The Reflection

…

The air was heavier here than anywhere else he had been. Heavier than it should be. Thick like the world was holding its breath. Every step he took, every time his foot hit the pavement. He felt like something was watching him, a creepy sensation that sent shivers up his spine and goosebumps along his arms and legs. The feeling didn’t come from behind him, not even from the shadows surrounding him. But from everywhere and nowhere, like a wind ghosting over his neck.

His heartbeat grew louder. He could hear it in his ears. THUMP. THUMP. THUMP. Ringing louder with every step he took.

The town was silent, too silent. Even the wind seemed to be afraid to move, which freaked him out. He shook his head, trying to clear it. It’s just nerves, he told himself. New town, new start, new people. People…. He couldn’t see any people. The pricking in his skin wasn’t just anxiety; it was something much, much deeper. The slow-burning heat wrapped itself around his mind, squeezing it till his mind couldn’t breathe.

He glanced at a cracked mirror propped up against a run-down storefront, which had its fair share of vandalism. No reflection stared back—just the empty street behind him.

That’s when he first heard it. That small, breathy voice in his ear

’You don’t belong here. Leave now.’

He spun around. Nothing. But the feeling didn’t leave. And deep inside, he knew: he had to leave…