Faint noise, throw off the covers, pad to face the closet.

Four ways to be caught, one to each side, cat and mouse begins.

Pitch black bedroom, flashlight in hand, something approaching.

Run to the left, no sound, check the hall.

Eyes appear, disappear, light flickers, door won’t stay shut for long.

Foot of the bed, stand your ground, monsters melt to shadows.

Spin around, closet moves, hold against the fear.

Open the door, cute plush on the floor, terror washes away.

Sit down, take a breath, laugh softly into silence.

No more noises, nothing coming, finally, made it.

Right door creaks open.