Dark Windows

A 100 word short story

I only glanced up at the old house.

The dark of the windows was complete.

Pools of midnight.

Next day, movement in the corner of my eye.

Shadows flickering.

Skittering black tendrils.

Gone before I turn.

I walk the streets. Sunlight is dying.

Bruised clouds loom. Hanging heavy. Sullen.

Returning home, gasping claustrophobia gnaws my sanity.

On the horizon, familiar darkness approaches.

Enveloping all.

When I close my eyes, I hear it like a gathering wave.

It’s at my window now.

Swirling pitch.

Scratching and squealing to be let in.

How I wish I’d never looked.

The handles turn.

I

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