I can hear it, tallened fingers and clawed feet scraping and scratching walls and floors. How did it get out of the attic? I had added enough strenghth to that door to make a vault green with envy.
I heard it turn again it the end of the hallway one floor above me. This would make it's 23 time walking that hall. It knew where I was, probably knew the moment it stired from its attic hole. It was taunting me. trying to drive my fear to new heights, make me panic, make me run.
That's what it really wanted, I knew it somewhere deep inside. The thrill of the chase. Bringing down it's prey to prove it's power and strength as the top predator.
I would not give it what it wanted. I will tremble and shake as I gripped the back of the chair in front of me, but I will NOT run.
I glance to the open windows around me. There, the sky was just starting to lighten with the coming dawn. So close, just a little longer.
A smash from upstairs made me jump and I barely swallowed my squeak of terror before it could escape. My grip on the chair tightened, hold out a few more minutes.
Time seemed to stretch into eternity until finally I heard and felt the growl that rummbled through the house. Then, the sound that made me close my eyes in a rush of relief. The sound of heavy steps climbing the attic stairs.
My eyes snapped open, my body filled with purpose. The moment the sun came fully over the horizon I pushed the button sitting on the seat of the chair I had held so tightly.
From the basement I heard the thud signaling the begining of my plan. This thing would not win, would not make me it's prey.
I turned and dove through the closest open window.
From inside came the roar of fire devouring everything.
I lay on the dew wet grass and watched the most beautiful dawn.
I smiled at the roar from the thing in the attic.
I am not prey.