True Middle of Nowhere Scary Horror Stories for Sleep | Black Screen With Rain Sounds

hello everyone and welcome back to the horor 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 didn't think it would be a big deal you know driving back late at night I've done it plenty of times before it was supposed to be a

short trip to visit my sister just 3 hours away I wasn't in a rush so when the weather turned I figured I'd slow down and be careful it was dling on and off nothing major at first but I was wrong so wrong the rain picked up around 11 p.m. turning the road slick and that's when I started having trouble my car this old sedan I had for years began making strange sounds I ignored it at first I just wanted to get home about half an hour later though the noises got worse like something grinding then

it happened the engine gave out and the car slowed to a stop right in the middle of nowhere I tried starting it again nothing the lights flickered the engine clicked but it wouldn't turn over over I sat there gripping the wheel staring out at the rain soaked Road there wasn't a single car passing by it was just me the rain and the Dead Silence of the empty highway I glanced to my phone no service I was at least 20 M from the last town I passed through maybe more I'm not great with cars but I

thought maybe it was something simple like the battery or the alternator I got out popped the hood and stared at the engine as if it would magically fix itself I stood there for a while the rain soaking me through before realizing I was just wasting time I couldn't fix it and no one was around so I got back in the car locked the doors and figured I'd wait it out someone had to drive by eventually right it must have been an hour later when I saw headlights in the distance cutting through the rain my heart

jumped I thought about waving them down but I was cautious it was late and I was alone but when the vehicle got closer it slowed and I saw it was a large truck a semi the truck came to a stop just ahead of me and the driver's door opened a man stepped out middle-aged with a scruffy beard wearing a baseball cap and a rain jacket he waved and started walking toward me everything inside me screamed not to open the door but I didn't want to be rude maybe he was just trying to help I cracked

the window just a bit enough to hear him car trouble he asked his voice a little too casual for my liking yeah I said I think it's the engine I've got a tow truck coming that was a lie but I didn't want to seem desperate he didn't seem to believe me he glanced at my car then back at me mind if I take a look I hesitated I didn't want to get out of the car but at the same time he was offering help maybe he knew what he was doing or maybe he just wanted

to get on his way and would leave me alone if I let him check so against my better judgment I unlocked the door and stepped out the rain was still coming down hard and we both stood there by the front of the car he bent over pretending to inspect the engine while I stood awkwardly beside him after a minute he straightened up and Shrugged looks bad you're not going anywhere tonight that's for sure I nodded trying to hide the hes creeping up my spine I'll just wait for the toe then he didn't move move he

just stood there staring at me you know you're pretty far from town I've got room in my truck if you want to lift I can drop you at a motel the way he said it too casually like it was no big deal said alarms ringing in my head I shook my head quickly now thanks I'll be fine here his smile didn't reach his eyes come on it's pouring out here you're going to be waiting a long time I try to sound firm though my voice shook I'll be fine really I don't want to leave my

car that's when his whole demeanor changed his smile faded and his eyes darkened he stepped closer and I instinctively took a step back it's not safe for a woman to be out here alone he said his voice low almost threatening you don't know what kind of people might come by my heart raced I tried to step around him but he moved to block me look I said no I repeated louder this time hoping my voice didn't betray the fear I felt I'm waiting for the tow truck he stared at me for a long moment and

I could feel the tension thick in the air I thought he was going to crab me me dragged me to his truck my hands were trembling and my throat went dry then out of nowhere headlights appeared in the distance another car coming down the road the man glanced over his shoulder his expression changing again his posture relaxed and he stepped back giving me space all right he said his voice Cal in suit yourself without another word he turned and walked back to his truck I stood there Frozen as he climbed into the cab started the

engine and pulled away the headlights of the approaching car grew brighter and I ran back to my car locking the doors as fast as I could my whole body was shaking I sat there watching as the car drove passed not even slowing down I couldn't move I couldn't think my mind was racing with what could have happened what almost did it felt like hours before I managed to pull myself together I kept the doors locked and I didn't dare leave the car again eventually the rain slowed and my phone finally picked up a signal I

called for a real tow truck this time and when they arrived I couldn't explain why I was so shaken I just wanted to get out of there away from the empty road away from the dark and the rain the trucker didn't come back but I kept glancing over my shoulder half expecting to see his headlights in the rearview mirror even now I can't drive down a quiet Road without thinking about that night how easily it could have gone wrong I was on my way to a friend's place driving through what I thought were just back

roads in some rural area I had left late which was stupid but I figured it would be a quick drive the GPS signal was spotty the entire time but I thought I knew where I was going I didn't the roads twisted around and after a while I had no clue where I was it was just endless farmland and my phone had completely lost signal I kept telling my myself I'd see a main road soon but nothing just empty fields and the occasional patch of trees the sun had gone down an hour ago and now it

was Pitch Black outside except for my headlights lighting up the road in front of me the road was narrow barely wide enough for two cars though I hadn't seen a single one since I taken that wrong turn wherever it was I was running low on gas too so I knew I needed to figure something out fast that's when I saw it a faint light up ahead as I got closer I realized it was coming from an old farmhouse sitting back from the road it was the first sign of life I'd seen in what felt like

forever I figured it was worth a shot I didn't really want to bother anyone but I was getting desperate I pulled off the road and drove down the LA dirt driveway toward the house the tires crunched on the gravel and as I got closer I could make out more of the place the house was old real old with peeling paint and sagging roof lines there were a few out buildings too a barn and some sheds all looking like they hadn't been used in years a single light was on inside glowing faintly through the front window

I parked and got out immediately feeling the chill of the night air the place was dead quiet except for the sound of crickets and the occasional rustle of leaves in the Wind I walked up to the door and knocked feeling uneasy but hoping someone could help after a minute the door creaked open and an old man stood there he must have been in his late 70s maybe older with deep lines on his face and a worn plaid shirt hanging Loosely on his thin frame his cray hair stuck out in all directions like he hadn't bothered

to com it in a while his eyes were sharp though and they locked onto me the second he opened the the door evening he said his voice graphly you lost I nodded yeah I took a wrong turn somewhere my phone's not working and I was hoping you could point me in the right direction the old man didn't say anything for a moment just looked me over like he was sizing me up then after what felt like forever he smiled a thin almost forced smile well come on in got a map inside somewhere you can warm

up too it's cold out here I hesitated but he stepped back holding the door open wider I didn't really have any other options so I stepped inside the place smelled old like dust and something I couldn't quite place the furniture looked like it hadn't been updated in decades with worn out couches and a coffee table that was covered in old newspapers there were no family pictures no sign of anyone else living there just him he led me into the kitchen where there was a small table with two chairs the light over the table was dim

casting Long Shadows on the walls sit he said pointing to one of the chairs I sat down feeling more uneasy by the second something about the way he moved slow and deliberate made me nervous he rummaged through a drawer muttering to himself before pulling out a Dusty old map he spread it out on the table in front of me were you headed he asked his eyes flicking up to meet mine I told him the name of the town I was trying to get to and he nodded slowly tracing a path with his finger your way

off he said if I can get you back on track first how about a drink you look like you've had a rough night I started to decline but before I could say anything he was already grabbing a bottle from the counter and pouring something into a glass he handed it to me the liquid slashing a bit as he did it'll warm you up he said his eyes never leaving mine I took the class though I had no intention of drinking it I just wanted to get out of there as soon as possible the air in

the room felt heavy and I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off that's when I noticed the locks every window in the kitchen had thick heavy locks on them the kind you'd use to keep something or someone inside and the door i' just come through had three separate dead bolts all of them locked now my stomach dropped I hadn't heard him lock the door but it was locked all the same I glanced around trying to stay calm something wrong the old man asked his voice low he was watching me waiting I shook my head

forcing a smile now I just I should probably get going he didn't move just stood there blocking the doorway you sure you just got here why don't you finish your drink I glanced down at the class the liquid inside looking darker than it should my heart was racing now every Instinct was telling me to get out but I couldn't see how the door was locked and he was between me and it I'm good really I said standing up slowly thanks for the help but I'll be on my way the old man's smile faded replaced with

a cold hard look sit down he said his voice flat I froze he took a step closer and I backed up bumping into the table behind me I said sit down I glanced at the door again calculating if I could make it past him maybe I could get out but he was closer now too close my heart was pounding in my ears and I could feel the sweat forming on the back of my neck I didn't sit I couldn't I turned making a break for the back door I'd noticed earlier the one leading out to

the yard the old man lunched for me but I was faster slamming into the door and fumbling with the lock my hands were shaking so badly I could barely get it open but finally the latch clicked and I shoved the door open just as I heard him yell behind me I ran I didn't look back the night was cold and the wind stung my face but I kept running my legs burning as I sprinted across the yard toward the driveway my car was still there thank God and I dove in locking the doors behind me

I fumble for the keys my hands trembling and jam them into the ignition the engine roared to life as I peeled out of the driveway I saw the old man standing on the porch watching me his face was blank no emotion at all like he'd expected me to run I didn't stop driving until I was back on a main road the lights of a small town finally coming into view it took me hours to calm down and even now I can't shake the feeling that he wasn't just some old farmer I've always been the type

of person who enjoys hiking alone it's peaceful you know no noise except for the sounds of the forest it was a Saturday morning clear skies the perfect day to get out I packed light water some snacks a map and my phone I knew the trail well enough but it was a long one through the national forest and I liked having some sense of direction if I needed it the first couple of hours were fine just me and the trees not a soul in sight that's what I liked most about it no distractions no one else

around the path was a little more rugged than I remembered though lots of roots and uneven ground I guess I wasn't paying attention when it happened one second I was walking and the next I was on the ground I must have tripped but all I could think about was the pain shooting up from my ankle I tried to get up but my leg gave out under me I reached down and my ankle was already swelling up hot and dropping it was bad real bad I knew I wasn't walking out of there on my own I

sat there for a while hoping someone else would come along but it's a quiet Trail one that not many people take especially on weekday I didn't have much luck with my phone either no signal out here of course I felt the Panic start to rise but I tried to push it down it was still early in the day and maybe someone would come by I just had to wait it must have been an hour maybe more before I heard the footsteps they were slow heavy and at first I wasn't sure if they were real or

if I was just imagining it hoping too much but then I saw him a man May 40s maybe with a scruffy beard and a worn out baseball cap he was walking down the path toward me tearing a small pack on his back he noticed me right away saw me sitting on the ground and his face shifted like he was surprised to see anyone out there you all right he asked stopping a few feet away I shook my head explaining what had happened how I couldn't walk on my ankle how there was no signal on my

phone he looked at my ankle nodding slowly then back at me that looks pretty bad he said you're not getting out of here on your own I nodded trying not to let the fear show on my face can you help me maybe call someone he hesitated which was strange it was only for a second but I noticed it then he scratched his beard looked around like he was thinking something over I don't have a phone with me he said but I've got a cabin not too far from here just off the trail I can take

you there and we can figure something out something about the way he said it made me nervous but what choice did I have I wasn't going anywhere and I needed help I wasn't about to spend the night out there with no way to move all right I said but are you sure sure it's close I don't want to be a bother he smiled a little too wide it's close enough I'll carry you you're not heavy before I could say anything else he was already Lifting me up his hands were rough and he hoisted me onto

his back like it was no problem at all I felt a bit of relief thinking maybe I was lucky to have run into someone he started walking stepping off the trail and heading deeper into the woods as he carried me I noticed the trees were getting thicker we were going deeper than I'd expected farther away from the trail I tried to make conversation asked him how long he'd lived in the area how often he came to the woods he answered but the responses were short clipped he didn't seem all that interested in talking after what

felt like forever we we reached his cabin it was small just a singl story structure with a slanted roof tucked away between the trees the wood was weathered and the windows were dark there was no car outside no sign that anyone else had been there in a long time I felt a knot forming in my stomach he set me down on the porch and opened the door inside it was just as simple a single room with a stove a table a couple of chairs and a bed in the corner I noticed right away there was

no phone nothing modern really just old furniture and a few lanterns for light go ahead and sit down he said motioning to the table I'll get you some water I hobbled over to the chair trying not to put weight on my ankle the cabin felt cold even though it was still warm outside I watched as he crapped a jug of water from the counter and poured it into a class he set it in front of me then sat down across the table just staring at me for a second I shifted uncomfortably looking around for anything

I hadn't noticed before there was something unsettling about the place where's the phone I asked trying to keep my voice steady no phone he said simply don't need one out here I felt my chest tighten how am I supposed to call for help he leaned back in his chair folding his arms I told you we'll figure something out you're not going anywhere on that ankle tonight anyway something about the way he said it sent a chill through me I felt trapped the windows were small covered with thick curtains and the door was solid wood probably

heavy to move I started to realize just how isolated we were there was no one around for Miles I really appreciate the out I said trying to sound calm but I think I should try to get back to the trail someone else might come by he didn't move didn't even blink it's late he said no one's coming by now you should just stay the night I stared at him trying to think of something to say but my mind was racing every Instinct was telling me to leave to get out of there as fast as I

could but my ankle I couldn't walk on it I'll be fine I said forcing a smile I can manage he stood up then moving around the table toward me his eyes were cold unreadable you're not leaving he said quietly not tonight my heart started pounding I pushed myself up trying to stand but my ankle gave out and I nearly fell he cracked my arm holding me steady but his was too tight like he wasn't going to let go sit down he said his voice low and dangerous I sat back down my mind racing I didn't

know what to do I couldn't run not with my ankle like this I looked around the cabin again trying to spot anything that might help me but there was nothing just at old furniture and the thick walls keeping me inside he sat back down watching me closely the silence stretched on heavy and suffocating I tried to calm myself thinking maybe if I just stayed quiet stayed calm he'd let his guard down but the longer I sat there the more I realized he had no intention of letting me leave hours passed like that I pretended to

drink the water but my throat was too dry too tight every now and then he would get up and walk to the door checking it making sure it was locked then he'd sit back down just staring at me I felt like a rabbit caught in a trap waiting for the inevitable at one point he got up and went to the stove lighting a fire it's a room filled with warmth but it didn't make me feel any safer he turned to me his face slit by the glow of the fire and smiled you'll be fine here

he said no one's going to find you my stomach dropped I couldn't take it anymore I had to get out I need to use the bathroom I said suddenly my voice shaking he pointed to a door at the back of the cabin never taking his eyes off me I got up slowly limping to the door my heart racing I had no plan no idea what I was going to do but I knew I couldn't stay there once I was inside I locked the door behind me and looked around the bathroom was small just a sink

in a toilet with a tiny window above the sink it was small but it was my only chance I hobbled over pulled myself up onto the counter and tried to open the window it was stuck painted shut probably years ago I felt Panic rising in my chest I tugged harder putting all my weight into it and finally it gave way with a loud Creek I froze listening for any sign that he'd heard but there was nothing I squeezed through the window my ankle screaming in pain but I didn't care I had to get out the

drop to the crown wasn't far but it hurt like hell when I landed I bit back a scream forcing myself to stand I couldn't put any weight on my ankle but I had to move I limped into the trees trying to get as far from the cabin as possible I didn't know where I was going didn't care I just needed to get away I could hear him now yelling from the cabin but I didn't stop the trees were thick and I used them to keep myself steady moving as fast as I could I don't know

how long I ran it felt like hours eventually I stumbled onto a dirt road and by some miracle there was a car coming I flagged them down barely able to speak through the pain and fear they helped me into the car and I told them what happened though I'm not sure I made much sense they called the police and they took me to the hospital I never saw that man again but I'll never forget his face the way he smiled when he told me no one was coming I was driving across the country headed from

one Coast to the other I'd done it before but this time I decided to take a different route away from the highways I was tired of the same old roads the endless lines of cars and all the noise I thought maybe it would be nice to see more of the country take in the back roads the quiet places that was a mistake it was around dusk when I realized I had taken a wrong turn I wasn't sure when it happened exactly the GPS on my phone had been working fine but then I lost signal somewhere

around noon the road I was unstarted to change what was once a tulan asphalt road turned into a narrow dirt path it wasn't supposed to be that way my map had shown a solid road but I figured I'd stay on it for a bit longer assuming it would connect back to the main Highway eventually as the sun went down the road only got worse trees on either side of me started closing in branches reaching out over the road blocking the L last bits of light it was like the woods were swallowing me up I hadn't

seen a house or a person for Miles not even another car just endless Forest the only sounds were my tires crunching over the gravel and the occasional thought of a rock hitting the underside of my car I was getting nervous but I didn't have a choice but to keep going the road was too narrow to turn around and I wasn't about to reverse my my way out of there for who knows how long my gas was low not empty but low enough that I needed to find my way back to civilization soon I figured I

could make it another hour or so before I really needed to worry the light faded fast and soon it was pitch dark I had my headlights on but they weren't doing much the dirt road seemed to twist and curve Without End and every time I thought I was nearing the end another Bend would come up my heart was starting to pound harder that tight feeling in your chest when you know something's not right it was too quiet too isolated there was something about the way the road stretched on that felt wrong unnatural almost I tried

to shake the thought from my head focusing on driving that's when I saw him he was standing right in the middle of the road about 50 ft ahead just inside the reach of my headlights at first I thought maybe it was just a shadow or maybe a tear or something but no it was a man his hand was out like he was trying to flag me down I slowed the car down to a crawl my stomach flipping something about him didn't sit right with me he wasn't dressed like a normal hitchhiker or someone who was

lost his clothes were dirty like he'd been out there for a long time his hair was matted and and I could see his face was pale even from that distance I should have stopped right there I should have turned the car around or done anything but keep going but I didn't I thought maybe he was in trouble maybe he needed help I couldn't just leave someone out there could I it didn't feel right so I kept driving forward but slowly my fingers were gripping the steering wheel so hard my knuckles were turning white when I

got close enough I rolled down the window just a bit maybe an inch or two enough to hear him but not enough for him to reach inside the air outside was cold colder than it should have been for that time of year hey I called out my voice shaking a little do you need help the man just stood there staring at me his eyes were wide and there was something in them that made my skin crawl he didn't move didn't respond just stared I was about to roll the window back up when he suddenly took

a step toward the car his hands still out I need a ride he said his voice low almost a whisper my heart was racing now everything inside me was screaming to drive away but I hesitated I didn't want to leave him stranded what if he really was in trouble but something about him felt wrong off I couldn't put my finger on it but it was like he didn't belong there like he wasn't supposed to be out in the middle of nowhere on this road at this time of night I don't think I can help I

said my voice a little firmer now I'm lost myself the man took another step forward his hands still out pum up like he was expecting me to just reach out and take it his eyes never left mine and I could see something in them now that made my blood run cold there was no fear in his eyes no desperation just something else something I couldn't understand please he said his voice soft I've been out here a long time I shook my head Mah telling me not to trust him I'm sorry I really can't I rolled

the window up all the way and put the car in gear my foot pressing down on the gas the car lurched forward and for a moment I thought it was over I thought I could just drive away leave him behind but as I passed him I glanced in the rear viw mirror and what I saw made my heart stop he was running after me I floored the gas the car bouncing over the uneven Road my headlights barely Illuminating the path ahead I glanced back again and he was still there sprinting after the car his arms

pumping his face Twisted in some kind of sick grin how was he keeping up I was going at least 30 m an hour but he wasn't slowing down Panic took over and I pushed the car faster the engine whining as I swered around the bends in the road the trees blurred past me and I could feel the car struggling to keep traction on the loose dirt I was sure I was going going to crash but I didn't care I had to get away from him I looked back again and this time he was gone I

didn't slow down I couldn't I kept driving my hand shaking my breath coming in short panck gasps I didn't know where I was going but I had to get away I had to keep moving after what felt like hours I finally saw a light up ahead a gas station small and rund down but it was the first sign of civilization I'd seen in miles I pulled in my tires screeching as I came to a stop I jumped out of the car my leg shaking and ran inside the clerk looked up from behind the counter startled

by how I burst through the door I must have looked like a mess sweaty pale and terrified you all right he asked his voice calm like like he'd seen worse I I need help I managed to say my voice trembling there was a man back on the road the clerk just nodded like he knew what I was talking about he didn't ask any questions didn't seem surprised he just pointed to a phone on the wall I called the police told them what happened they sent someone out to check the road but they didn't find anyone

no man no signs of anyone being out there just a long empty dirt road in the middle of nowhere I don't know who that man was or what he wanted but I'll never forget the way he looked at me the way he smiled as he chased after my car like he knew something I didn't something I didn't want to know I haven't taken a back road since it was supposed to be a fresh start we thought we had done everything right no social media no contact with anyone we used to know we even got rid

of our phones bought a beat up old car with cash and rented a cabin so far into the woods that the nearest town was was an hour away we wanted to disappear I guess in the end we were naive to think we could the cabin wasn't much a small rundown place with creaky floors and windows that let the cold in the kind of place that would seem Charming if you weren't actually living in it but it had one thing we desperately needed isolation no neighbors for Miles nothing but trees and silence for the the first

time in months I felt like we could breathe even though every night I'd lay awake listening for anything out of place it had been about 3 months since we left life had been quiet just the two of us johon spent his days chopping wood fixing up the place as best he could while I tried to keep my mind busy with cooking cleaning anything to avoid the thoughts that kept creeping back but no matter how peaceful it seemed that feeling of une EAS never went away I kept waiting for the other sh to drop for something

to go wrong that night I knew something wasn't right the moment the sun went down it was colder than usual the wind howling through the trees making the old windows rattle we had finished dinner and John was sitting by the fire flipping through an old magazine he'd found in a drawer I was washing dishes trying to shake off the feeling that had settled in my stomach but it was hard to ignore I felt Restless like I needed to check outside to make sure everything was still as it should be I tried my hands and went

to the window the one that faced the driveway but calling it a driveway was generous it was really just a dirt path leading up to the cabin surrounded by thick trees on either side nothing moved out there just Shadows swing with the wind I was about to turn away when I saw it just a Flicker at first noticeable through the trees but enough to catch my attention a light I squinted trying to focus on where it was coming from my heart started racing when I realized it was a flashlight moving slowly through the trees coming

closer to the cabin John I said my voice shaking more than I intended he didn't look up from the magazine John there's someone outside that got his attention he stood up crossing the room in a few quick strides he looked out the window his face hardening when he saw the light without a word he went to the front door and grabbed the shotgun we kept leaning against the wall just in case stay here he said his voice low I wanted to argue to tell him we should call the police but we both knew that wasn't

an option no phone no service no help we were on our own I followed him to the door anyway standing behind him as he cracked it open just enough to step outside the cold air hid me like a slap the wind carrying with it a faint sound of voices barely audible but unmistakable there were more than one of them and they were getting closer John moved off the porch staying low as he made his way toward the side of the cabin where the flashlight beam was coming from I stayed by the door my heart pounding

so hard I thought I might pass out I could hear the voices now clear though I couldn't make out what they were saying it was a mix of low murmurs and laughter the kind of sound that makes your skin crawl when you know it shouldn't be there I peaked out from the doorway just enough to see Jon Crouch by the side of the cabin his shotgun raised as he watched the light move through the trees I don't know how long we stood there Frozen waiting for something to happen it felt like hours but it was

probably only a few minutes then the light stopped the voices stopped everything was quiet again too quiet for a moment I thought maybe they had left that whoever I was had decided to move on but then I saw movement a shadow just beyond the tree line stepping out into the open a man and not just any man my heart dropped into my stomach when I recognized him it was Mark he was supposed to be in prison locked up for years after everything that had happened but there he was standing in front of our cabin his

face Twisted into that same smunk Rin I had seen so many times before I couldn't move I couldn't breathe how had he found us we had been so careful we had left everything behind behind erased ourselves from the map but somehow he had tracked us down John must have seen in two because he straightened up his tightening on the shotgun he didn't fire though not yet he was waiting assessing the situation trying to figure out how many more of them were out there come on out now Mark called his voice mocking like this was all

it came to him we know you're in there but let's not make this harder than it has to be I felt sick there was no way we were getting out of this even if JN fired even if we managed to take down Mark there were others out there I could hear them moving through the trees circling the cabin cutting off any Escape Routes we might have had John backed up slowly coming toward the door his eyes never leaving Mark he was calm too calm like he had already accepted what was about to happen we're not

coming out he said his voice steady leave now or I'll shoot Mark laughed that same cold humorless laugh I'd heard a thousand times before you really think you can stop us he said there's no one coming to help you you're alone out here might as well come out and face it John didn't respond he just stood there the shotgun aimed at Mark's chest waiting I couldn't take it anymore I crapped Jon's arm pulling him back inside the cabin we need to barricade the doors I whispered my voice trembling we can't let them get in John

hesitated but then he nodded we slammed the door shut and pushed the old wooden table in front of it followed by a chair and anything else we could find the windows were too small for any one to climb through but I wasn't taking any chances I crapped a hammer from the kitchen drawer and started nailing the window shutter shut my hand shaking so badly I could barely hold the nails all the while Mark kept talking his voice drifting through the cracks in the door taunting us you can't hide forever he said we'll get in eventually

it's just a matter of time I didn't know how long we could hold out the cabin wasn't exactly a fortress the walls were thin the locks old and rusted if they wanted to break in they could it was only a matter of when I could hear them outside their footsteps crunching over the gravel the low murmur of their voices as they made their plans I could picture them standing just beyond the trees waiting for the right moment to strike Jon stood by the door the shotgun ready I could see the fear in his eyes he

was just as scared as I was even if he didn't want to admit it he had always been the strong one the one who kept us safe but now I could see the cracks forming he didn't have a plan and neither did I hours passed or maybe it was only minutes time didn't seem to exist in that cabin all we could do was wait listening to The Sounds outside praying that somehow they would leave us alone but they didn't they were patient too patient they knew we were trapped and they were in no hurry they

had all night suddenly there was a loud crash from the back of the cabin I jumped my heart racing as I spun around to see what had happened one of the windows had been smashed glass littering the floor they were coming in John fired the shot back gun the sound deafening in the small cabin there was a scream followed by the sound of footsteps retreating into the woods he had hit someone but it wasn't enough I could hear Mark laughing again his voice growing louder as he moved closer to the door you think that'll stop

us he called out you're only making it worse for yourselves we didn't have much time they would come back and when they did they wouldn't stop until they got in John grabbed my arm pulling me toward the back of the cabin we need to go he said his voice urgent now but where I asked Panic rising in my chest they're everywhere we'll find a way he said his tightening on my arm we have to we slipped out through the back window but one they hadn't smashed yet and ran into the woods the cold air bited

my skin and the Darkness swallowed as whole as we stumbled over roots and rocks trying to stay quiet I could hear them behind us their voices growing fainter as we moved deeper into the trees we didn't stop didn't look back just kept running until my Lums burned and my legs felt like they would give out eventually we found a road an old dirt path that led back to the main Highway we we were miles from the cabin but we didn't stop we kept walking even as the sun started to rise until we finally saw a

car coming down the road we flagged it down and the driver an older man gave us a ride into town we never went back to the cabin we never even went back to get our things whatever we left behind wasn't worth the risk we started over again somewhere new somewhere they couldn't find us but I'll never forget that night I was driving back from my brother's place out in the countryside it wasn't too late maybe around 11:00 p.m. but you know how it gets in those rural areas pitch black no street lights just your headlights

cutting through the dark the road was empty and I was just focused on getting home I had the radio on low just some talk show I wasn't really listening to it was cold outside and I was trying to keep the heat just right in the car so the windows wouldn't fog up too much everything was fine peaceful almost the kind of drive that's quiet and you zone out thinking about random things I didn't notice the car far behind me at first it wasn't until I hit a long stretch of straight road that I saw headlights

in the rearview mirror it wasn't close just far back enough that I didn't really care I remember thinking it was odd though because I hadn't seen anyone for miles after a few minutes the car was still behind me but it had crept up closer maybe they were in a hurry I figured I stayed at the speed limit thinking they passed me soon but they didn't I kept glancing in the mirror expecting them to overtake but they just hung back there close enough now that I could tell it was some kind of sedan no big deal

I thought maybe they were lost too country roads all looked the same at night a few more miles went by and they didn't pass I started feeling uneasy my hands were tied on the Wheel and I kept looking in the rear view hoping they'd just turn off somewhere I slowed down a bit trying to give them the chance to pass but instead they slowed down with me keeping the same distance that's when I started to get nervous I decided to pull off to the side thinking maybe if I stopped they'd just go around there was

a small shoulder on the road enough for me to pull over as soon as I slowed down and turned my blinker on their headlights brightened and they sped up like they didn't want me to stop it caught me off guard I pulled over anyway just to see what they would do I thought maybe they were just being weird or in a hurry but they didn't pass the car slowed down and stopped right behind me I sat there for a second my heart pounding thinking maybe they were just waiting for me to go but then they

didn't move they just stayed there headlights beaming into my rear window it was too dark to see the driver but I could feel them watching me I didn't know what to do my mind was racing trying to figure out if I should get out or just drive away but every part of me was screaming not to get out of the car so I didn't I put the car in drive again and pulled back onto the road they followed I drove for a few miles like that speeding up a little thinking maybe I could lose them

but they stayed right behind me matching my speed no matter how fast or slow I went they were there keeping the same distance by now my hands were slick with sweat and my chest felt tight I tried to think of what to do there weren't many turn offs on that road but I knew there was a gas station about 20 mi up the only thing open this late if I could make it there maybe I could lose them or at least be around other people so I kept driving gripping the wheel like it was the

only thing keeping me alive a couple of minutes later I saw turn off a narrow dirt road that led into some Woods I knew it wasn't the way to the gas station but I figured I could try to lose them by turning onto it I slowed down just a bit enough enough to make the turn without giving them too much time to react as soon as I made the turn there headlights followed speeding up my heart jumped into my throat I flirted the car bouncing in shaking on the uneven dirt road the trees on either

side made it feel like I was driving into a tunnel with no way out the car behind me was right there there headlights flashing every time we hit a bump like they were trying to make me crash I tried to keep control but the road was too rough every jol made it harder to stay focused the car behind me got closer so close that I could feel the heat from their headlights through my back window then out of nowhere they ran into me it wasn't hard enough to push me off the road but it was

enough to send my heart into overdrive I slammed on the gas but they hit me again harder this time my car fishtailed and I nearly lost control the road up ahead started to curve and I knew I had to slow down down but if I did they'd hit me again and I didn't think I could keep the car on the road much longer I was trapped I couldn't turn back and I couldn't keep going like this I saw a small clearing on the side of the road just big enough to pull off without thinking I

feared off the road and into the clearing hoping the trees would give me some cover I turned off the headlights hoping they wouldn't see me I sat there holding my breath watching the road through the gaps in the trees the car flew by their headlights flashing for a second before disappearing around the band I waited listening to the sound of the engine Fading Into the distance I didn't move for what felt like hours afraid they might come back eventually I started the car again my hands still shaking I pulled back onto the road keeping my

lights off until I was sure they were gone I drove the rest of the way to the gas station checking the mirrors every few seconds half expecting to see their headlights coming up behind me again but they didn't when I finally pulled into the gas station I didn't stop I kept driving until I was back on the highway heading home I didn't care how late it was or how tired I felt I just wanted to get as far away from that road as possible I never found out who they were or what they wanted wanted

but I know one thing for sure they weren't just messing around I don't know why I thought camping alone would be a good idea I'd done it a few times before nothing serious just short trips to get away from everything I like the quiet the sounds of the woods always calmed me down helped me clear my head this trip was supposed to be the same a couple of days out by myself no distractions just me and the trees the first night was fine I hiked in set up my tent near a small stream and made

myself some dinner nothing fancy just a couple of sausages I brought with me and some instant coffee the woods were peaceful the sky was clear and the stars were bright I went to bed early tired from the day of hiking and slept straight through until morning the second day was more of the same I spent most of it exploring the area around my Camp nothing too far just in case I didn't see another person the whole time it was like I had the entire Forest to myself and for a while I enjoyed it I didn't

think anything was wrong everything felt normal that night though I woke up I wasn't sure why at first it was the middle of the night and my fire had burned down to just Embers the only light was from the half moon overhead and it barely cut through the trees I lay there for a moment listening that's when I heard it someone moving outside my tent I froze my heart started pounding so hard I could hear it in my ears I didn't know what to do I wasn't expecting anyone I hadn't seen anyone all day slowly

I unzipped the tent just enough to peek out there was a man sitting by my fire he was crouched there poking at the coals with a stick he wasn't looking at me not yet his back was to me and I could see he was eating something I blinked a couple of times trying to figure out if I was still dreaming but no he was real he had a beard messy and his clothes looked dirty like he'd been out here for a while he was eating something out of one of my pant something I didn't make

my mind was racing I hadn't heard anyone approach how long had he been there I had no idea what to do I didn't have anything for protection no weapon just a small pocket knife buried somewhere in my backpack I tried to stay quiet hoping he would finish whatever he was doing and leave then he spoke I hope you don't mind he said his voice low and rough I was hungry got lost out here been walking 4 hours I didn't respond at first I didn't trust my voice after a few seconds though I realized I had

to say something if I didn't it might make things worse ah it's okay I managed to say my throat dry you you need help or something he finally turned around and that's when I saw his eyes they were too wide too intense something about the way he looked at me made my skin crawl he smiled but it didn't reach his eyes nah I'm good just need to rest a bit it's quiet out here ain't it he stared at me not blinking as if he was waiting for something yeah I said forcing myself to sound calm

it's quiet he stood up then stretching like he'd been sitting for hours I saw he was taller than I thought a lot bigger too he took a step closer to my tent and I could feel the tension rising in the air every Instinct I had was screaming at me to run to get out of there but where would I go I was in the middle of the woods miles from the nearest road so he said tilting his head you out here by yourself I hesitated I didn't want to lie but telling him I was alone

felt like a mistake now I lied I'm uh meeting some friends tomorrow they're camping nearby he smiled again that same empty smile and nodded is that right he said not sounding convinced he looked around the campsite like he was checking to see if I was telling the truth for a while he didn't say anything he just stood there looking at me like he was trying to decide what to do next I felt trapped completely at his Mercy my mind was racing trying to think of a way out should I scream try to run what if

he had a weapon after what felt like forever he finally stepped back toward the fire guess I'll just hang around for a bit he said sitting down again been walking all night like I said feels good to sit for a while I didn't know what to say I wanted him to leave but I didn't want to provoke him so I stayed quiet watching him from inside my tent he kept poking at the fire eating my food like he belonged there after a few minutes he started asking more questions you from around here he asked his

voice casual but there was something in his tone that put me on edge now I answered keeping it short hoping he wouldn't push further figured he said nodding ain't many folks come out this way place is pretty isolated easy to get lost he kept talking asking questions that felt more personal each time how long I've been camping why did for work where I was headed next I tried to give fake answers but he wasn't satisfied he wanted more you married he asked his eyes locking onto mine got a boyfriend I hesitated again my stomach twisting

yeah I lied again he's meeting me tomorrow he didn't say anything at first just stared at me that smile fading a little you don't got a lie you know he said his voice low almost threatening ain't no shame in being out here by yourself my heart was racing now I didn't know what he wanted but it wasn't just food or place to rest the way he was watching me the way he asked those questions it felt like he was testing me trying to see how much he could get away with I started to panic thinking

of ways to get out of there I thought about grabbing my stuff and running but I didn't know if I'd make it far enough I thought about trying to scare him off but what if he called my bluff the minutes dragged on each one feeling like an eternity the man stayed by the fire still talking still watching me I didn't feel safe I knew I wasn't safe I started making a plan in my head rehearsing it over and over I tell him I needed to get something from the car it wasn't far just a couple

of minutes walk from the campsite once I got there I'd locked myself inside and drive away as fast as I could finally I worked up the courage to to speak I need to grab something from my car I said trying to sound casual like I wasn't planning anything he looked at me for a long time too long and I thought for sure he'd stop me but then he nodded all right he said I'll wait here I didn't waste any time I unzipped the tent and stepped out trying to move slowly like I wasn't in a

hurry my legs felt shaky by forced myself to walk toward the car I could feel his eyes on me the whole time and every step felt like it was taking too long when I finally reached the car I didn't look back I fumbled with the keys my hand shaking and unlocked the door I got in locked it and started the engine the sound of the engine felt deafening in the quiet of the woods I looked back toward the campsite and the man was standing now just staring at me from across the clearing he didn't move

he didn't say anything he just stood there watching as I backed the car up and drove away I didn't stop driving until I reached the highway my heart still pounding I don't know who he was or what he wanted but I know I was lucky to get out of there I had been looking forward to this hike for weeks I was always drawn to the mountains the fresh air the stunning views the feeling of being away from everything this time I chose a remote mountain range far from the usual crowds the trail started off well

the sun shining bright and I felt confident as I made my way up I knew the risks of hiking in winter but I was prepared or at least I thought I was the first few hours were perfect I took breaks to appreciate the views and took pictures of the snowy landscape as I climbed higher the air grew colder and the wind began to pick up it was around noon when the clouds rolled in I figured I had plenty of time to get back down before anything serious happened then the snow began to fall at first

it was light just flurries dancing around me but in no time it became a full-blown snowstorm the wind picked up hauling through the trees and I quickly lost sight of the trail my heart sank as I realized how easy it would be to get lost in this weather I thought about turning back but I couldn't see the path I had to keep moving after a while I stumbled upon a cabin it was old and looked like it hadn't been used in years the roof Saed under the weight of the snow and the windows were dark

I hesitated knowing it might not be safe but I had no choice the storm was getting worse and I needed shelter I pushed the door open and it creaked loudly the inside was cold and dark but at least I was out of the wind I took a moment to gather my myself I stepped inside and shut the door behind me there was no electricity and the only light came from the small window covered in Frost the place smelled of mildew and Decay a thick layer of dust covered the furniture and there were signs that someone

had been there recently an empty beer Canin lay on the floor and a half bured candle sat on the table I decided to light the candle the flickering flame cast your Shadows around the room I looked around hoping to find something useful maybe an old blanket or firewood the small kitchen had a wood stove but it was empty the thought of having to stay here overnight began to sink in and panic fluttered in my chest I looked outside but the storm was still reaching I took a deep breath and tried to calm myself I rummaged

through the cabinets hoping to find anything useful but the they were mostly bare just some old dishes and lusted utensils I kept looking but nothing gave me hope the wind held outside and I could hear the snow piling up against the door as the hours passed I grew more anxious I wrapped my jacket around me for warmth and sat down at the table the candle flickered and I kept glancing toward the door half expecting someone to come through I tried to pushed the thoughts away reminding myself that I was safe here but the unease lingered

just as night fell I heard a sound at first I thought it was the wind but then I realized it was a knock it was faint almost hesitant my heart dropped I didn't want to move but the knocking continued it came again more urgent this time someone was out there I crapped my pocket knife not knowing what I would do with it I held my breath and waited the knock came again louder I felt a rush of fear as I debated whether to open the door what if it was someone in trouble or Worse what

if it was someone dangerous finally I Heard a Voice hello is anyone in there it was a deep voice and I could hear the urgency in it I saw the light please I need help I hesitated weighing my options should I open the door what if this person meant me harm but I couldn't just leave someone out there in a storm I took a moment to steady my nerves and made my decision I slowly opened the door just to crack the man standing there looked rough his clothes were soaked and his face was pale he

appeared older than me maybe in his 40s please he said I got caught in the storm I thought this cabin was abandoned can I come in who are you I asked trying to keep my voice steady I'm just a hiker I got lost he replied I swear I won't hurt you I just need a place to stay until the storm passes I felt a chill run down my spine something about him didn't sit right with me but I could see he was genuinely cold and scared I opened the door wider letting him in thank you

he said stepping inside the warmth of the candle flickered in the dim light he shook off the snow from his clothes leaving a wet patch on the floor I backed away slightly Unsure how to act he glanced around the cabin taking in the sparse surroundings looks like we are stuck here together he said trying to sound lighthearted but there was an edge to his voice that made my stomach turn I thought this place was abandoned I replied trying to keep the conversation going to understand his intentions what were you doing out here I was just

out hiking didn't think the weather would turn so bad he moved closer to the table glancing at the candle you're lucky to have found this place it's better than being out in that storm yeah I said my voice trembling I just want to stay safe he smiled but it didn't reach his eyes of course we all just want to be safe he paused his case lingering on me do you have any food I didn't bring much with me I have some granola bars I said trying to keep my voice steady I reached into my backpack

and pulled out a few bars he took them eagerly almost too eagerly as he ate I kept my distance watching him there was something unsettling about the way he was looking at me like he was assessing me the more he ate the more I felt my anxiety Rising I glanced at the door thinking about escaping but I knew the storm would make it impossible so what are you doing out here alone he asked wiping his mouth I needed a break I said my voice shaking just wanted some time to myself he nodded but his eyes

narrowed you know this place isn't as safe as it seems people can get lost out here sometimes you meet the wrong kind of people I felt a chill run through me I don't plan on staying long I said trying to sound firm he smiled again but there was a Darkness behind it that's good you never know what can happen in a storm like this the wind held outside and I felt trapped the cabin felt smaller now the walls closing in I needed to find a way out but I didn't want to make any sudden moves

I started thinking about my options I should check on the weather I said trying to keep my tone calm maybe it will pass soon there's no point in doing that he said shaking his head the storm is just getting started best to stay put and waited out no sense in taking unnecessary risks his tone said alarms ringing in my ad something about the way he said It felt wrong I forced a smile trying to keep him calm while I thought of an escape plan as the minutes passed the tension grew heavier the man shifted closer

to me and I could see the light reflecting in his eyes I knew I had to act fast I need to use the bathroom I said trying to sound casual okay he said but make it quick we don't want to get caught out there I kned and quickly moved toward the door my heart pounding in my chest I opened it just enough to slip outside not bothering to turn back I stepped into the freezing night the snow swirling around me I didn't look back at the cabin I knew I had to run I sprinted into

the woods the cold biting in my skin I didn't stop to think just ran as fast as I could through the snow my breath coming in quick gasps I could hear him calling after me but I didn't stop I kept pushing through the trees hoping to find my way back to the trail to windal and I stumbled more than once but I forced myself to keep going finally after what felt like an eternity I broke through the trees and found the main trail I turned to look back but I didn't see him I could still

hear the storm reaching but I was on the path now I didn't stop running until I reached my car I fumbled with my keys almost dropping them in the snow when I finally got the door open I jumped in and locked it behind me I started the engine and didn't look back as I drove away my heart still racing that night as I drove through the storm I realized how close I had come to something terrible I didn't know who that man was or what he wanted but I was grateful to have made it out

the mountain mountains had their beauty but they also had darkness and I learned that sometimes the real danger lies in the shadows I had never been one to pick up hitchhikers there was something about the idea of letting a stranger into my car that always felt wrong but on that lonely stretch of highway in the middle of nowhere I found myself considering it it was late afternoon I first spoted him he stood by the side of the road backpack slung over one shoulder looking like he had been there for hours I slowed my car down

feeling a mix of curiosity and concern the sun was setting and the thought of someone stranded out here alone didn't sit well with me he smiled as I rolled down my window hey there mind giving me a ride his voice was friendly and there was something disarming about his easy smile sure where are you headed I asked trying to cage his intentions just a bit further down the road I'm trying to get to the next town he opened the door and slid into the passenger seat as he settled in I noticed his clothes were dirty

and his eyes eyes had a wild look to them but I brushed it off everyone has their story I drove off and he began chatting right away I appreciate this I've been stuck out here for a while it's a bit of a trek to the next place his tone was light and I could tell he was trying to make small talk no problem I replied keeping my eyes on the road to land Cape around us was Barren nothing but field stretching endlessly on both sides do you live around here he asked I'm just passing through

visiting some family I said he nodded looking thoughtful for a moment family is important I had a family once he said his voice dropping but things got complicated I glanced at him complicated now he chuckled but there was no humor in it you wouldn't believe it I used to have a normal life a good job a nice house but then I don't know things fell apart he looked out the window his expression darkening people can be so cruel you think you know them and then they surprise you yeah I guess so I replied cautiously people

can change he nodded slowly his gaze still fixed outside you're right sometimes they reveal their true selves when you least expect it the way he said that sent a shiver down my spine I shifted in my seat trying to focus on the road ahead so what were you doing out here I asked hoping to steer the conver ation back to lighter topics I was just looking for a fresh start you know how it is sometimes you need to run away from the past his voice was calm but there was an edge to it that made

me uneasy running away from what I asked unable to alack my curiosity he turned to look at me his eyes intense from people who want to hurt me people I trusted there was a tightness in his voice and I could sense he was holding back more than he was saying I decided to change the subject how long have you been out here long enough he replied I've been sleeping in my car moving from one place to another you meet a lot of interesting folks out here but you also meet Dangerous Ones a knot formed in

my stomach I could could feel the tension Rising have you had any bad experiences oh plenty he said his tone suddenly serious I once picked up a guy who seemed harmless but then he turned on me try to rob me it's always the ones who seem friendly that you have to watch out for I cried the steering wheel tighter suddenly hyper aware of the way he was looking at me that sounds terrifying it was he said leaning closer his voice low you never know who you can trust that's why I don't let anyone in anymore

I keep my distance it's safer that way right I said forcing a smile you have to be careful yeah he said glancing out the window again but it's not just strangers you have to worry about some times it's the people closest to you they'll betray you when you least expect it I felt a chill creep up my spine the way he spoke the intensity in his voice it was unnerving I tried to change the topic again so what do you plan to do when you get to the next town maybe find a job settle down

for a bit just need to keep my head down he replied but there was an underlying L tension in his words I took a deep breath trying to keep my composure that sounds good everyone deserves a second chance he turned to me and for a moment I saw something Flash in his eyes a hint of desperation mixed with anger you know it's hard to have a second chance when people won't let you forget your past they look at you and see your mistakes the RO a head seemed to stretch on forever and I felt trapped

well sometimes you just have to prove them wrong I said trying to be encouraging right but sometimes they won't let you he said his voice dropping again and that's when things get messy I stole a glance at him what do you mean he leaned back in his seat his demeanor shifting let's just say there are people who are not going to let Nico easily I've had to run from them before what do you mean I asked my voice barely above a whisper sometimes it's better to keep moving but I think they might have found me

he said a smile creeping onto his face that felt more like a criis who I asked my heart racing people who don't like loose ends people who want what they lost are you in trouble I asked Panic creeping into my voice he turned his head sharply his eyes locked onto mine what do you think I felt a wave of fear wash over me the road seemed to close in the trees becoming Shadows along the edges I think you need to get out of the car I said my voice firm he chuckled again but there was

no warmth to it you think you can just drop me off and be done with it it doesn't work like that I felt the adrenaline kick in I mean it you need to get out he leaned closer his face inches from mine and what if I don't what if I don't want to my heart raced as I realized how serious this had become I will call the police I said trying to sound braver than I felt do you think they can help you I can tell you stories about cops and how they can't protect you

they don't care Panic bubbled inside me I needed to get away from him I am not afraid of you I said trying to keep my voice steady good you shouldn't be you should be afraid of the people who are really out there he laughed softly but there was nothing funny about it just pull over I said my voice strained he sighed but then leaned back the semblance of calm returning fine I will get out but you have to promise me something what I asked treading the answer promise me you will keep your eyes open because

they are everywhere I didn't respond I just kept driving glancing nervously at the rearview mirror the tension in the car felt unbearable I had to find a way to get rid of him I spotted a small Diner up ahead its light shining bright against the darkening Sky let's stop there you can grab something to eat and I will be on my way he looked at me his expression unreadable fine I could use something warm I pulled into the parking lot and turned off the engine let's make this quick I said trying to sound composed he

opened the door and stepped out and I felt a wave of relief wash over me I waited a moment before following him my heart pounding as I approached the diner's entrance as we walked inside I could see the diner was almost empty a few patrons were scattered at the booths and a waitress glanced up at us I could feel the man's presence beside me his energy was unsettling crab a seat I said trying to act casual I'll be right back I headed to the bathroom hoping to gather my thoughts I locked the door behind me

and took a few deep breaths my heart racing I had to find a way to get out of this situation when I stepped back into the diner I saw him sitting at the counter chatting with the waitress he looked completely at ease but I felt anything but I glanced around looking for an exit the waitress was laughing at something he said and I could see him glancing around the room assessing everyone I made my way toward him trying to act natural what do you want to eat I asked just some coffee and a sandwich he

replied still smiling at the waitress I forced a smile that sounds good and as the waitress walked away I lean closer to him I think it's best if you get going I do not want to be involved in this he turned to me his eyes narrowing you think you can just push me away like that you brought me here I am just trying to help you I am not in this with you I do not want to get involved I said my voice trembling slightly he leaned Clos closer lowering his voice you think you can

just drop me and leave you have no idea what you are giving into suddenly I heard the door swing open and a chill ran down my spine two men walked in their eyes scanning the diner looking for someone my breath caught in my throat the man next to me smiled looks like they found me after all my heart raced as I realized I needed to to act fast listen you need to get out of here now he shook his head slowly now I think it is too late for that before I could respond one of

the men approached us there you are he said a cring spreading across his face I turned to the man next to me panic Rising you need to leave he smiled at me but there was nothing friendly about it don't worry I will take care of this detension in the diner thickened as the second man joined them we have been looking for you he said his voice low and menacing the man next to me stood up strange Cal washing over him I know but I think I will stay a little longer before I could react he

turned to the men you can't have me I am done long running I felt my heart racing as I realized I needed to escape I quickly stepped back looking for a way out the diner felt like a trap and I was the prey hey one of the men shouted crapping my arm where do you think you were going I yanked my arm free my instincts kicking in I dashed toward the door my heart pounding in my chest I could hear shouting behind me but I didn't stop I burst through the door my breath coming in

sharp gasps as I ran toward my car I fumble for my keys trembling as I tried to unlock the door I could hear footsteps behind me growing closer just as I managed to open the door I jumped inside and locked it my hand shook as I started the engine glancing in the rearview mirror the man from the diner stood outside a look of rage on his face as he shouted something I could not hear I slammed the car into reverse backing out of the parking lot as fast as I could I didn't look back my

heart racing as I drove away from the diner and into the dark night with every mile I could feel the tension easing but I knew I had narrowly escaped something terrible I kept my eyes on the road thankful to be alive sometimes trust is a dangerous thing I learned that the AR hard way I have been driving for hours navigating the winding Country Roads while the rain fell in Relentless sheets it was supposed to be a quick trip to visit an old friend the skies darkened and the wind whipped through the trees like a chorus

of warnings I should have turned back but I pressed on convinced I could make it suddenly the car hit a slick patch of Road my heart raced as I lost control the vehicle spun tires screeching and I felt a sickening Lurch as I crashed into a ditch the airbag deployed slamming into my face with a force that left me disoriented I sat there for a moment my AR pounding rain pouring in through the broken window I pushed the airbag away and took stock of the situation the car was damaged steam rising from the hood and

I knew I couldn't stay here I stepped out into the downpour the cold rain soaking through my clothes instantly I stumbled away from the car desperate for help in the distance I saw a light flickering through the rain I made my way toward it praying that someone would be home my shoes squelched in the mud as I approached roached a small farmhouse I knocked on the door my Knuckles aching from the cold a moment later the door swung open a tall man with a weathered face stood there his eyes narrowing as he took me in

what happened he asked his voice low and grally I crashed my car I explained shivering could I use your phone he frowned glancing back over his shoulder as if weighing his options you can come in but the phone is in the basement my wife is sick I don't want her Disturbed I nodded grateful for any Refuge he stepped aside allowing me to enter The Farmhouse smelled of dampwood and something earthy I'm Charlie he said closing the door behind us thank you I'm stay here he interrupted leading me toward a steep staircase that descended into darkness

by the basement I asked a flicker of unease creeping in it's quieter down there you'll be safe he replied his tone firm against my better judgment I followed him down the stairs each step echoing in the confined space when we reached the bottom he flicked on a bare BT that swung from the ceiling the light flickered casting Eerie Shadows Against The Damp walls have a seat he said pointing to an old wooden chair I hesitated but sat down my instinct screaming at me I'll get you some dry clothes and then call for help he said

Turning Away thank you I said but he didn't respond the air in the basement felt heavy and I could hear the rain pounding above after a few moments Charlie turned with a blanket tossing it over my shoulders you might be here a while the storm is bad he said I nodded trying to ignore the growing sense of dread how long do you think could be a few hours he said Crossing his arms could I use the phone now I asked shifting in my seat Charlie's expression changed we'll do it later he said and I felt

a chill run down my spine minutes passed each one feeling like an eternity I sat in silence watching him Pace his expression growing more intense what's wrong I finally asked my voice shaky nothing he replied but there was a strange gleam in his eyes is there someone else here I asked looking around the dim space he chuckled softly just me and you you're safe here I shifted in the chair the blanket slipping off my shoulders I should really call my friend he'll be worried Charlie's demeanor changed his smile fading you don't need to worry about

that I stood up adrenaline searching through me I need to go this isn't right he stepped closer blocking my path you don't want to leave it's dangerous out there I can't stay here I said fear creeping in he smiled but it was no longer friendly you're not going anywhere I have plans for you panic surged through me what do you mean let me out of here I shouted my voice echoing against the walls Charlie's expression darkened you think I'm just going to let you walk away no one ever leaves I stumbl back my heart racing

what are you talking about you can't keep me here don't you see he said his voice low and intense you're in my world now you crashed your car you're mine I backed away searching for an escape my eyes started around the basement looking for something anything that could help me please I just want to leave he moved closer the light swinging overhead casting ominous Shadows you'll stay here until I say you can go desperation fueled my actions I spotted a small window at the top of the stairs barely big enough to squeeze through but it

was my only chance I bolted toward the stairs adrenaline coursing through me get back here he shouted his voice booming as he lunched forward I scrambled up the steps heart pounding in my ears I reached the top and pushed against the door but it was locked open the door I yelled my Panic Rising I heard him behind me his footsteps heavy as he climbed the stairs I threw my weight against the door slamming my shoulder into it again and again feeling it start to give just as I heard him reach the top step the door

burst open and I stumbled into the kitchen the chaos of the moment blurring my thoughts I sprinted toward the front door praying it would be unlocked stop Charlie yelled but I didn't listen I yanked the door open my breath catching as I stepped out into the rain I ran across the yard slipping on the muddy ground hearing him behind me but I didn't look back I spotted my car just a few yards away and my heart leapt at the sight I fumbled with my keys fingers trembling as I tried to unlock the door terrain poured

down soaking me to the Bone but I didn't care I needed to get away get back here he shouted his voice filled with rage I finally got the door open and jump inside locking it as quickly as I could I turned the key in the ignition praying it would start the engine roared to life and I slammed the gear into drive I sped away from The Farmhouse my heart racing as I glanced in the rearview mirror Charlie stood there a dark figure in the rain watching me leave the road stretched out before me the Storm

still raging but I felt a surge of relief wash over me I had escaped I didn't know what had just happened or what his plans had been but I was free as I drove away I vowed never to take a detour through those back roads again I had seen the darkness that lurked just beneath the surface of a friendly face and I would never forget it I had been looking forward to that trip for weeks I had found the lake online some random Fishing Forum tucked away deep in the woods it wasn't too far from

where I lived just a couple hours drive but it was remote enough that it didn't seem like many people knew about it that was the appeal a day of solitude just me the water and maybe some base if I was lucky the morning was perfect for it the sky was overcast which kept the Sun from beating down on me and the air had that cool Early Autumn bite to it I loaded up my gear grabbed a sandwich from the cooler and started paddling out into the lake the water was still calm reflecting the DLK Ray

of the clouds it was quiet except for the occasional rustling of leaves in the wind I couldn't hear a single sound of civilization no cars no voices nothing just nature I rode out to the middle of the lake and cast my line I could tell right away it was going to be a slow day I didn't mind though fishing was as much about the piece as it was about the catch I was in no hurry I settled into the boat cracked open a beer and let the hours drift by it was sometime in the afternoon

when I noticed it movement far off in the distance at first I didn't think much of it it was a big lake and maybe someone else had the same idea as me but as the boat got closer something about it felt off it was moving slow creeping through the water like whoever was rowing didn't care about being in a hurry I squinted to get a better look it wasn't the type of boat you'd expect to see for fishing it was smaller more like Ai and there were two figures in it I tried to ignore it

at first there was no reason to be worried right I wasn't the only person in the world who liked a quiet Lake but the way they were coming toward me slow and deliberate it started to put me on edge M could told me something wasn't right still I tried to brush it off they could just be out for a paddle maybe they were friendly but they weren't fishing they didn't have rods no gear nothing as they got closer I could see their faces two men both wearing dark clothes no life jackets no coolers nothing that

suggested they were out there for the same reason I was just them in the boat heading straight for me I stopped pretending I wasn't nervous I started reeling in my line trying to act casual but my mind was racing the boat was less than 50 yards away now and they weren't slowing down I gave them a little wave thinking maybe I was overreacting maybe they were just out here to enjoy the lake like me but they didn't wave back they didn't say anything they just kept coming I locked on me panic started to creep in

my boat was a small rowboat not exactly made for speed and I was right in the middle of the lake if I tried to paddle away they'd catch up to me in no time I could feel my art start to pound and my hands were shaking as I tried to think of what to do they were almost on top of me now maybe 20 ft away and one of them finally spoke hey you alone out here his voice was flat emotionless like he already knew the answer yeah I called back trying to keep my voice

steady just out fishing what about you guys he didn't answer right away instead he looked at the other guy in the boat and they both smiled just a little like they were sharing some private joke that smile sent a chill down my spine we've been looking for a spot like this the first guy said still watching me pretty secluded huh I nodded my throat tightening my mind was screaming at me to do do something but I didn't know what run fight I was stuck out here in the middle of the lake with nowhere to go

I forced myself to stay calm to not show how scared I was what do you want I asked trying to sound casual but my voice came out shaky the second guy who hadn't said anything yet finally spoke up we're just looking to have a little fun he said his for voice slow almost a whisper he was quinning now but it wasn't friendly it was the kind of cring you see on someone who enjoys making other people uncomfortable I could feel the sweat on my forehead despite the cool air I looked around but there was no

one else no other boats no people on the shore just me them and the empty Lake listen I said trying to keep my voice calm I don't want any trouble I'm just out here to fish the first guy Shrugged no trouble at all we're just going to tie your boat to ours have a little chat what do you think I didn't have to think I knew if they got close enough to tie my boat to theirs I was done for I didn't know what they had planned but I wasn't going to wait around to find

out I'm actually about to head back back I said grabbing my ores and starting to row trying to make it look casual like I wasn't panicking but as soon as I moved they moved too faster now closing the gap between us in seconds I didn't wait I started rowing as hard as I could my arms burning as I pulled the ORS through the water the boat rocked with the effort and I could hear the splash of their ores behind me giving louder hey the first guy shouted his voice sharp now all pretense of friendliness gone

where do you think you're going I didn't answer I just kept rowing my breath coming in like it gasps my boat was small light but I wasn't sure I could out run them they were stronger faster and I could hear them gaining on me the shore felt impossibly far away I glanced over my shoulder and saw them closing in their faces heart determined I wasn't going to make it and then I saw it a narrow in let off to the side hidden by trees and Reeds it wasn't much but it was my only shot I

feared the boat hard to the left Hing for the inlet hoping the trees would give me some cover the boat lurched as I hit the shallow water the or scraping against the muddy B I jumped out my feet sinking into the cold water and dragged the boat into the the reads as fast as I could my heart was pounding my breath coming in sharp painful bursts but I didn't stop I crouched down in the reads my body trembling trying to stay as still as possible I could hear them now just a few feet away their

boat sliding through the water where' he go one of them muttered his voice angry frustrated I don't know the other replied his voice tight with irritation he couldn't have gotten far I stayed silent barely breathing listening as they rode past their eyes scanning the shoreline I could see them through the gaps and the reads their faces Twisted in Anger their hands clenched tightly around the ORS they circled the area for what felt like ours but eventually they gave up I watched as they rode back out into the Open Water their voices fading as they disappeared

into the distance I didn't move for a long time afraid they might come back my legs were cramped my muscles aching but I didn't care I was alive I had made it when I was sure they were gone I climbed back into my boat and rode as fast as I could back to shore the sun was starting to set the sky turning dark and I didn't stop until I reached my car I packed up my gear in record time my hand shaking and sped down the dirt road without looking back I didn't care about the

fish I didn't care about the lake all I cared about was getting out of there I haven't been back since I don't think I ever will we were just looking for something different to do that weekend something out of the ordinary it was me Sarah Jake and Ben we've been on road trips before hitting ghost towns and weird spots we heard about online but this place was different it was an old mining town abandoned for decades way out in the desert it wasn't one of those tourist spots with signs and plaques just a place we

found on some blog most people didn't go there because it was too out of the way we drove for hours down dirt roads barely seeing another car until we finally got there the town was small mostly crumbling buildings and a few mine entrances scattered around the hills it was hot even though it wasn't summer yet and there was no wind just that dead dry a that makes everything feel still it looked like no one had been there for a long time we parked a car on on the edge of town and started exploring it was

mostly what you'd expect empty houses broken windows old signs falling apart there was a saloon with half the roof taped in a general store with shelves Still Standing but covered in dust and a couple of rusty old cars sitting in what used to be a street everything was quiet except for the crunch of our footsteps on the dirt after about an hour we came across the mine entrance it was a huge PL black hole in the side of the hill with old wooden beams holding up the mouth a rusty sign was nailed to one of

the beams barely readable something about it being dangerous and off limits that didn't stop us though we come all this way and we weren't about to turn back just because of some old sign Jake was the first one to suggest we go inside of course he always had to push things further than anyone else Sarah wasn't so sure but ban and I didn't need much convincing I mean we had flashlights and figured we'd stick close together how bad could it be we decided to split up once we got inside each of us taking a different

tummel just to cover more ground looking back that was the first mistake the air inside was cool compared to the desert heat but it smell stale like dirt and something metallic our flashlights barely cut through the dark darkness and the walls were rough Jagged Rock carved out by miners who had been long gone I went down one of the tunnels on my own promising to meet back with everyone in half an hour at first it was kind of exciting walking through the dark feeling like I was discovering something hidden but as I got deeper the

tunnel narrowed and the light from the entrance disappeared completely the only sounds were my footsteps and the occasional drip of water somewhere I started to feel uneasy like I wasn't supposed to be there but I kept going I came across an old mining cart tipped over on its side with broken tracks running along the floor I took a few pictures with my phone and kept moving my flashlight bouncing off the walls then I heard something it wasn't loud but it was distinct a creek like what bending underweight I stopped shining my light around around but

there was nothing just the rocks and the cart and The Emptiness I told myself it was probably just the old beam settling but the sound made my skin crawl I started to head back figuring I'd seen enough that's when I noticed something strange the tunnel didn't look the same I'd only taken one turn I was sure of it but now it felt like I was deeper and than I should have been the walls seemed closer the ceiling lower I tried not to panic telling myself it was just my imagination then I heard it again the

creaking sound but this time it was closer my flashlight flickered and for a second I was in complete darkness I smacked the side of it and the light came back on but my hands were shaking I needed to get out of there I picked up my Pace trying to find the turn i' missed but the tunnel kept going twisting and turning in ways that didn't make sense it was like the walls were shifting around me I couldn't hear anyone else and I realized I had no idea how far I'd gone I should have turned back

earlier I started shouting for the others my voice echoing off the stone but there was no answer I kept walking but the feeling of being watched was growing stronger every now and then I'd shine my light over my shoulder ER expecting to see someone or something following me but there was nothing just darkness finally I saw what looked like the tunnel entrance up ahead I breathed a sigh of relief and hurried toward it but when I got closer I realized it wasn't the entrance at all it was a wooden door old and weathered with rusted

hinges I hadn't seen any doors when I came in I don't know why I didn't just turn around around then and there but I felt like I had to see what was behind it maybe it was some old storage room something left behind by the miners I reached for the handle but the door creeped open on its own before I could touch it it swung inward slow and heavy revealing a small room carved out of the rock inside there were shelves lining the walls and on the shelves were all tools pickaxes hammers shovels but that

wasn't what made my stomach drop it was the smell it hit me all at once a rancid stench like rotting meat in something sour something wrong I gagged covering my mouth with my sleeve but the smell was everywhere and then I saw it an old wooden chair sitting in the middle of a room facing away from me there were ropes tied to the arms and legs of the chair frayed and stained with something dark my flashlight flickered again casting strength Shadows on the walls and for a split second I thought I saw someone sitting in

the chair but when I blinked the chair was empty I backed out of the room my AR racing I needed to get out I turned to leave but just as I stepped back into the tunnel I heard the door slammed shut behind me with a loud echoing bang I whipped around shining my light at the door but it was just a door closed now like it had never opened at all that's when I realized I wasn't alone in the mine someone had followed me in someone had closed the door I ran I didn't care which

direction I was going anymore I just needed to get out to find the others I could hear footsteps behind me slow and deliberate like whoever was there wasn't in a hurry they didn't need to be they knew the Mind better than I did I tripped over something maybe a rock maybe my own feet and hit the ground hard my flashlight flew out of my hand and rolled away the beam flickering I scrambled to my feet grabbed the light and kept running my breath coming in raged gasps after what felt like forever I saw light up

ahead real light not the sickly yellow of my flashlight I ran toward it my legs burning my lungs on fire I burst out of the tunnel into the open air the sun already setting behind the hills I stumbled to the ground gasping for breath Sarah Jake and Ben were already outside sitting by the car laughing and talking like nothing had happened they hadn't even noticed I was missing when I told them what happened they didn't believe me they thought I was just messing with them trying to scare them but I know what I saw I

know someone was in there with me someone who didn't want me to leave we left the town that night and I haven't gone back since I don't think I ever will I don't usually drive at night but I had no choice that time my phone died and I couldn't find the charger so I was stuck with an old nap I had in the glove compartment I had been driving for hours just trying to get home after visiting a friend who lived out in the country I didn't know the area well and it felt like every

road was leading nowhere one wrong turn after another and soon I realized I was lost I kept driving down this narrow winding road hoping I'd see a sign or something familiar but it was just on both sides and the headlights barely cut through the darkness it started raining two heavy drops pounding against the windshield making it even harder to see my nerves were shot and I just wanted to get out of there but then I saw it a large house or maybe a farm off to the side of the road it looked abandoned at first

the grass was overgrown the windows dark and there were no cars parked outside the driveway was long disappearing into the Shadows but I was desperate I figured someone might live there or at least I could use their phone if the place wasn't completely empty I pulled in and parked near the front leaving my headlights on to light the way the rain was coming down harder now and I was already soaked by the time I got out of the car the house was bigger than it looked from the road two stories with peeling paint and sagging

porch I walked up to the front door and knocked hoping someone would answer nothing I knocked again louder this time calling out hello still nothing I tried the door it creaked open I hesitated but I figured if the door wasn't locked it couldn't hurt to step inside and see if anyone was home the inside was just as run down as the outside Dusty Furniture dim lighting and an odd smell I couldn't place the air felt heavy and the owl seemed way too quiet like no one had been there in years I walked into what looked

like the living room calling out again hello anyone here that's when I heard it a noise from upstairs it sounded like something moving maybe footsteps I froze for a second my heart racing but then I thought maybe it's just someone who didn't hear me come in I decided to check it out hoping I wasn't about to Spook some old guy living alone I climbed the stairs slowly the wood creaking under my feet at the top there was a long hallway with several doors all of them closed I wasn't sure which way to go so I

just stood there for a moment listening that's when one of the doors opened a man stepped out out tall and thin with a long face and sunken eyes he was wearing old clothes like something out of a different time his expression was blank but his eyes locked on me immediately like he knew I wasn't supposed to be there what are you doing in my house his voice was cold flat I stammered trying to explain that I was lost that I just needed help finding my way maybe a phone but he didn't seem to care you're

trespassing he said taking a step toward me I could feel my stomach drop there was something off about him something that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up I tried to apologize backing up a little but he kept coming closer you need to leave he said his voice getting lower more threatening I turned to head back downstairs but before I could take another step I felt his hand crab my arm hard I yanked it away my heart pounding in my chest but he was faster than I expected he blocked my path

his eyes wild now you think you can just come into my house he snarled you think you can just walk in like you own the place I didn't know what to do I was scared more scared than I'd ever been in my life I tried to talk my way out of it telling him I'd leave that I didn't mean any harm but he wasn't listening he reached into his pocket and pulled out something a knife it wasn't big but the sight of it sent me into a panic you're not going anywhere he said almost Whispering

now I backed away my mind racing trying to figure out how to get out of there he lunged at me and I bolted running down the hallway as fast as I could I didn't even know where I was going just away from him I ducked into one of the rooms slamming the door behind me and locking it my hands were shaking and I could hear him outside banging on the door shouting that I couldn't hide that I wouldn't make it out I looked around the room trying to find another way out but there was only

a small window barely big enough for me to squeeze through the door started to crack under the force of his blows I knew I didn't have much time I ran into the window forcing it open the rain pouring in from outside it was a tight fit but I managed to push myself through landing hard on the wet CR outside I didn't stop to catch my breath I just ran slipping in the mud my heart pounding in my chest I could hear him shouting behind me but I didn't look back I made it to my car

fumbling with the keys my hand shaking so bad I could barely get them into the ignition the engine started and I fled the tires spinning in the mud before finally catching I sped down the driveway my heart racing the rain blurring everything outside the windshield I didn't slow down until I was miles away my mind still racing trying to make sense of what had just happened I didn't stop driving until I reached the next town I found a gas station parked under the bright lights and just sat there for a while shaking trying to calm

down I didn't call the police I didn't want to explain why I was doing out there or how I ended up in that situation I just wanted to forget it to get home and put it behind me but I can't forget even now I still think about that night about how close I came to never making it out of there and I'll never ever go back down a road I don't know not ever again I wasn't even planning to run that day I'd been up late the night before working on some stuff around my house

and I was tired but the weather was perfect and I told myself I'd just do a short jog nothing too serious I liked running on the back roads near my place the ones that cut through the Farmland it's peaceful out there barely any traffic just fields and the occasional tractor I didn't bring my phone I know it sounds stupid now but I never used to I like the quiet and being disconnected I had my route down 5 miles out and back and I done it a 100 times before I was about 3 miles in when

I saw the truck it wasn't anything special just an old beat up pickup it was pulled off to the side of the road facing me I didn't think much of it at first just kept my Pace as I got closer I noticed the driver was still sitting inside staring at me that's when I started to feel uneasy but I kept going I didn't want to stop and look scared people stop on these roads all the time I told myself I passed the truck keeping my eyes straight ahead then I heard the engine start the truck

pulled onto the road behind me slow at first like he was following me I tried to stay calm told myself it was just a coincidence but my heart was starting to race I picked up my Pace a little my legs moving faster than I intended I could hear the truck coming up behind me and then just like that it pulled in front of me and stopped stopped the door swung open before I could react a man stepped out he was tall heavy set and wearing a dirty baseball cap his face was rough like he hadn't

shaved in days I slowed down unsure of what to do I thought maybe he needed help but something about his posture made me hesitate he wasn't smiling wasn't asking for directions he just just stood there staring at me before I could turn around he lunged at me I barely had time to scream before his hands were on me grabbing my arm and pulling me toward the truck I fought back kicking and twisting but he was strong my mind went blank all I could think about was giving away I managed to wrench my arm free for

a second and tried to run but he was faster he caught me by the waist and dragged me to the truck throwing me inside the cab I hit the seat hard gasping for breath he slammed the door and got in on the driver's side locking the doors I fumbled with the handle but it wouldn't budge the truck was already moving I was trapped I tried to scream but he hit me hard across the face the pain was blinding and my vision blurred shut up he crawled his voice slow and cold I clutched my cheek my

whole body shaking I wanted to scream again but I was too scared we drove for what felt like forever bouncing along the back roads I had no idea where we were going my head was spinning my thoughts all jumbled I kept thinking this couldn't be happening stuff like this doesn't happen in real life not to people like me but it was happening and I had no control the truck finally slowed down as we pulled off the main road onto a dirt path there were no houses no signs of life just fields and trees after a

few minutes I saw the barn it was old with peeling red paint and a sagging roof there were no other buildings around no animals nothing just this Barn in the middle of nowhere he stopped the truck in front of it and got out walking around to my side I tried to brace myself but I didn't stand a chance he yanked the door open grabbed me by the arm and dragged me out I stumbled nearly falling but he didn't care he pulled me toward the barn his like iron I tried to resist but my body wasn't

working right I was too terrified he shove me inside slamming the door behind us the air smelled musty like dirt and lot it was dark but I could see enough to know there was no way out the windows were boarded up and there was nothing inside but some old tools and a stack of hay in the corner he pushed me down onto the floor and pulled out some rope from his pocket I tried to fight him off but he was too strong he tied my wrists behind my back tied not that I could feel the

Rope digging into my skin then he tied my ankles leaving me lying there helpless don't move he said standing over me his voice was calm now almost casual I'll be back I watched him walk out of the barn closing the door behind him the sound of the lock clicking echoed in my ears I was alone I lay there for a while trying to catch my breath my whole body ate and my mind was racing I couldn't believe this was happening I thought about screaming but who would hear me we were miles from anywhere no one

was coming I didn't know how long I lay there but eventually I heard the door open again I tensed up trying to prepare myself for whatever was coming next but it wasn't the man it was someone else else it was another man younger maybe in his 20s he had a rough look about him with dirty clothes and unkempt hair he looked at me with a kind of casual indifference like I was just another part of his day she's awake he said turning back toward the door the first man walked in behind him he nodded looking

me over good we need to get this done the younger man walked over to the corner of the barn and pulled out a chair setting it in front of me the older man sat down leaning forward here's how this is going to go he said you're going to do exactly what I tell you if you don't things are going to get bad you understand I didn't answer I couldn't I was too scared to even speak he sighed and shook his head head you're going to help me get some money he continued we're going to call

someone you know someone who'll pay to get you back you got family right I nodded my heart racing could he said you're going to tell them exactly what I say or I'm going to hurt you you understand that I nodded again tears welling up in my eyes I didn't know what what else to do he pulled out a phone and dialed a number holding it up to my ear say what I tell you he ordered the phone rang and after a few moments someone picked up it was my sister I could hear her voice but

I couldn't speak I was choking on my fear tell her you need help the man whispered his breath hot against my ear I need help I managed to say my voice shaking tell her you're in trouble he said I'm in trouble I repeated my whole body trembling tell her to get $10,000 or she'll never see you again I couldn't say it my throat was closing up but the man grabbed my arm twisting it painfully I gasped and repeated the words get $10,000 or you'll never see me again there was a long pause on the other

end of the line I could hear my sister's voice frantic now asking where I was what had happened but the man pulled the phone away and hung up good he said standing up now we wait I don't know how long I was in that Barn hours maybe more the two men left me alone most of the time only coming in to check on me or give me water I kept thinking about how I got in here how stupid I was for running without my phone how no one knew where I was but then something happened

I overheard the younger man talking to the older one they were outside the barn but I could hear them through the cracks in the wall they weren't planning to let me go even if they got the money they were going to kill me I started to panic my mind racing I had to get out of there I had to do something I started working at the ropes around my wrists twisting my hands as best as I could it hurt the Rope cutting into my skin but I didn't stop I kept at it until I felt

the knot loosened just a little it was enough I managed to slip one hand free my heart was pounding as I untied my other hand then my ankles I was free but I didn't know what to to do next the barn was locked from the outside and I didn't have any way to break out I looked around the barn my mind racing there was a small window high up on the wall it was barely big enough for me to squeeze through but it was my only chance I grabbed one of the old tools lying around

and started working at the boards covering the window it was slow going but I managed to pry one of them loose I heard footsteps outside the men were coming back and I knew I didn't have much time my hands were shaking as I worked faster prying at the boards with all the strength I had left one finally came loose enough for me to push through I squeezed myself through the small opening feeling the rough edges scrape against my skin but I didn't tear I was desperate I dropped to the CR outside the barn the cold

dirt hitting my knees as I landed I scrambled to my feet adrenaline pumping through me I couldn't stop to think I just ran the men were still inside probably assuming I was tied up and helpless the path leading back to the main road was long and the field stretched for what felt like miles in every direction I had no idea where I was going but I knew I couldn't stay anywhere near the barn my legs ate but I pushed through the pain running faster than I ever had in my life I stayed low trying to

use the tall grass and the dips in the ground to hide myself as much as possible every noise made my heart pound my own breath the sound of my shoes hitting the dirt the rustling of the grass I kept expecting to hear the truck start for them to come after me but there was nothing the only sound was the wind cutting through the Open Fields I had no sense of time I don't know how long I ran but eventually I saw a faint glimmer of hope a farmhouse in the distance a small light glowing from

its porch it was the first sign of life I had seen since this nightmare began I didn't stop to think I made a beine for it my breath ragged and my legs feeling like they were about to give out I was terrified that the men would catch me before I made it there that this wasn't over yet but I kept running focusing on that single point of light ahead when I finally reached The Farmhouse I was barely able to stand I pounded on the door too exhausted to scream my fists hit the wood weak and

frantic after what felt like an eternity the door opened and an older man stood there his face Twisted in confusion please help me I gasped collapsing to the CR At His Feet the man immediately pulled me inside slamming the door shut and locking it behind him his wife appeared from another room her eyes wide with shock when she saw me covered in dirt and bleeding from the cuts on my arms we need to call the police I said barely able to get the words out the man nodded rushing to grab the phone I could hear

the faint sound of him talking to the 911 operator but my mind was slipping too overwhelmed by everything that had happened I collapsed onto their couch my body finally giving into the exhaustion the next thing I remember is the police arriving the flashing lights filled the room and I felt a strange sense of relief wash over me I was safe now they took my statement listened to everything I had been through and assured me they would find the men who did this it took hours for them to track down the barn and when they got

there it was empty the men were gone but they found my ropes the chair the tools they found evidence that I had been there and that I had been telling the truth I don't know what happened to those men the police said they would keep looking but they didn't seem hopeful all I could do was try to move on try to forget the feeling of their hands on me the terror of being tied up in that barn but even now I still look over my shoulder when I run every time I my car slows down

near me my heart races and I can't help but think that one day they might come back I survived but I don't think I'll ever really feel safe again I rented the cabin because I needed to get away it wasn't anything fancy just a small one room place in the woods I'd found it online advertised as off the crit and perfect for Solitude it sounded like exactly what I needed orc had been killing me for months and I felt like I was on the edge of burning out my plan was simple head out there stay

for the week no phone no emails just some quiet time to reset the owner of the place a guy named Dan gave me some VAP directions to find it since there wasn't much out there and no GPS would work that was part of the appeal the first day was perfect I spent it mostly reading and hiking around the property the cabin sat near a small stream and there were thick trees surrounding it in every direction it was peaceful isolated you couldn't hear cars people or anything just the sound of nature the way I wanted it

that night after cooking some dinner on the little propane stove I settled into the old couch with a book it was Pitch Black outside by then the cabin didn't have electricity so I was using a lantern for light I remember feeling good come for the first time in a long while then I heard it a cun shot I wasn't sure at first it was dis like it came from somewhere deeper in the woods but it was unmistakable a sharp cracking sound I sat up listening maybe someone was hunting I thought people hunt in these Woods

right I didn't know for sure but it made sense I didn't know a lot about the area but I figured it wasn't unusual then there was another shot and another three in total each one sounding a little closer than the last I felt a bit on edge but tried to calm myself down people hunt it's not that weird I locked the door more out of habit and fear and went to bed the next day was quiet I didn't hear any more gunshots and I tried to put it out of my mind I spent most of

the day hiking exploring the woods around the C cabin it was a beautiful area Untouched by any kind of development and it was easy to feel like you were the only person in the world by the time I got back to the cabin that evening I was exhausted as the sun started setting I made myself some dinner and sat outside on the small porch That's when I saw him a man was walking through the trees coming from the direction of the trail I'd taken earlier at first I was just surprised surprised I hadn't seen anyone

else out here and I wasn't expecting visitors he was older maybe in his 50s with a rough look about him his clothes were dirty like he'd been out in the woods for days and he was carrying a rifle slum over his shoulder I stood up trying to make it clear that I saw him he didn't wave or call out he just kept walking toward the cabin until he was about 20 ft away then he stopped and looked at me I didn't know what to say something about the way he just stared made me nervous can

I help you I finally asked he didn't answer right away just kept staring then he spoke his voice low and grally you shouldn't be here he said what do you mean I asked I'm renting this cabin he shook his head don't care you need to leave now there was no friendliness in his voice no sense that this was just some misunderstanding my heart started to pound a little harder I tried to keep my voice steady look I'm just here for a few days I rented it from Dan I'm not causing any trouble he took a

step closer his face hardening I don't care who you rented it from you leave tonight or you won't be leaving it all that's when I noticed the way his hand rested on the rifle just lightly like a casual threat I felt a cold chill run down my spine this wasn't just some random local telling me to get lost he meant it I didn't know what to do so I nodded all right I said I'll pack up and leave he didn't move for a few seconds just kept staring at me then he turned and walked back

into the woods without another word as soon as he was out of sight I rushed back into the cabin and locked the door my mind was racing who the hell was that guy and why did he want me gone so badly I looked around the cabin trying to figure out what to do I didn't have my my phone there was no reception out here anyway and the thought of driving down the narrow winding Dirt Road in the dark terrified me but staying in the cabin didn't feel safe either I decided to leave as soon as

the sun set I packed my things and get out it was dark now and the only light came from my Lantern I started packing up trying to be as quiet as possible the man's words kept playing in my head the way he said I wouldn't be leaving if I stayed I kept glancing at the windows half expecting him to appear outside the silence was suffocating then I heard the gunshot again this time it was close too close my heart jumped into my throat it wasn't just a random Hunter he was out there and he was

getting closer I rushed to grab my bag fumbling with a zipper in my Panic another gunshot rang out followed by the unmistakable sound of footsteps in the distance he was coming I turned off the lantern plunging the cabin Into Darkness my hands were shaking as I stood there listening the footsteps were getting closer slow deliberate he wasn't rushing he knew exactly where I was I ran ran to the door my heart pounding in my chest I knew I had to leave but I also knew he was out there waiting my truck was parked about 50

yard from the cabin but that felt like miles in the dark especially with him nearby I stood Frozen by the door trying to decide what to do then I heard his voice again outside this time just beyond the trees I told you to leave his voice was calm almost amused my blood ran cold he was playing with me he wanted me to run to make it more fun for him I couldn't wait any longer I grabbed my bag and opened the door as quietly as I could the cold night air hit me and I stepped

out onto the porch I could barely see anything in the darkness but I knew the general direction of the truck I just had to make it there before he saw me I moved as fast as I could without making noise keeping low to the ground the trees cast lawn shadows and every rustle of leaves made me jump I kept expecting to hear another gunshot to feel the bullet hit me but all I heard was the sound of my own breathing raged and panicked I was halfway to the truck when I heard the snap of a

twig behind me I froze my heart pounding in my chest he was close too close I could feel him watching me waiting for me to make a move I didn't think I just ran I sprinted the rest of the way to the truck my feet pounding against the ground I could hear him behind me now crashing through the underbrush I fumbled for my keas my hand shaking so badly I almost dropped them finally I got the door open and jumped inside slamming it shut up behind me I started the engine just as I saw him

emerge from the trees he was standing at the edge of the clearing his rifle raised I threw the truck into reverse backing out as fast as I could a cunshot rang out and I heard the sound of glass shattering as the bullet hit the back window I didn't stop I flirted the tires spinning in the dirt as I sped down the narrow road my hands were CR in the steering wheel so tightly they hurt but I didn't care I just had to get out I drove for what felt like ours not slowing down until I

was miles away from the cabin only then did I pull over my body shaking uncontrollably I sat there in the dark trying to catch my breath my mind racing I don't know who that man was or why he wanted me gone so badly but I knew one thing for sure I wasn't going back to that cabin I was driving through the desert heading toward a small town that wasn't much more than a DOT on the map the kind of place where you stop for gas maybe grab a coffee and keep moving it was just me

in the car I like the quiet I'd been on the road for a while and the gas gauge was getting low so when I saw a sign for a gas station up ahead I figured I'd stop fill up and be on my way it was one of those old rundown places you barely see anymore the kind with a single pump and a weathered building next to it there were no other cars around and the place looked almost abandoned but I didn't have much of a choice the next station wasn't for miles and I wasn't about

to risk running out of gas in the middle of nowhere I pulled up to the pump got out and started filling the tank the sun was brutal the heat making everything Shimmer I wiped the sweat off my forehead and glanced around it was dead quiet no wind no noise just the sound of the pump ticking away that's when I noticed the guy he must have come out of the building though I didn't see him him at first he was walking toward me wearing a dirty t-shirt and jeans that looked like they hadn't been washed in

weeks his hair was Creasy and he had this CR on his face that immediately put me on edge he wasn't old maybe in his 30s but there was something off about him his CR didn't reach his eyes need help with that he asked his voice too cheerful for the situation no I'm good I said quickly ly hoping he'd take the hint I didn't like the way he was looking at me like he was sizing me up I tried to focus on the pump willing it to finish faster not many people come through here he continued

stepping a little closer where you headed I hesitated not wanting to give him any details just passing through he kept grinning leaning against the pump now too close for comfort that so must be lonely driving out here all by yourself the hairs on the back of my neck stood up his tone had changed just slightly but enough for me to notice I didn't answer just kept watching the numbers on the pump praying for it to be done you should be careful out here he said after a long pause a lot can happen on these roads

especially at night the pump click and I pulled the nozzle out putting it back in place my heart was racing now I could feel his eyes on me as I walked around to the driver's side of the car my hand shaking as I grabbed the door handle hey he called out taking a step toward me you didn't pay yet I froze I hadn't even thought about it my mind was too busy screaming at me to get out of there I glanced at the building the door was open and the inside looked dark and cluttered I

really didn't want to go in there with him but I had no choice I had to pay I left the door of the car open hoping that maybe someone would drive by someone who could see if anything went wrong the guy followed me as I walked into the small dimly lit shop the air inside was thick and smelled like stale cigarettes and something else I couldn't place there was a counter in the corner with an old cash register and a few Dusty shelves filled with random junk he stood behind me too close as I dug

through my bag for my wallet I could feel his breath on the back of my neck my fingers fumbled and I dropped the wallet before I could reach down to pick it up he stepped forward blocking my path he picked it up slowly holding it out to me with that same creepy grin in here you go he said his voice low now I took it from him my hand shaking as I pulled out some cash when I handed him the money he didn't take it right away he just stared at me for a few seconds

like he was thinking about something finally he crapped the pills from my hand and shoved them into his pocket not even bothering to ring it up you be careful out there he said again his eyes narrowing just a little you never know who you might run into I didn't respond I turned and walked out of the building as fast as I could without looking like I was running my heart was pounding so hard it felt like it was going to burst out of my chest all I wanted was to get back in my car and

get as far away from the place as possible I reached the car slammed the door shut and locked it my hands were shaking as I put the key in the ignition I turned the key but the engine didn't start it just clicked I tried again nothing my stomach dropped I tried once more harder this time like maybe that would make a difference but it didn't the engine wouldn't turn over I sat there staring at the dashboard paniced creeping in I knew what this meant I didn't know how but somehow they I had done something to

my car I looked up and there he was standing just outside the gas station watching me he wasn't smiling anymore his face was blank but his eyes were dark colder than before I didn't know what to do I couldn't stay in the car but I couldn't get out either he started walking toward me slow and deliberate like he had all the time in the world my mind was racing trying to figure out a way out of this I popped the hood maybe I could fix it maybe it was something simple I opened the door forcing

myself to act normal like I wasn't terrified like I didn't know he was coming for me I walked around to the front of the car lifting the hood pretending to look at the engine though I had no idea what I was doing he was closer now just a few feet away I could hear his footsteps crunching in the gravel my heart was pounding in my ears car trouble he asked his voice too casual I didn't answer I was trying to think trying to figure out some way to get out of this my mind was blank

Panic taking over he was right there now standing next to me looking down at the engine looks like you're stuck here he said softly and I I felt a wave of tread wash over me without thinking I slammed the down the noise startling both of us before he could react I ran to the driver's side grabbed my phone from the seat and bolted I didn't know where I was going there was nothing but desert in every direction but staying there with him felt like a death sentence I heard him yell something behind me but I

didn't look back my legs were burning my lung on fire but I kept running I had no plan no idea what to do next my phone was useless without surface but I clutched it like a Lifeline anyway I could hear his footsteps behind me now faster angrier he was chasing me I pushed myself harder my heart pounding in my chest the heat was unbearable the sun burning down on me my body screamed for me to stop by couldn't I had to keep going then just when I thought I couldn't run anymore I saw it a

car coming down the road a miracle I waved my arms screaming running toward it like it was my only hope it slowed down and the driver an older man looked at me with confusion as I ran up to his window please I gasped please help me he didn't ask questions he unlocked the door and I scrambled inside just as I heard the other man's footsteps behind me I slammed the door shut and locked it drive I shouted and the old man sensing the urgency fled as we sped away I glanced back the guy from the

gas station was standing in the middle of the road watching his go his face Twisted in anchor I didn't look for long I didn't want to see what was in his eyes the old man didn't say much as he drove he didn't need to I was safe now and that was all that mattered I didn't know what that guy had planned for me and I didn't want to find out all I knew was that I wasn't going back to that gas station or anywhere near it ever again I remember when Tom first pitched the idea

of a Wilderness survival trip we'd known each other for years so it didn't seem strange when he suggested it we both liked the outdoors camping hiking things like that but this trip was supposed to be different no phones no GPS just Us in whatever we could carry on our backs for a week it sounded like a challenge and I was all in I trusted Tom there was no reason not to we drove out to this remote area about 5 hours from the city deep into the mountains no Trails no marked campsites just wild untamed land

it was beautiful in an isolated way nothing but trees and the distant sound of a river somewhere nearby the air felt cleaner out there untouched the first couple of days went fine we set up camp caught fish pill fires it was tough but manageable the whole point was to live off the land and we were doing it but looking back I realized there were small things that started to feel off Tom was quieter than usual not his normal self he wasn't joking around like he always did wasn't complaining when something was hard he seemed too

focused too serious I chocked it up to him being into the challenge but there was something more I just didn't see it yet on the third day we hiked further into the woods away from the river up toward the mountains it was Steep and the trail if you could call it that was rough we barely saw any Wildlife which struck me as odd but I didn't think much of it it was getting being late and we needed to set up camp again that's when Tom suggested we stop at this small clearing a little too open

for my liking I thought it' make us easy targets for animals but he insisted I noticed something weird when I started unpacking my gear one of my knives was missing I knew I packed it double checked everything before we left but it was just gone I mentioned it to Tom and he Shrugged didn't seem concerned you still got your Hatchet he said I figured I just misplaced it somehow but I couldn't shake the feeling that it wasn't me who'd lost it that night was when everything started to shift we were sitting around the fire not

saying much just watching the Flames Tom finally spoke up but the tone of his voice made me freeze you ever think about what it' be like to just disappear out here he asked staring into the fire not looking at me like if someone just never came back nobody would ever know I laughed thinking he was trying to mess with me yeah I guess pretty easy to get lost out here he didn't laugh back he just looked at me and there was something in his eyes I hadn't seen before it wasn't the look of someone joking

around it was cold almost Cal ulating nah I mean on purpose he said what if someone didn't want to come back or what if they didn't let someone else come back I stared at him waiting for him to crack a smile tell me he was kidding but he didn't my stomach tightened something wasn't right Tom what are you talking about he didn't answer right away just kept poking at the fire with a stick sending Sparks up into the night just saying out here it would be easy nobody would find you I tried to laugh it

off tried to tell myself it was just the isolation getting to him but something about the way he was acting made me uneasy I decided to change the subject asked him about the hike we had planned for the next day but the tension didn't leave the air we turned and not long after that I couldn't sleep though I lay there in my sleeping bag staring up at the sky my mind racing Tom's words kept echoing in my head I wanted to believe you was just talking nonsense but the feeling in my gut wouldn't go away

sometime in the middle of the night I heard movement quiet almost like someone was trying not to wake me I stayed still listening my heart pounding in my chest the sound of soft footsteps moving away from the camp I slowly sat up careful not to make any noise Tom's sleeping bag was empty I crapped my flashlight and slipped out of my bag my finger shaking as I clicked it on the beam cut through the darkness landing on the trees around the clearing no sign of him I called his name softly at first then louder no

answer p set in I cracked my Hatchet the only weapon I had left and started walking toward the edge of the clearing scanning the woods that's when I heard it a snap of a branch not too far away I pointed the flashlight in that direction and there he was standing just beyond the treine he didn't say anything just stood there staring at me in his hand he was holding something my Miss knife Tom I said my voice shaking what the hell are you doing he didn't answer right away he just took a step closer the

knife glinting in the beam of my flashlight you know he finally said I've been thinking about this for a while what it would be like to just walk out of the woods alone what people would say how theyve react when you didn't come back my mind was spinning trying trying to make sense of what he was saying but nothing fit this wasn't Tom this wasn't the guy I'd known for years I don't know what you're talking about I said backing up a step gripping the hatchet tighter we're going back tomorrow both of us he smiled

then but it wasn't the kind of smile that put you at ease it was the kind of smile that made your blood run cold not both of us he said taking another step toward me one of us that's when it hit me this wasn't some messed up joke he wasn't losing it from being out here too long he had planned this he brought me out here for this my heart pounded in my chest adrenaline kicking in I didn't wait for him to take another step I turned and ran I didn't know where I was going

just deeper into the woods away from him I could hear him behind me running too the sound of his footsteps getting closer I pushed myself harder branches whipping against my face the crown uneven beneath my feet my hunts were burning but I couldn't stop I couldn't let him catch me I stumbled nearly falling but I caught myself and kept going I didn't dare look back I knew he was right behind me I could feel it then out of nowhere the crown gave way beneath me I slid down a steep embankment crashing through bushes and rocks

tumbling to the bottom pain shot through my ankle as I hit the ground hard I gasped trying to catch my breath but the pain was overwhelming I tried to stand but my ankle gave out sending me crashing back to the ground i h him at the top of the hill his footsteps slowing he was close too close I crawled draging myself behind a large Boulder hoping the darkness would hide me I held my breath trying not to make a sound my heart was pounding so hard I thought he'd hear it I heard him moving slowly

searching he was toying with me now drawing it out you can't run forever he called out his voice almost sings song it's just you and me out here no one's coming to save you I squeezed my eyes shut praying he wouldn't find me I was trapped nowhere to go no way to fight him off but then through the panic I remembered the hatchet still clutched in my hand my only chance I waited listening to his footsteps trying to gauge how close he was he was circling getting closer his breathing steady calm then he was there

right on the other side of the boulder I could see his shadow moving hear the sound of the knife scraping against The Rock as he draged it along the surface I didn't think I just acted I swung the hatchet with everything I had blind desperate it connected with something solid and there was a sickening thud followed by a gasp the knife clattered to the ground I scrambled to my feet ignoring the pain in my ankle and ran I didn't look back didn't check to see if he was down I just ran I don't know how

long I ran for but eventually I found the road the one we driven in on I limped along it until I found help someone who could get me out of there I never saw Tom again I was driving back from my sister's place it was late and I wanted to get home before it got too dark but somewhere along the way I missed a turn I don't even know how it happened I swear I was following the directions one one minute I was on a highway and the next I was winding through narrow roads with

no signs no lights nothing I kept telling myself I'd find my way back but the more I drove the more I realized I was completely lost it was one of those stretches of road where it felt like no one had been through in ages trees on either side the Sky starting to darken and not another car in sight after what felt like an hour of driving aimlessly I saw a sign that said there was a town up ahead it wasn't on my GPS but I figured it might have a gas station maybe a place to

stop and ask for directions at this point my gas gauge was dipping low and my phone had no signal so I didn't have much of a choice the town wasn't far off there wasn't any grand entrance no signs welcoming me it just sort of appeared the buildings were old like something out of a different time brick and wood some of them boarded up I remember thinking it felt abandoned I drove slowly down the Main Street looking for signs of Life a gas station a convenience store anything but the streets were empty no cars no people

no lights and the windows it was like the place had been frozen in time and then forgotten I pulled over near what looked like a g General Store the windows were dusty but there were shelves inside though they looked bare I turned off the engine and sat there for a minute listening nothing just the sound of my own breathing in the soft Creek of my car settling that's when I noticed how quiet it was no wind no birds no distant hum of anything I got out of the car thinking I could maybe knock on a

door see if anyone was around as soon as I stepped out the air fell thick I can't explain it but it was like everything around me was holding its breath I walked over to the General Store and tried the door it was locked of course I looked up and down the street hoping for some sign of life but there was nothing I started walking just to get a better look at the place it wasn't a big town but as I made my way down the road I started noticing things small things like one of the

street lights had its bolt broken but not shattered more like it had been taken apart piece by piece a window on a nearby house had a curtain pulled back just slightly as if someone had been peeking out and let it fall into place when they saw me I was getting the feeling in my stomach you know the one like when you walk into a room and know someone's been there but there's no one in sight I turned around ready to go back to my car and get out of there but when I looked back something

felt different I couldn't put my finger on it at first the car was still there the street still empty but it was like the air had shifted the hairs on the back of my neck stood up and I had the sudden urge to walk faster I glanced at the buildings as I passed and I swear I saw a shadow move inside one of them but when I stopped to look there was nothing I was almost back to my car when I heard a sound it was faint like a whisper or a sigh but it was

enough to make me freeze I turned slowly trying to pinpoint where it came from across the street there was an Alleyway between two buildings dark narrow nothing special but something about it felt wrong like someone was standing just inside the Shadows watching me I took a step back heart racing and turned to get to my car as fast as I could without breaking into a run my keys were in my hand and I was fumbling to unlock the door when I heard it again this time louder it was a draging sound like something heavy being

pulled across concrete I didn't turn around I didn't want to see what was making that noise my hands were shaking so bad I almost dropped the keys but I got the door door open and slid inside slamming it shut behind me I locked the doors started the car and hit the gas I pulled out fast tires screeching against the pavement as I sped down the street I caught a glimpse in the rearview mirror and for just a second I saw someone standing in the middle of the road where my car had been they weren't moving

just standing there watching me drive away I didn't slow down I kept driving turning onto the first road that led out of town not caring where it took me I kept checking the mirror half expecting to see someone following me but there was nothing no sign of anyone it took me a while to find a main road again and by the time I did it was almost dark my phone still had no signal but I didn't care I was far enough away from that place and that's all that mattered I don't know what that town

was or who was there I don't know if they were following me or if it was all in my head but I'm never going back to find out something wasn't right about that place I've never felt fear like that before like someone was right there watching waiting for me to make the wrong move I got home late that night way later than I should have I didn't tell anyone what happened mostly because I didn't know how to explain it without sounding crazy but I haven't stopped thinking about it I wasn't even supposed to be out

there that day it was one of those lazy weekends where I plan to stay in maybe catch up on some shows or whatever but the the Sun was shining and I got restless so I crapped my backpack filled it with some snacks in a water bottle and decided to head out to the Old Quarry it's a place I'd heard about from some friends an abandoned site just outside town but I'd never actually been they said it was quiet peaceful a good spot to clear your head the drive out was uneventful just miles of flat empty

road the kind you can lose yourself on if you're not paying attention by the time I reached the turnoff of the Quarry the sky had started to Cloud over but I wasn't too worried I figured I'd be in and out in an hour or two just a quick hike and then back home I parked near a rusted old gate that looked like it hadn't been touched in years there wasn't a soul around the place was completely abandoned no cars no houses no sounds except for the wind and the crunch of gravel under my boots as

I walked it was eerie but also kind of nice I liked being out there alone just me and my thoughts the quy itself was huge a deep pit carved into the Earth with sheer rock walls on all sides you could see where they used to M the stone layers and layers of rock exposed like the Earth had been peeled back the CR was littered with broken Machinery rusted out trucks and piles of rubble it was like stepping into another world one that had been forgotten a long time ago I've walked around the edge of the

Quarry for a while just taking it all in the drop down into the pit was steep maybe 50 or 60 ft and there were no fences or anything to stop you from going over the edge if you weren't careful I found a spot where the slope wasn't too bad more of a gradual incline and decided to make my way down into the quy itself it didn't look that difficult I've done my fair share of hiking and climbing before so I figured it wouldn't be a big deal at first it wasn't the crow was loose a

mix of dirt and small rocks but I took it slow and kept my balance I made it about halfway down when I heard it a low Rumble like distant Thunder I stopped looked around but the sky was still clear enough that's when the CR under my feet shifted just to look little at first then more suddenly the whole slope started to give way I tried to move to get out of the way but I was too slow the crown collapsed beneath me and before I knew it I was sliding down rocks and dirt tumbling all

around me I crafted anything I could but there was nothing solid to hold on to I hit the bottom hard the wind knocked out of me dust and debris flying everywhere when when it finally stopped I was lying flat on my back at the bottom of the Quarry covered in dirt my legs scraped up from the fall I sat up slowly coughing trying to catch my breath I wasn't hurt too bad just shaking up but when I looked up I realized how far I'd Fallen the slope I come down was now a pile of rubble

too loose to climb back up the walls of the Quarry were sheer with no easy way out I was stuck at first I didn't panic I figured I could find another way out there had to be something a path a ladder maybe even an old road that led out of the pit I started walking scanning the walls for any kind of break or opening but as I made my way around the perimeter of the Quarry it became clear that there was no easy way out the walls were too high too Steep and I didn't have

any climbing here I was completely trapped down there that's when I noticed them at first I thought I was seeing things I looked up to the top of the Quarry where the cliffs met the sky and there they were figures standing at the edge just looking down at me I squinted trying to get a better look but they were too far away to make out any details there were at least four or five of them just standing there Motionless I waved shouted up at them hey can you help me I'm stuck down here no response

they didn't move just kept standing there watching me I felt a chill run down my spine maybe they hadn't heard me I thought maybe they couldn't see me from that distance I waved again more frantically this time and shouted louder hey I need help can you hear me still nothing they didn't even Flinch it was like they were statues just standing at the edge staring down into the pit I tried to tell myself they were just random people maybe some hikers or locals would come to check out the Quarry but something about the way they

were standing so still so quiet unnerved me I started to get desperate it I shouted again my voice cracking please I'm stuck down here I need help and then one of them moved slowly one of the figures stepped closer to the edge leaned forward just slightly as if to get a better look at me I felt a surge of hope maybe they were finally going to help but instead of calling down or making any kind of gesture the figure just stood there peering down at me like I was some kind of curiosity and then one

by one the others stepped forward too all of them standing right at the edge now looking down at me I backed away my heart pounding something was wrong why weren't they saying anything why weren't they helping I didn't know what to do I couldn't just stand there waiting for them to make a move I had to find a way out and fast I turned and started walking again trying to keep my focus on the walls of the cor looking for anything any handhold any ledge I could use to climb out but the whole time I

could feel their eyes on me watching my every move I walked the entire perimeter of the Quarry and there was nothing no exit no ladder no tools left behind that I could use I was completely trapped I tried to climb the walls a few times but The Rock was too unstable Every Time I grabbed a handhold it crumbled under my fingers sending me sliding back down my hands were bleeding my leg shaking from the effort but I kept trying because the alternative staying down there with those people watching me was worse after what felt like

hours I collapsed onto the ground exhausted and terrified I looked up again and they were still there still watching but now one of them had started to move slowly deliberately they began to walk along the edge of the Quarry tracing the same path I had just walked the others followed keeping their eyes on me the whole time I don't know why but that's when I finally lost it I scrambled to my feet and started shouting again my voice horse from the dust and fear what do you want why won't you help me no answer just

the sound of their footsteps slow and steady as they circled the top of the Quarry they were closer now moving in sync like a group of predators closing in on their prey I backed away stumbling over the loose rocks my heart hammering in my chest I didn't know what they were planning but I knew I couldn't stay down there much longer I had to get out even if it meant risking another Landslide or hurting myself in the process I started climbing again my fingers digging into the dirt my feet slipping on the loose rocks I

didn't care how much it hurt I didn't care how many times I fell I just had to get out away from those people away from whatever they were planning to do I was halfway up the wall when I heard it a voice soft and low tarried on the wind it wasn't coming from the figures above it was coming from behind me down in the pit I froze my hands clinging to the rock my body shaking with exhaustion and fear slowly I turned my head just enough to see over my shoulder there at the bottom of

the Quarry was another figure standing perfectly still watching me I never thought a drive through the countryside would turn into something like this I had taken the back roads after leaving my friend's house late at night enjoying the quiet and the stars there was something peaceful about it until it happened I was cruising along the radio playing softly when out of nowhere a tear darted across the road I slammed on the brakes but it was too late the thud echoed in the silence and my heart sank as I felt my car shutter from the impact

I pulled over to the side of the road shaking the deer lay still on the pavement I didn't want to look but I had to I stepped out of the car my legs feeling weak the tear was alive but injured it struggled its eyes wi with fear I stood there for a moment feeling helpless I had no idea what to do I couldn't call anyone I had no signal out here the last thing I wanted was to just leave it there to suffer I took a deep breath and got back into the car I had

to think maybe I could find a house nearby ask for help I cracked my phone but there was still no signal I looked around trying to figure out where I was it was pitch dark and all I could see were Fields stretching out in every direction then I noticed a light in the distance it flickered like a lantern maybe from a farmhouse or a barn I felt a little relief I could walk there maybe get help for the deer or at least call someone so I locked the car and headed toward the light my art

still racing from the accident I I walked along the edge of the road the gravel crunching under my shoes the fields on either side of me seemed endless I had only gone a few hundred feet when I turned and looked back my car was just a tiny dark shape against the backdrop of the moonlet road I felt a twinch of anxiety but brushed it off I focused on the light ahead after a while I reached the edge of a cornfield the tall stalks loomed over me Swain gently in the night Breeze I could see the

light now glowing warmly from what looked like a small farmhouse at the other end of the field I figured it would be faster to cut through the corn than walk all the way around it I stepped into the rose the leaves brushing against my arms making a soft rustling sound as I walked the light seemed to Flicker and the air felt thick around me I tried to keep calm reminding myself that it was just a cornfield I picked my way through the rows trying to keep my bearings but everything looked the same I felt a

little disoriented as if the stalks were closing in around me I stopped and listened at first there was nothing but the sound of the wind but then I heard it a rustle it was soft almost too soft to notice I froze my heart pounding in my chest it was was coming from somewhere behind me deeper into the corn field I looked back but I could not see anything I shook my head trying to convince myself it was just the wind playing tricks I took a few more steps but the feeling of being watched settled over

me like a heavy blanket I turned again scanning the rows for any sign of movement nothing just the Stillness of the field I took a deep breath telling myself I was being ridiculous then I heard it again a soft rustling but this time closer I felt the hairs on my neck stand on end I was not alone I turned quickly trying to catch a glimpse of whatever was behind me I half expected to see a deer or maybe a raccoon but there was nothing just the empty Rose stretching out before me I kept moving but

my pace quickened each step felt like a Trum beat in my ears I could hear the rustling again this time to my left then to my right someone was moving through the corn I couldn't see them but I could feel it a presence just beyond the edges of my fishion I picked up my Pace adrenaline flooding my veins hello I called out my voice shaky is anyone there silence the rustling stopped I could feel my heart pounding harder in my chest I had to get out of the cornfield I turned and tried to head toward

the light but every direction felt the same Panic clawed my throat I could not just stand there waiting I started to jog weaving through the rows but the sound came back right behind me it was no longer just rustling it was footsteps slow and deliberate like someone was stalking me I turned again but I saw nothing just the dark shapes of the stalks towering over me like they were closing in I pushed myself harder my breath coming in sharp gasps I could not let them catch me the light ahead seemed farther away flickering like a

distant star I kept my eyes fixed on it praying it would be my salvation then I Heard a Voice Voice Low and muffled echoing through the corn where are you going it was right behind me I stumbled my feet tripping over the uneven ground I didn't know who it was but I felt a wave of fear wash over me I had to keep moving please just leave me alone I shouted desperation creeping into my voice I felt the tears prick at the corners of my eyes I sprinted toward the light the darkness closing in around

me I could not let them catch me as I ran I could hear them moving again rushing through the rows and the sound was getting closer I felt the Panic clawing in my chest but I focused on the light I was almost there finally I broke free from the cornfield bursting out into the open space just beyond the light was blinding and I squinted against it I stumbled forward and there it was The Farmhouse I rushed toward the door pounding on it with all my strength help please I yelled desperation spilling out in my voice

I could hear the rustling behind me still the footsteps echoing in the distance the door swung open and an older man stood there looking confused what's going on he asked his brow furrowed I didn't wait for him to say more I pushed past him gasping for air someone is in the cornfield they're following me he glanced behind me his face going pale get inside now I rushed in and he slammed the door shut locking it tight I could still hear the rustling outside and I pressed my back against the door my heart racing who was

it the man asked looking alarmed did you see them no but they were following me I could hear them moving through the rows I was shaking now trying to catch my breath the man peered through a small window looking out into the darkness stay here he said moving toward the door please don't go out there they could be be dangerous he turned back to me his eyes steady I have to make sure you're safe I watched him grab a flashlight and a baseball bat before he opened the door I wanted to scream at him to

stay inside to protect himself but I felt Frozen he stepped outside and I could see him shining the flashlight into the corn field the bean danced around Illuminating the rose but I could not see anything just darkness and the faint sound of rustling is anyone out there he called out his voice steady but I could hear the tension behind it the rustling stopped again there was a moment of silence and I held my breath waiting then I heard a low laugh cruel and mocking echoing from the darkness get back inside I shouted Panic rising in

my throat I was terrified the man turned back toward me but before he could say anything the rustling erupted again lot this time as if whatever had been lurking in the cornfield was moving toward us now he yelled rushing back toward the door and I flung myself out of the way just as he slammed it shot behind him we stood there Breathing heavily listening as the sound continued but it was fading now drifting off into the distance who were they I asked my voice trembling he shook his head I don't know but you're safe now

as I stood there still shaking I realized I was finally out of the field away from whatever had been stalking me but the fear lingered the night was dark the world beyond the door still uncertain I had always been drawn to the outdoors finding peace in the Stillness of the trees and the quiet of the mountains when I heard about a survivalist group leading deep in the wilderness I thought it would be the perfect chance to learn new skills and be part of a community that shared my passion the advertisement promised a week of training

teamwork and the thrill of living off the land I signed up without a second thought eager to escape the T chaos of my everyday life the drive to the compound was longer than I expected I turned off the main road following a narrow dirt path that sneaked through dense Woods as I drove deeper into the forest the trees loomed overhead blocking out much of the daylight I felt a thrill of excitement mixed with a hint of apprehension it was remote and beautiful far from the noise of the city when I arrived I was greeted by

a small group of people gathered around a fire pit they looked rugged and prepared dressed in survival gear and boots cak with dirt the leader a tall man with a long beard and piercing blue eyes stepped forward to welcome me Welcome to our home I'm kidan you will find that you are among friends here I shook his hand feeling a firm crep the others smiled at me their expressions warmed me at carded it felt strange like they were sizing me up I brushed it off reminding myself that I was there to learn they showed me

to a small cabin where I would be staying it was rustic but cozy surrounded by towering Pines the first day was filled with activities we practiced building shelters starting fires and identifying edible plants I was having a great time even if I felt a little out of my element the group worked well together and I felt like I was becoming part of something bigger but as the sun dipped below the Horizon casting lawn shadows I began to notice something off about the Dynamics within the group that night we gathered around the fire Gideon spoke with

fervor sharing stories about survival and the importance of preparedness the way he spoke was almost hypnotic his eyes gleaming in the fire light in the coming years there will be challenges that test our resolve we must be ready to protect what is ours trust and loyalty are Paramount you must understand that once you join this group You Are Family the others nodded in agreement their faces serious I felt a chill run down my spine I wondered if they had taken this a bit too far but I tried to shake off my discomfort I had signed

up for a survival experience after all I needed to give it time the next day was more intense we hiked deep into the forest learning to track animals and set traps I found myself enjoying the lessons but there was an undercurrent of tension that I could not ignore when we returned to the compound I overheard Gideon speaking to a couple of the other members in hush tones their faces were tight with worry I felt an urge to know what they were talking about but I didn't want to intrude that evening while the others were preparing

dinner I decided to take a walk around the compound the air was cold and the sounds of nature enveloped me I wandered toward the edge of the property or a chain link fence surrounded the area I noticed several warning signs about trespassing it felt a bit unsettling but I brushed it off thinking they were just being cautious as I turned to head back I spotted a small hidden among the trees my curiosity got the better of me I approached it feeling the pull of the unknown the door creaked while I pushed it open inside I

saw a few shelves stocked with supplies but what caught my eye was a table covered with various tools and equipment that looked out of place my heart raced as I noticed the items a few old Firearms ropes and even something that looked like a hunting knife before I could process what I was seeing I heard footsteps behind me I turned to find Gideon standing at the entrance his expression dark what are you doing here he asked his voice low and dangerous I stammered I was just looking around he stepped inside blocking my way this is

not a place for Outsiders you should know better than to wander off I felt a surge of fear as he moved closer I'm sorry I did not mean to intrude I will go back now Gideon's eyes narrowed you need to understand something this group is not just about survival skills it is about loyalty if you cannot follow the rules you may not be welcome here much longer my mind raced what had I gotten myself into I will follow the rules I promise I said my voice shaky he regarded me for a moment then nodded slightly

good we look out for one another but you must never forget that leaving is not an option I felt a chill run through me I nodded trying to mass my fear of course I will leave leave kitan stepped aside allowing me to pass I hurried back to the main area my heart racing the atmosphere had shifted and I could feel the weight of his words pressing down on me I had thought I was among friends but now I felt trapped the next day things only got worse during a group exercise I overheard Gideon speaking to

a few members in low tones their expressions grave I caught Snippets of their conversation words like control loyalty and no one leaves the realization HD me like a punch to the gut this was not just a survival group it was something much darker Panic search within me I needed to leave I could not stay there any longer as the day progressed I kept my distance searching for a chance to escape without drawing attention I planned to leave under the cover of Darkness hoping to navigate back to my car that night I waited until the others

settled down around the fire the flickering Flames cast Eerie Shadows on their faces as they shared stories I slipped away quietly careful not to make any noise I crept through the trees my heart pounding the Moonlight guided me as I hurried toward the fence just as I reached the edge I heard a voice behind me me where do you think you were going it was kidon standing there with several members behind him their expressions serious you were not thinking of leaving or you I froze my mind racing I was just going for a walk I

needed some air Gideon stepped closer his eyes cold and unyielding you do not understand you are part of this now there is no going back if you leave it will not end well for you fear cript me I had to think quickly I just need to give my things I promise I will come back he shook his head slowly a smile creeping onto his lips but it did not reach his eyes you do not get it no one leaves this place alive the grou shifted closer and I felt trapped Panic searched through me I took

a step back glancing for an escape I could not stay there I had to get away suddenly I turned and ran darting through the trees I could hear them shouting behind me but I didn't look back my heart raced as I stumbled through the underbrush branches scratching in my skin the sounds of their footsteps echoed in my ears growing Clos sir I kept running adrenaline pushing me forward I had to reach my car I could not let them catch me I ran blindly praying for the dirt road to appear my HS burned and I felt

like I might collapse but I pressed on finally I burst through the trees and found the road my car was just a few yards away a Beacon of Hope in the dark I fumbled for my tee KN my hand shaking as I unlocked the door I jumped in and slammed it shut locking it tight I could still hear their voices distant but approaching I turned the ignition and the engine lar to life I threw the car into K spinning the tires in the dirt as I raced down the road I didn't look back focusing only

on the way ahead the trees blurred past and I felt a rush of relief wash over me I troll for what felt like an eternity the fear slowly fading as I put distance between myself and the compound my heart was still racing but I knew I was safe I had escaped but I could not shake the feeling of dread I had narrowly avoided something dark and twisted as I drove away from the Wilderness I promised myself I would never let my curiosity lead me into a situation like that again the storm hit suddenly one moment

the sky was a dull Ray and the next it exploded into a cacophony of thunder and torrential rain I was driving back home from visiting a friend in the next town over when the first flash of lightning lit up the sky the winds picked up bending the trees and tossing debris around like it was nothing I knew I needed to find shelter as I pulled over to the side of the road I spotted a small field ahead with what looked like an old storm shelter nestled Among The Tall Grass I could hardly see it through

the Sheets of Rain but it seemed like the only option I had I threw my car into park and jumped out the rain instantly soaking me to the Bone I ran toward at the shelter heart pounding with both fear and adrenaline the door was Heavy made of rusted metal I pulled and pushed until it creaked open revealing a dark damp interior I stepped inside shivering as I closed the door behind me I could hardly make out anything in the dim light but it smelled of MW and Earth my phone had lost signal the moment the

storm began and I realized I could be trapped here for a while I listened to the storm rage outside the wind howling like a wild animal I took a few cautious steps inside feeling the cold CR beneath my feet that is when I heard it a low sound like someone breathing my heart skipped a beat and I froze I was now alone hello I called out trying to keep my voice steady no answer came the only sound was the storm reaching outside and that persistent breathing I turned slowly scanning the Shadows but I could not

see anyone my instinct screamed me to leave but the storm was relentless pounding against the shelter's M roof hello I tried again lot of this time a voice broke through the darkness who's there it was rough grally as if the speaker hadn't used it in years I I'm just seeking Shelter From The Storm I did not mean to intrude my words sounded weak even to my own ears you shouldn't be here the voice said closer now I could see a figure shifting in the shadows illuminated by The Faint light seeping through the cracks in the

walls this place is not for you my stomach churned I'll leave as soon as the storm passes I just need a a moment I took a step back toward the door but my feet felt like lead leaving is not an option the voice said a hint of something menacing creeping into his tone I took a deep breath trying to compose myself please I will not cause any trouble I just need to wait for the storm to end the figure stepped forward and I finally saw him he was tall and thin with unkempt hair and and

wild eyes that seemed to Glow in the dim light he looked disheveled as if he had been living in this shelter for a long time the sight of him sent a chill down my spine you have no idea what you are asking for he said his voice dripping with a strange kind of calmness people like you do not belong here this is my Al I understand I replied my voice trembling I will stay quiet I promise just until the storm passes he tilted his head studying me with those piercing eyes why do you think you

can just come in here you think you can just walk away once you feel safe I backed away slowly looking for an escape but there was none the walls felt like they were closing in the air growing thick with tension I do not want any trouble I just need to leave leave he laughed a low unsettling sound you do not get to leave I have made this place my home and you will learn to respect that I glanced around searching for something anything I could use to defend myself there was nothing but darkness and dampness

and my heart raced as Panic set in please let me go I will not tell anyone I was here do you think that matters he asked stepping closer you came here uninvited you have to learn the consequences of your actions he reached for me and I instinctively stepped back my back hitting the cold metal of the wall please I begged my voice breaking you should not have come here he said almost like he was trying to teach me a lesson the wildness in his eyes grew more intense and I felt the gravity of his intentions

I needed to escape I could not let him have me I took a deep breath and suddenly charged for the door pushing past him with all my strength the door was still heavy and I struggled to pull it open but he was right behind me his hand CED my arm yanking me back I twisted in fought Panic overwhelming me let go I screamed kicking out at him he stumbled back surprised by my sudden strength I seized the opportunity and flown myself against the door finally managing to force it open the Wind and Rain rushed in

howling like a beast and I stumbled outside the storm was still reaching but I did not care I ran my feet slipping in the mud as I sprinted toward my car I could hear him shouting behind me but I did not see stop I had to make it out I could not let him catch me I reached my car fumbling for the keys as I jumped inside I locked the doors Breathing heavily as I glanced back at the shelter the figure stood in the doorway rain pouring down his face a wild look in his eyes

I turned the ignition and the engine roared to life my hands trembled as I shifted into drive glancing back once more before speeding away I drove as fast as I could the rain pelting my windshield blurring my fish in every second felt like an eternity but I kept my foot pressed down eager to put as much distance between myself and that storm shelter as possible the road was familiar again and soon I was back on the main Highway my heart still racing I did not stop until I reached home slamming the door shut behind me

and locking it tight I could still hear the storm raging outside but now I felt safe the fear slowly faded replaced by the weight of what I had just escaped that storm shelter was no place for anyone I knew I would never be able to shake the memory of that man and the dark intent behind his words I learned that sometimes the safest places are not the ones that seem inviting but the ones you can trust I had always thought of myself as an outdors type I enjoyed hiking and exploring nature and when I decided

to take a trip to the swamps it felt like a great idea at the time I pictured the beauty of the landscape the Stillness of the water and the chance to immerse myself in something wild and untouched what I did not consider was how easy it could be to get lost the first few hours were wonderful the Sun was shining through the trees and the sounds of the swamp were oddly calming I followed a narrow path that Twisted through the cypress trees and I felt completely at ease as I walked I snapped a few pictures

enjoying the vibrant greens and Browns of the landscape but as the day wore on the sky darkened and I lost my sense of direction I knew I should have turned back but I pushed deeper into the swamp convinced I could find my way out I stepped through the mock and Meer each step becoming harder than the last the trees crew denser and the air thickened with humidity soon the path disappeared altogether and I was surrounded by a maze of trees and water I felt a creeping Panic the kind that tightened in your chest and made

it hard hard to breathe after what felt like hours of wandering I realized I had no idea where I was my phone had no signal and the sun was sinking lower in the sky I could hear the distant calls of birds settling in for the night and The Quiet Sounds of the swamp felt unnerving I knew I had to find shelter or risk spending the night out here as I continued to stumble through the underbrush I heard voices they were faint at first just a low murmur but they grew louder my heart raced with hope

as I followed the sounds maybe they could help me find my way back I emerged from the trees and into a small clearing where I saw a group of people gathered around a fire they looked rough dressed in worn clothing and they turned to stare at me as I stepped into the light hey there one of them called out a tall man with a scruffy beard you lost I nodded relieved to see them yes I got turned around out here I was hoping you could help me the group exchanged glances and I could feel a

strange tension in the air the man smiled but there was something unsettling about it of course you can come to our camp we'll take care of you I hesitated for a moment but the thought of being lost and alone in the swamp filled me with Dread thank you I said feeling a mixture of gratitude and unease they beckoned me closer and I join them around the fire the warmth felt good against the cool evening air the group consisted of five people the man who had spoken a woman with long tangled hair and three others who

sat quietly their expressions unreadable they seemed friendly enough though I felt a strange chill as I looked into their eyes where are you from the woman asked just a town nearby I thought I could handle the swamp on my own I replied forcing a laugh to ease the tension you are brave to venture out here alone the man said most people don't know what they're getting into I see that now I admitted looking around the camp the flickering Fire Light danced across their faces but the Shadows made it hard to read their expressions let us

get you something to eat the man offered he reached into a cooler and pulled out a couple of cans we have plenty to share I was starving so I accepted the food tasted good but I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off as I ate I watched the others closely they were too quiet too focused on me I started to notice how the exchanged glances how their smiles never quite reached their eyes do you come here often I asked trying to make conversation sometimes the woman replied it's a good place to get away from

everything no distractions just the swamp and us the man nodded his gaze steady on me this place is safe we take care of our own a knot tightened in my stomach the way he said it made me feel like I wasn't part of their group like I was something else entirely I glanced around again trying to formulate a plan in my mind I needed to get out of there but how as the night deepened the fire crackled and popped and the Shadows grew longer I felt the urge to leave but I didn't want to raise

suspicion I casually looked around the campsite searching for an Escape Route the trees formed a thick wall around us and I could hear the sounds of the swamp in the distance my heart pounded louder as I started to think about my options why don't you stay the night the man suggested suddenly it is dangerous out here alone you can rest and leave in the morning no I really should go I replied trying to keep my voice steady I appreciate your hospitality but I need to get back the group exchanged looks again the tension in the

air felt thicker now and I realized that I needed to leave immediately I made my decision and stood up thank you for the food but I need to go now I said firmly the man's expression shifted his smile disappearing you do not understand it is not safe for you out there I can take care of myself I insisted you do not have a choice he said his voice low and menacing you are not leaving fear coursed through me and I turned to run but the woman blocked my path you do not want to upset him

she said her tone now cold and threatening adrenaline surged and I pushed past her bolting into the darkness of the swamp the crown was uneven and I stumbled over roots and muck but I kept running I could hear them shouting behind me their voices blending into the sounds of the night the swamp felt alive around me the sounds of insects and animals rising in a frenzy I was disoriented the trees looming over me like giants I forced myself to keep moving to think I needed to find my way back to the main path back to

my car I ran blindly through the underbrush my breath coming in red gasps I could hear them crashing through the trees behind me getting closer my heart raced as I darted between the cypress trees praying I would find an opening a way out finally I spotted a faint light through the trees a glimmer of hope I pushed toward it crashing through the thick brush and stumbled into a small clearing it was the main path her Leaf washed over me but I had no time to rest I could still hear them coming I turned and ran

down the path forcing myself to keep moving the sound of their footsteps echoed behind me and I could feel the weight of their intentions closing in the path narrowed and I saw the glow of headlights in the distance my car was just ahead with every ounce of strength I had left I sprinted toward it my heart pounding in my chest I reached my car fumbled for my keys and unlocked the door I jumped inside and slammed the door shut locking it tight I could hear them shouting but I didn't look back I turned the key

in the ignition and the engine roared to life I peeled out of that swamp the tires spinning in the mud as I sped away I could still hear the distant shouts fading behind me as I drove toward the safety of the road the weight of fear slowly lifted as I put miles between myself and that camp I never went back to the swamps again that night changed something in me I learned that not everyone you meet his good intentions and sometimes the Wilderness can be far more dangerous than you realize the first night at the

cabin was quiet too quiet I had rented it for a weekend retreat a break from my busy life the wood surrounded the place and I felt excited to be away from everything even if it was a bit isolated I arrived late and spent the evening settling in admiring The Rustic charm and the Stillness of the night I woke up the next morning to the soft light filtering Through the Windows I stretched and glanced outside but something felt off the air was thick and the Stillness outside felt heavy I stepped out onto the portch and noticed

the crown was different there were ropes and wooden Stakes sticking out of the dirt but my sleepiness clouded my thoughts I chocked it up to the remnants of an old hunting camp as I wandered the property I found more of them traps they were crude but effective some looked like be traps While others were simple snares made from twine and sticks a cult shiver ran down my spine who would set these up here I backed away slowly feeling a sudden sense of vulnerability I was alone and there was no selfservice out here I returned inside

locking the door I tried to shake the feeling pouring myself a cup of coffee and forcing myself to relax but the feeling lingered gnawing at me like a persistent itch I sat in front of the fireplace staring into the Flames listening for any sign of movement outs side hours passed and the uneasy feeling only grew stronger suddenly I heard a sound outside a crack of a branch my heart raced as I turned to look out the window I saw a figure in the distance he stood still partially hidden among the trees he was dressed in

worn camouflage clothing and his eyes were fixed on the cabin I felt a rush of panic who was was he what did he want I watched him for what felt like an eternity he seemed to be studying the cabin and then he began moving toward it my instinct screamed me to hide so I ducked down behind the couch barely breathing I could hear my arc pounding in my ears a terrifying drum beat of impending doom I could see through the window just enough to watch him approach he stopped in front of the door looking up

up and down the sides of the cabin I wanted to scream to run but I stayed silent Frozen in place after what felt like hours he finally moved away from the door but my relief was shortlived I could hear the sound of the door creaking open he had found another way in I crawled quietly to the back of the cabin searching for a place to hide the man's voice rang out low and cily I know you are in there the door slammed shut and I heard footsteps moving through the cabin Panic flooded my mind he

was here for me there was nowhere to go no one to call for help I pressed myself against the wall my breath shallow and quiet praying he wouldn't find me then I heard him he was closer now moving through the rooms I just want to talk you should not have come here I was trembling tears Welling in my eyes I couldn't think straight I needed to get out the back window was my only option I took a deep breath my heart pounding loudly in my chest I tiptoed toward the window praying he wouldn't hear me

just as I reached the window I heard him again you cannot hide forever I pushed the window open and it creaked loudly I froze praying he wouldn't come to investigate I squeezed through the opening and Dro down to the crown outside I landed hard pain shooting through my ankle but I had no time to dwell on it I had to run I darted away from the cabin weaving through the trees trying to remember the way I had come in I could hear him behind me his footsteps crunching through the underbrush growing closer I stumbled through

the woods branches slapping against my arms and legs The Sting of the leaves sharp against my skin the sound of my heart filled my ears drowning out everything else I ran as fast as I could adrenaline pushing me forward until I finally broke into a clearing ahead I saw the road I could hardly believe it I pushed myself harder willing my legs to move faster I reached the edge of the clearing my breath ragged as I burst onto the gravel road I turned to look back and there he was standing at the edge of the

trees watching me I could see his eyes cold and predatory I didn't waste a second I ran to my car fumbling with the keys my hand shaking I jumped inside and locked the door gasping for breath I turned the key in the ignition and the engine more to life I sped away from the cabin my heart still racing as I drove I glanced in the rearview mirror half expecting to see him chasing after me but there was nothing only the quiet Woods disappearing behind me I left that place F never to return