Pocketful of Short Stories

The Man Outside

It was only mid July but the rain outside was so unnatural. The weather was clear just an hour ago, and now it's so dark that it makes you feel like an 8 year old, scared and begging to sleep with mommy tonight.

Unfortunately I never had that privilege. No parents, no record of any other family. For 13 years I was raised by my foster parents until I decided to make it on my own and here I am now, 24 and living alone with my pet Poodle, Piper for 4 years now. I do have a decent salary and a nice home, I'll give you that. But it just feels so lonely sometimes.

That night I had an uneasy feeling in my stomach. I opened the door to my bedroom and walked straight towards the full sized window opposite to the door. It's gonna be a rough night, I think to myself.

I lay on my bed and put my phone on charge on the table beside me. Just as I was about to call it a night, I saw something that terrifies me to this day. A man. A very long man with a hat standing right outside the window. I could never forget the chills it gave me. Those long arms holding something. Most probably a knife. I couldn't make out his face only the outline of his figure and it was enough to make me believe that I was in deep deep trouble. But there was no way he could get inside right? I thought to myself. I know the glass wouldn't break that easily and I'm sure I closed and locked all the windows and doors before coming to bed, except my room's, for Piper's sake. Yes, I'm sure. With the fear in my head I started reaching towards my phone without taking my eyes off of the man who was still standing there without any movement.

 Just as I was about to take the phone I saw something strange. Piper was also outside. She barked and my spine tingled as I realized that she was in the room behind mine. I was....I was seeing a reflection..