This is a good one to tell to children–it is simple but it elicits quite a response.
Creak, what was that? It is a faint sound, in the distance– but I hear it.
Crack, was that something snapping? Or is someone trampling about?
I am in my room reading. It is quiet where I sit except for the fire burning.
I hear a creak–it is just the old house settling? I am letting my imagination get the best of me.
I hear another Crack– perhaps it is just a small animal outside my window.
Whoosh… was that the wind?
Creak, I bravely chuckle at the sound.
Crack, how could these simple sounds have made me so nervous?
Whoosh, it must be really breezy tonight.
Thump, did I hear that in the house?
As I stare into the fire my nerves are rattled. I need to regain my composure.
Creak…
Crack…
Whoosh, will these sounds never cease?
Thump, thump, thump…
Closer, it must be getting closer. I put down my book and close my eyes. I desperately try to think of something else.
Creak…
Thump…
Crack…
Thump…
Whoosh…
Thump, thump, thump… then there is a pause.
I move quietly toward the door. Another thump, I step back, yes, it is getting closer. Thump, I stare at the door trying to see through it.
Thump, I reach for the doorknob, my hand is shaking. I no longer can wait.
Creak, a loose floorboard stepped on near the door– on the other side.
Thump, I slowly open the door…
A Scream
…Then silence…