The Long, Quiet Night

You creep down the basement stairs and pull the heavy door shut. The beep is softer here, but you can still hear it humming through the walls like a sleepy bee.

You wait. And wait. The sun comes up slow and pink through the tiny window. But when you climb back outside, the town is still. People stand like statues on the sidewalks. Their eyes are open, but they are far, far away, lost in dreams only they can see.

The beep keeps beeping. You are safe — but you are all alone in a town of quiet shadows. Maybe tomorrow, you will be brave enough to try again.