Check the door

As you push yourself up from the couch and shuffle toward the door, the knocking continues—steady, relentless, unnatural. It never hesitates, never falters. Just a rhythmic tapping that worms its way under your skin.

But the moment you reach the door, it goes silent.

The air begins to feel thick, expectant.

Heart pounding, you press your eye to the peephole.

Look