't shake the feeling that I had narrowly escaped a dangerous situation when I got home I locked all the doors and made sure all the windows were secure I reported the incident to the police but they couldn't do much without more concrete evidence I never went back to any parties at Mark's place again the whole night had left me on edge

and I stayed cautious about any similar more gatherings in the future I had been driving through the desert for hours heading back from a weekend getaway the road stretched out in front of me with only the occasional flicker of distant lights and the fast Darkness surrounding me it was around midnight I noticed a car behind me that seemed to be following too closely at first I thought it was just my imagination I could see the headlights in my rearview mirror but it was hard to judge if they were too close the road was empty and

there was no other traffic around I tried to focus on the road ahead but the feeling of being watched was unsettling after a while I realized that the car behind me wasn't just following it was tailgating me aggressively every time I changed lanes or adjusted my speed the car did the same it was clear now that the driver had malicious intent my heartbeat can't race I tried to shake them off by speeding up but the car behind me tapped up effortlessly the headlights were blinding in my rearview mirror and I could barely see the road

I was beginning to panic there were no exits or towns around it was just miles of empty highway I took a deep breath and tried to think I decided to make a sudden turn off the main road hoping to lose them on one of the smaller dirt roads I turned sharply into a narrow path that seemed to lead into the desert the car behind me followed without hesitation the dirt road was bumpy and uneven I could hear the gravel crunching beneath the tires and the headlights of the pursuing car were still visible in the distance

my attempts to lose them were feudal the car behind me was relentless I needed to find a way to get out of this situation I saw a small isolated building in the distance it looked like an old maintenance Shack or something similar I pulled up close to it and turned off my headlights I ducked down in my seat and tried to make myself as small as possible my breath felt heavy and I could hear my own heartbeat in my ears the pursuing car slowed down and stopped nearby I could see the headlights through the gaps

in the building's walls my mind raised trying to come up with a plan I knew I couldn't stay there for long I had to do something to get away I Waited For What felt like an eternity trying to stay as quiet as possible the car seemed to be idling outside and I could see shadowy figures moving around it was clear that they were looking for me I had to find a way to get back to the highway and seek help when I felt it was safe I quietly started my car and drove away from the

building I stayed off the main road keeping to the darker paths and trying to stay hidden the headlights of the pursuing car were still visible in the distance but they seemed to be fading as I continued to drive eventually I reached a more populated area where I could see a few scattered lights in the distance I pulled into a gas station that was still open hoping that the presence of other people would discourage the car from continuing its Pursuit I went inside and the cashier noticed my distressed State I explained the situation and they called

the police for me I stayed at the gas station until the authorities arrived when they checked the area they didn't find any sign of the car that had been following me I was relieved but still shaken the police advised me to be cautious and to avoid driving alone late at night especially in isolated areas I took their advice seriously and made sure to stay aware of my surroundings in the future that night in the desert was one of the scariest experiences of my life the fear of being pursued by someone with unknown intentions was overwhelming

I had booked a last minute stay at a hotel in a small town for a relaxing summer break I needed some time away from my hectic schedule and this place looked perfect for a quiet getaway the hotel was old but Charming with vintage decor and a cozy atmosphere I arrived late in the afternoon and checked in without any issues the front desk clerk a young woman with a kind smile handed me the key to my room and gave me directions I was tired from the drive so I had it straight to my room eager to

unwind everything seemed normal until I noticed a group of men loitering near the lobby they were dressed in dark clothes and kept glancing towards me as I walked past it felt a bit odd but I brushed it off as I settled into my room I heard muffled voices in the hallway and the sound of heavy footsteps it was odd but I tried to ignore it I was in the middle of reading a book when there was a knock on my door I wasn't expecting anyone so I hesitated before opening it when I peeed through the

peep Hall I saw two men in suits Standing Outside they looked serious and seemed impatient I opened the door cautiously and one of the men introduced himself as a detective he said there had going a mix up with the hotel booking and asked if he could come in to ask a few questions I was taken aback but let them in hoping it was just a routine check they started asking questions about my background my reason for visiting and my plans while I was in town I answered everything truthfully thinking it was just standard procedure but

their questions seemed to dealt deeper and felt oddly intrusive the men seemed unsatisfied with my answers and started looking around my room I began to feel uneasy one of them even asked if I had been in contact with anyone unusual I had no idea what they were talking about when I tried to ask what this was about they avoided giving a clear answer they only said there had been some confusion and that they needed to check something the whole situation felt wrong and I started to get anxious the detective's demeanor was intimidating and I felt

trapped after they left I tried to call the hotel manager to get some clarity but the line was busy I decided to go downstairs to see if I could find out more cobby was eily quiet and the front desk clerk was nowhere to be found the group of men I had seen earlier was now gathered around a corner talking quietly I tried to approach them but they quickly dispersed when they saw me coming I felt more uneasy than ever I knew I had to get out of the hotel and find a safe place but I

didn't know who to trust I decided to leave and find a nearby police station to explain what was happening as I walked towards the exit I noticed a man following me he was trying to stay hidden but I could see him in the reflection of the glass doors my heart raced I quickened my Pace hoping to lose him I reached the parking lot and saw my car but I hesitated if the man was working with the detectives I wouldn't be safe there I looked around and saw a small Diner across the street I headed there

hoping to find some help or at least get away from the hotel inside the diner I explained my situation to the waitress and asked to use the phone she let me use the phone in the back room I managed to get through to the local police and explained everything they said they would send someone over to the diner to help me while waiting I stayed inside the diner trying to stay calm when the police arrived they took my statement and assured me they would look into the situation they contacted the hotel and the supposed detectives

it turned out that the men were not real detectives but imposters involved in a criminal scheme they had been using the hotel as a front to look for people to intimidate and Co the real police were able to secure the hotel and arrest the imposters I was relieved but shaken by the whole experience the hotel manager apologized for the mixup and offered to move me to a different room but I declined I packed up my things and checked out as soon as I could the local police gave me a safe route out of town and

advised me to report any further suspicious activity I drove back home feeling a mix of relief and unease The Experience had been terrifying and it took me a while to shake off the anxiety I was on vacation in a rented Cabin in the Woods looking forward to a peaceful summer getaway the cabin was remote but charming and I I planned to spend my days hiking and my nights relaxing it was supposed to be a break from my busy life but things took a turn for the worst one night it was around midnight when I was

woken up by a loud knock on the cabin door I was startled as I hadn't expected any visitors especially at this hour I checked the time on my phone it was well past midnight I hesitated not sure if I should answer I had read about about incidents where people were lured into danger with late night knocks the knocking persisted louder and more urgent I slowly got out of bed my heart pounding I crapped a flashlight and checked through the peep Hall I saw a man standing on the porch looking disheveled and frightened he was pacing

back and forth glancing nervously over his shoulder I opened the door a crack and asked him what was wrong the man quickly pushed the door open lider and stepped inside he was visibly shaking and said he had been chased by some dangerous people his story was incoherent at first but I caught bits and pieces about a car following him and threats made by unknown individuals I felt a surge of fear the situation felt off who were these people chasing him why did he choose my cabin I wanted to help but I also didn't want to

put myself in danger I tried to stay calm and asked him for more details about what had happened he explained that he had been driving in noticed a car following him the car started tailing him aggressively and he had taken a few turns to try and lose them he said he had driven for Miles eventually finding my cabin by chance his story seemed plausible but I was still on edge I could feel the weight of the decision I had to make I could let him stay which might put me at risk if the people were

really after him or I could send him away in risk him being in danger I decided to call the police I told them what had happened and provided them with the details The Stranger had given me the dispatcher on the other end assured me they would send someone to check things out I felt a bit better knowing that help was on the way while waiting for the police to arrive I made the stranger sit in the living room while I kept a close eye on him from a distance he looked exhausted and scared he repeatedly

thanked me for letting him in saying he didn't know what he would have done if he had to keep running the knocking started again but this time it was more forceful I went to the door looked through the peephole and saw two men standing outside they looked like they meant business I felt a rush of panic and moved away from the door I told the stranger what I saw and asked him to stay hidden I crapped a phone and quietly dialed the police again letting them know about the new development I could hear the men

outside talking but I couldn't make out what they were saying I felt trapped my mind raised with thoughts of what might happen next the police arrived not long after and I quickly opened the door for them they took in the scene and began questioning the stranger they seemed to be taking his story seriously they also spoke with the men who were now standing outside trying to make sense of the situation the police talked to the men and then came inside to speak with me they confirmed that the men outside were indeed looking for the stranger

but they were not from any official agency they were involved in some kind of illegal activity and had been trying to intimidate The Stranger into silence I was relieved to hear that the situation was under control the police escorted the men away and assured me they would keep an eye out for any further trouble they also took a statement from me and the stranger then left to continue their investigation with the immediate danger gone I finally let myself relax The Stranger thanked me profusely and left the cabin under police protection I felt a mix of

relief and exhaustion the night had been incredibly stressful and I I was glad it had ended safely the rest of my vacation was uneventful and I stayed alert just in case I learned to be more cautious and to trust my instincts even though the situation was scary I was glad I had made the right choices and managed to keep myself and the stranger safe I was on a solo vacation in Miami finally taking a break from work I had booked a room at a small hotel right on the beach hoping for some rest and relaxation

everything seemed perfect when I arrived Sunshine sand and a few that made the long drive worthwhile when I checked in the receptionist gave me my key and directed me to my room as I made my way to the elevator I noticed a man standing outside a room with a suitcase I assumed he was waiting for someone or maybe just checking in I got to my room opened the door and was greeted by the familiar smell of hotel cleaning products I unpacked my bags and settled in for a quiet evening just as I was about to

unwind I heard a knock on my door it was the same man I had seen earlier he introduced himself as Jason and told me there had been a mixup with the booking system it turned out that my room had been double booked I was surprised but didn't think much of it the hotel staff had already arranged for Jason to be moved to another room he said he was just waiting for the new room to be ready and asked if he could hang out in mine until then I agreed thinking it was a minor inconvenience and

that he seemed harmless enough we chatted briefly and he told me he was in town for a conference after about an hour Jason's room was ready he thanked me and laughed I locked my door behind him and felt relieved that the situation was resolved that night I heard some noise outside my room but dismissed it as people coming in late from the beach I was exhausted and fell asleep quickly around midnight I was jolted awake by a loud bang my heart raced as I listened for any signs of trouble I heard Footsteps in the hallway

and then a soft knock on my door I peered through the peephole and saw Jason standing there I was confused I opened the door slightly and asked if everything was all right he said he had forgotten something in my room and needed to come in to get it I hesitated but eventually let him in he looked nervous and his demeanor had changed since earlier he started looking around the room and seemed agitated he told me he had misplaced some important documents and was getting anxious I tried to comment down and suggested we call the hotel

staff for help Jason snapped at me saying he couldn't afford any delays his voice was suddenly harsh and I could see a different side of him that made me uneasy I wanted to ask him to leave but didn't want to provoke him as he continued to search the room I noticed his behavior becoming increasingly erratic he started pacing and muttering to himself my instinct told me something was off and I felt a growing sense of danger I decided it was time to get him out of my room I told him I needed to use the

bathroom and asked him to wait outside I slipped into the bathroom locked the door and quickly called the hotel front desk I explained the situation and asked for help the receptionist assured me they would send someone up right away while I was on the phone I heard Jason trying to open the bathroom door his knocking turned into pounding and I could hear him yelling my heart pounded as I realized he was trying to force his way in I stayed silent and listened for any sounds of movement outside I could hear footsteps approaching my room and

then the sound of the door opening the hotel staff had arrived and Jason's yelling grew louder before it abruptly stopped after what felt like an eternity there was a knock on the bathroom door it was one of the hotel staff asking if I was all right I opened the door and quickly explained what had happened they assured me that Jason had been restrained and that the police were on their way the police arrived shortly after and took Jason into custody he was charged with several offenses including her harassment and trespassing the hotel staff apologized for

the mixup and offered to move me to a different room for the remainder of my stay the rest of the vacation was uneventful but the incident left me shaking I was grateful for the quick response of the hotel staff and the police I learned to trust my instincts and be more cautious especially when dealing with strangers despite the scary experience I managed to enjoy the rest of my trip focusing on the beautiful beach and the relaxation I had initially sought the hotel staff were supportive and I felt safe once the situation was resolved I rented

a cabin by a lake to work on my novel the place was quiet perfect 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 trapo it took some effort to pry it open but I managed below was a small dark room I used my phone's flashlight to look around there were old dusty boxes and a table with a few paper scattered on it I climbed down and started going through the boxes most of them had old clothes and books but one had photos F 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 in the photos they talked about debts 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 listen 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 Lo 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 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 and H 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 washed 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 h 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 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 alive I'm more cautious now but I still love writing I just do it from the safety of my apartment I was waiting for the last train

home it was late and the platform was almost empty just a few people scattered around I tried to keep to myself but I noticed a man standing a bit further down still staring at me I pushed it off at first thinking he might just be zoning out or looking at something behind me but his eyes never moved the train finally arrived and I hurried to get on I picked an empty car hoping for some peace and quiet as I settled into a seat by the window I saw him get on the same car out of

all the empty seats he chose the one directly across from me I felt a chill run down on my spine I tried to focus on my phone scrolling mindlessly through social media but I could feel his eyes on me every time I glanced up he was staring unblinking my heart started to race and I thought about moving to another car but I didn't want to seem paranoid or rude maybe it was just a coincidence I told myself but then he started talking late night for you too his voice was low and lpy I nodded not

really wanting to engage he leaned forward his eyes never leaving mine you shouldn't be out this late it's not safe for someone like you I didn't respond I just stared at my phone praying he'd get the hint and leave me alone but he didn't he kept talking asking where I was going if I lived alone why I did for work his questions were invasive and made me uncomfortable I answered as briefly as possible hoping he'd get bored and stop the train moved through each station and no one else got on it was just me and

him I considered getting off at the next stop and waiting for another train but I didn't want to be stuck on an empty platform with him I decided to stay put and get off at my usual stop he seemed to sense my discomfort and lean back back still staring I tried to think of ways to distract myself but nothing worked my thoughts were consumed by fear the train announced my stop and I stood up hoping he'd stay behind but he stood up too following me to the door I stepped off the train my heart pounding

the platform was deserted and I could hear his footsteps behind me I walked quickly trying to get to the exit but he matched my Pace wait up he called his voice echoing in the empty station I broke into a run not caring if I seemed paranoid anymore I could hear him running after me his footsteps getting closer I reached the stairs and bolted up them my breath coming in short gasps I glanced back and saw him gaining on me panic set in and I pushed myself harder my legs burning with effort I burst out of

the station and into the street it was dark and the few street lights cast Long Shadows I spotted a convenience store a block away and ran towards it hoping for safety I could still hear him behind me but I didn't dare look back I reached the store and burst through the doors startling the cashier I ran to the back hiding behind a shelf trying to catch my breath I heard the man into the store his footsteps slow and deliberate I peaked through the shelves and saw him looking around searching for me I cracked my phone

and dialed 911 Whispering my location to the operator I stayed hidden praying the police would arrive soon the man walked down each aisle getting closer to my hiding spot my heart was in my throat and I could barely breathe just as he reached the aisle I was in the sound of sirens felt the air he froze his eyes narrowing he turned and walked out of the store disappearing into the night I stayed hidden until the police arrived too scared to move they took my statement and escorted me home promising to patrol the area I couldn't

shake the feeling of his eyes on me even in the safety of my apartment I double checked the locks and closed the curtains but sleep didn't come easy that night every noise made me jump and I couldn't stop thinking about what could have happened if I hadn't won that night changed everything for me 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 Clash 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 peaked 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 cursed 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 peeped 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 slow 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 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 burglar 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 phone 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 burkers 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 to 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 D 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 burlar 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 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 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 know not 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 on they discussed plans to search the forest in the morning my mind graced 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 Point fearing they would discover I was gone and come after me the 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 wire 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 the 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 rush 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 I was home one evening just relaxing after work my phone buzzed and I picked it up expecting a message 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 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 me watching every move I made I checked all the windows and doors making sure they were locked

the text 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 someone 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 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 vent 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 tax 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 texts 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 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 Texs 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 up 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 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 street 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 it was late and

the rain was coming down hard turning the roads into Slick Black mirrors I had stayed late at the office trying to finish a project that was due the next day when I finally got out the parking lot was nearly empty I climbed into my car exhausted and started the drive home terrain was relentless the kind that makes it hard to see even with the wipers on full blast I took it slow barely able to make up the line lines on the road as I drove through the quiet streets I noticed a pair of headlights in

my rearview mirror at first I didn't think much of it just another car up late like me I figured but then the car got closer much closer I could see the outline of the vehicle in my mirror the headlights almost blinding I changed lanes hoping they would pass but they followed my art started to race maybe it was just a coincidence I thought trying to calm myself I took a right turn onto a side street thinking they would keep going straight they didn't they turned with me my tightened on the steering wheel I tried to

shake them off making a series of random turns but they matched each one the car got even closer almost bumper to bumper the driver flashed their eye beams making it impossible to see Panic set in I sped up my tires skitting on the wet pavement they did the same their car swerving dangerously close to mine I needed to find a safe place to pull over and call for help I scanned the streets for any sign of life but it was late and the rain had driven everyone inside the streets were deserted I thought thought about

pulling into a gas station but there weren't any around my mind raced through options trying to come up with a plan I saw a sign for the highway up ahead and decided to take it maybe I could lose them with a higher speed and more traffic I fled the engine roaring as I merged onto the highway the other car stayed right behind me now swerving side to side trying to push me off the road my hands were shaking and I struggled to keep control of the car terrain was so heavy it was like driving through

a waterfall I pray for a police car any sign of help nothing the highway was as empty as the streets had been the car behind me ranm into my bumper sending a jolt through my body I fought to keep the car steady another hit I could hear the crunch of metal I I had to do something I couldn't keep going like this up ahead I saw an exit sign it led to a more populated area I decided to take it hoping the street lights and buildings would provide some safety I took the exit at high

speed the tires screeching as I turned the other car followed still trying to ran me off the road I sped through the streets looking for any place that was open I saw a 24-hour diner up ahead its neon sign flickering in the rain I aimed for it praying the other car wouldn't follow me inside I pulled into the parking lot my tires sliding on the wet pavement I jumped out of the car and ran for the door the diner was nearly empty just a couple of people inside the waitress looked up startled as I burst

through the door drenched and panting call the police I shouted my voice cracking with fear someone's trying to kill me she crapped the phone her eyes wide with shock I turned to look outside the car had stopped at the entrance to the parking lot the driver sat there engine running headlights glaring into the diner I couldn't see their face but I could feel their eyes on me the police arrived within minutes but it felt like ours the car sped off as soon as they pulled in I gave the officers my statement describing the car and

what had happened they promised to patrol the area and keep an eye out but I could see the doubt in their eyes I called a friend to pick me up to shake him to drive home as I waited I couldn't shake the feeling that the driver would come back every car that passed made me jump when my friend arrived I felt a wave of relief but knew I wouldn't feel safe for a long time the police never found the car or the driver I changed my routes always looking over my shoulder always on edge it

was pouring rain when I left the office that night the storm had been built all day and now it was a full-blown downpour I hurried to my car huddling under my umbrella and saw Tom standing at the entrance he looked soaked even with his raincoat on need a ride I called out Tom smiled relieved thanks Rachel I appreciate it he climbed into the passenger seat and I cranked up the heat we chatted about work as I navigated the slick roads the rain was so heavy it was hard to see beyond a few feet the wipers

were working over time but it barely made a difference we came to a red light and I glanced over a Tom he seemed tense his fingers drumming on his knee everything okay I asked he nodded but didn't say anything the light turned green and I started started to drive a few blocks later I noticed Tom wasn't in the car anymore my heart skipped a beat I hadn't heard the door open or felt any movement I pulled over Panic Rising how could he just disappear I got out looking around calling his name the rain was relentless

soaking me in seconds there was no sign of him anywhere I got back in the car my mind racing did he jump out why didn't I hear anything I decided to head back to the office thinking maybe he had gone back there for some reason when I arrived the building was dark and locked up I knocked on the door hoping the night guard might have seen something no answer I was alone I drove around the area circling the blocks near where he vanished but there was no sign of Tong feeling desperate I called the police

they said they would send someone out to take a report but their tone made it clear they thought he probably just decided to walk home I sat in my car shivering from the cold and the fear something was very wrong I decided to go to Tom's apartment hoping he might be there when I got there his lights were off I banged on his door but no one answered as I turned to leave a figure stepped out of the Shadows I jumped recognizing one of Tom's neighbors he looked at me with a mix of curiosity and

concern you looking for Tom he asked I nodded have you seen him he shook his head not since this morning is something wrong I explained what had happened and he looked even more worried Tom's been acting strange lately he mentioned something about being followed but I thought he was just stressed from work terrain kept pounding down as I got back into my car my phone rang and I saw it was an unknown number I hesitated then answered Rachel a voice said it was Tom But he sounded scared Tom where are you I don't have much

time don't trust them he whispered theine went dead my hands were shaking as I tried to call him back but it went straight to voicemail I had no idea what was going on but I knew I couldn't go to the police they wouldn't believe me I drove around aimlessly trying to piece together what little I knew my thoughts were interrupted by the sight of a black C that seemed to be following me every turn I made it was right there behind me panic set in I took a shark turned down a side street and sped

up hoping to lose them my heart was pounding as I navigated the narrow rain slicked roads I glanced in the rearview mirror and saw the car still behind me I drove towards the outskirts of town hoping the winding roads would help me shake them the car was relentless though staying on my tail I saw a narrow dirt road and turned onto it the car bouncing over the rough terrain the road led into a dense forest the trees closed and around me and the headlights of the car behind me disappeared I kept driving until I found

a small clearing then turned off my engine and lights hoping they wouldn't find me I sat there in the dark the rain hammering on the roof trying to calm my racing heart I had to figure out what was happening and why Tom had disappeared I couldn't go home it wasn't safe after what felt like hours the rain finally started to let up I decided to head back to town keeping to the back roads I needed answers and the only place I could think of was Tom's apartment when I arrived the building was dark and quiet

I snuck in through a side door that I knew was always left unlocked I crept up to Tom's apartment and picked the lock a skill I had learned years ago and never thought I'd need inside the place was a mass papers were scattered everywhere and it looked like someone had been searching for something I found Tom's laptop on the table and opened it hoping for a clue as I searched through his files I found a folder marked danger inside were documents and photos detailing some kind of conspiracy there were pictures of people I recognized from

around town notes about meetings and lists of names it was all connected to some illegal activities that Tom had uncovered suddenly I heard footsteps outside the door I quickly closed the laptop and hid behind the couch the door creaked open and I saw a pair of boots step inside I held my breath praying they wouldn't find me the person moved around the apartment searching through the mass after what felt like an eternity they left and I heard the door lock behind them I waited a few minutes before coming out of my hiding spot I crapped

Tom's laptop and slipped out of the apartment heading back to my car I needed to find a safe place to go through the files and figure out who I could trust I drove to a nearby motel and checked in under a fake name in the safety of my room I opened the lap top again and went through everything it was clear that Tom had stumbled onto something big and now we were both targets I knew I had to get this information to someone who could help but I had to be careful I spent the rest

of the night making copies of the files and sending them to trusted contacts hoping they would take it seriously as Dawn approached I felt a little safer the storm had passed but I knew the danger wasn't over I had to stay hidden until I could be sure the information was out and Tom was safe the next few days were a blur of paranoia and fear I moved from place to place never staying in one spot for too long I heard from one of my contacts that the information had been leaked to the press and the

authorities were investigating finally I got a call from Tom he was safe hiding out in a different city he thanked me for helping him and we agreed to lay low until things blew over it took months for the dust to settle but eventually the people behind the conspiracy were arrested and things started to go back to normal I never saw Tom again but we kept in touch through encrypted messages that rainy night changed everything I learned to be more cautious to trust my instincts and to always be aware of my surroundings it was late and

the rain was coming down hard I could barely see the road through my windshield my gas gauge was almost unempty so I pulled into the first gas station I saw it was nearly deserted just one other car parked under the awning the station looked old and run down but it was my only option I got out of my car and ran to the door trying to avoid getting too wet the inside was dimly lit and the smell of old coffee hung in the air the attendant was an older man maybe in his late 50s with

a friendly smile that didn't quite reach his eyes he greeted me as I came in rough KN ha he said his voice grally yeah just need some gas I replied trying to be polite but not really wanting to engage in conversation sure thing pumps on pay when you're done I nodded and headed back out to fill up my car the rain was relentless soaking me in seconds I hurried back inside once the tank was full I handed the man at 20 and waited for my change as he fiddled with the cash register I glanced around

the place was cluttered with oldold magazines Dusty shelves and a faint hum of fluorescent lights it gave me an uneasy feeling then I heard the sound of a lock clicking I looked over and saw the attendant turning the key in the front door my stomach dropped what are you doing I asked trying to keep my voice steady just locking up for the night he said but his tone was different now less friendly more menacing I need to go I said moving toward the door he stepped in front of me blocking my way I don't think

so he said why don't you stay a while we can have a little chat Panic searched through me I packed away looking for another way out the windows were barred and there was only one other door behind the counter I had to think fast please I just want to leave I pleaded hoping to reason with him he shook his head slowly a creepy smile spreading across his face you're not going anywhere I glanced at the counter looking for anything I could use as a weapon there was a metal coffee pot Within Reach I crabbed it

and swung it at him it hit his arm and he stumbled back cursing I took my chance and bolted for the door behind the counter I pushed through and found myself in a small storage room boxes were piled high and there was a faint smell of mildew I frantically searched for another exit but there was none footsteps approached and I knew I didn't have much time I spotted a metal shelf and shoved it against the door hoping it would buy me some time the door rled as he tried to push it open I could hear

him shouting but I couldn't make out the words my heart was pounding in my chest I had to find a way out I spotted a small window high up on the wall it was my only chance I climbed onto a stack of boxes and pushed at the window it was stuck but I used all my strength to force it open the Gap was small but I managed to squeeze through I dropped to the crown outside the rain still pouring down I didn't stop to catch my breath I ran to my car fumbling with my keys

my hands were shaking so badly I could barely get the key in the lock I finally got the door open and jumped inside locking the doors behind me I started the car and peeled out of the gas station my tires skiting on the wet pavement in the rearview mirror I saw the attendant standing in the doorway watching watching me with that same Eerie smile I didn't stop driving until I reached a busy highway my heart was still racing and I felt like I might be sick I pulled over out while L Russ stop and called

the police I told them everything but I didn't know if they would find him I just wanted to get as far away from the place as possible the rest of the drive was a blur I kept checking my mirrors half expecting to see that old sedan following me when I finally got home I locked every door and window and sat in the dark trying to calm down I don't know what that man's plans were and I don't want to find out all I know is that I'll never stop at a deserted gas station again 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 out 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 crapped my backpack in shoes moving as silently as I could I remembered the car keys 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 headed 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 thing I HED 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 shadows 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 cold 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 old

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 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 I noticed a man early in the morning dressed in a utility worker uniform in expecting the houses on my street he wore a art 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 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 right 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 util utility worker this was a burlar 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 grabbed my phone and called the police Whispering the situation to the dispatcher I didn't want to alert the burlar that I was onto him I then went to my closet and pulled out my old service weapon I hadn't used it in years but 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 gave way and I heard him climbing inside I took a deep breath and stepped into the hallway my canine to 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 gun 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 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 colleagues searched the man in the rest of the house they found berky Tools in his pocket 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

was 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 ourselves when we need it most I decided to go on a solo hike in the mountains to clear my mind the trail was supposed to be easy and I

needed the peace and quiet I started early in the morning enjoying the crisp air and the sound of birds after about an hour I noticed another hiker coming up behind me he seemed friendly enough waving as he caught up to me mind if I join you he asked smiling he had a backpack and looked like he knew what he was doing I didn't think much of it and agreed we started chatting as we walked talking about the trail and the weather his name was Tom at first everything was normal Tom seemed nice but then he

started asking questions that made me uncomfortable he wanted to know why I was hiking alone where I lived and if anyone knew where I was I tried to brush off his questions with fake answers but he kept pressing we walked for a while longer and his behavior became more erratic he would stop suddenly looking around as if he heard something then start walking again without saying anything it was unsettling I began to feel uneasy and thought about how I could lose him without getting lost myself I decided to slowed down pretending to tie my shoelaces

hoping he would keep going ahead but he stopped too waiting for me my heart started to race I needed to get away from him but I didn't want to draw attention to my fear after a while I saw a side trail that wasn't marked on my map I told Tom I needed to take a break and suggested he go on without me he insisted on waiting but I lied and said I felt sick and might turned back back he seemed annoy but eventually walked ahead as soon as he was out of sight I took the

side Trail hoping it would loop back to the main one I walked quickly trying to put as much distance between us as possible the trail was narrow and overgrown but I kept going after about 10 minutes I heard footsteps behind me my heart pounded in my chest I didn't dare look back but I knew it was him I picked up my Pace almost running now the trail twisted and turned and I hoped I was losing him I came to a small clearing init behind a large tree trying to catch my breath I listened intently but

the forest was silent I Waited For What felt like an eternity then cautiously stepped back onto the trail suddenly Tom appeared in front of me blocking my path his face was Twisted an anchor why did you run he demanded I stammered trying to come up with an excuse but he cut me off you shouldn't have done that he said stepping closer I panicked and ran in the opposite direction not caring where the trail LED I could hear him chasing me his footsteps getting closer I spotted a fallen tree and scrambled over it hoping it would

slow him down I stumbled on another hiker a woman with a large dog I rushed her gasping for breath and told her what was happening she immediately called her dog to her side and shouted for Tom to back off Tom stopped glaring at us then slowly backed away and disappeared into the trees the woman introduced herself as Lisa and offered to walk with me back to the main trail her dog stayed close and I felt a bit safer we met her way back and I kept looking over my shoulder expecting Tom to reappear when we

finally reached the main trail Lisa suggested we head to the ranger station together I agreed still shaken we reported what happened and the Rangers promised to look for Tom they told me I did the right thing by finding someone else and giving help