"3
I screamed.
So loudly, I surprised myself.
My attacker must have been surprised, too. He quickly let go of my neck.
I clutched my throat and sputtered for air.
"Cooper, will you keep it down?" a voice whispered. "You'll wake Mom and Dad!"
Huh?
Oh, man.
It was Mickey. My totally obnoxious older brother.
"Mickey! You jerk!" I cried. "You scared me to death!"
Mickey slid out from under the bed and wiped some dust off his pajamas.
"No big challenge," he muttered.
"Shut up," I snapped, rubbing my sore neck. In the mirror I could see where Mickey's hands had grabbed my throat. Dark red blotches circled my neck.
"Look what you did!" I cried. "You know I bruise easily!"
"Oh, don't be such a baby! I got you, man!" Mickey cried, grinning.
I stared furiously at my idiot brother. I wished I could wipe that grin off his face. And not get in trouble for it.
"You're a jerk!" was all I could think to say.
"Grow up!" Mickey shot back. He headed for the door, then turned around.
"Would Cooper like a little night-light next to his bed?" he asked in a tiny baby voice[...]"
