noice

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Holly had always been a cautious person. So when she heard strange noises outside her window, her instincts told her to turn off her light, lock her door, and go to sleep. She knew better than to check who or what was making those sounds. It was probably just a stray cat or a raccoon rummaging through her backyard. However, the next morning, Holly found something that changed her mind. Her garden tools were scattered and her fence gate was slightly open, as if someone had been in her backyard. Holly was terrified. She had never felt so vulnerable before and knew that it was time to upgrade her home security system. Holly immediately contacted a reputable security company and installed new cameras, motion sensors, and an alarm system. She also invested in sturdy locks and reinforced her doors and windows. Holly felt safer and more in control of her environment. Months passed, and Holly's new security system proved to be effective. She never heard any strange noises again, and she slept soundly at night. Holly felt grateful that she had trusted her instincts and taken action to protect herself and her property. She knew that her safety was worth investing in, and she felt confident that she had done the right thing.

2fer

It happened again, another murder, and Holly was no closer to catching the Eastern Bleak Killer. The media was vicious, calling Holly's team incompetent and questioning her detective work. Holly worked tirelessly, but still, no leads came her way. Desperate for a breakthrough, she turned to her long-time friend Nelson for help. It was then that he said something that didn't sit right with her. He mentioned the missing scarf, but she never told him what color it was. Her suspicion grew, and she decided to take matters into her own hands. Breaking into Nelson's home while he was out, she searched for any evidence that might link him to the murders. Her heart sank when she found pictures of all the victims in his basement. They weren't taken by law enforcement. Holly was shocked that it was her childhood friend who was the Eastern Bleak Killer. She called for his immediate arrest, and he was taken into custody. While it was hard to see her friend in handcuffs, Holly was relieved that the killer was finally off the streets. She may have lost a friend, but she gained closure for the victims and their families. Holly knew that justice had been served, and she could finally put the case to rest.

3fer

Holly sat up in bed, rubbing her eyes and listening carefully. There was a strange noise outside her window, something she couldn't quite place. She frowned, wondering if it was just her imagination playing tricks on her. She looked over at her dog, who was sleeping soundly at the foot of her bed. Maybe she should go check it out, just to be sure. She slipped out of bed quietly, careful not to wake the dog, and padded over to the window. She peered out into the darkness, straining her ears for any sound. At first, there was nothing. The night was quiet and still, the only sound the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. But then, there it was again - a faint, muffled sound, like someone was trying to break in. Holly's heart raced. She knew she should call the police, but she couldn't help feeling a sense of curiosity. Maybe she could catch whoever was making the noise, or at least figure out what was going on. She hesitated for a moment, then made up her mind. She grabbed a flashlight and crept out of the room, her dog following closely behind.

Holly's Days: Staving Short Stories, Featuring Holly.Where stories live. Discover now