The streetlights don’t help much down this alley

But I’ve already strayed too far into the dark.

It wouldn’t make much sense to go back now.

I only hear the sounds of the echoes of my steps bouncing off the cement and walls.

But I still fear something behind me.

A shadow casted from the entrance took shape below mine.

The sounds of our steps combined.

These naturally long strides come in handy.

If they actually start catching up to me, I’d know when to run.

My legs race with my thoughts; too quick to assume.

My moods tied to whoever wins thinking “what could they do?”

The something stays near but its presence is felt.

I’d look back but you should feel the tension yourself.

Familiar yet unknown As if it’s happened before.

But, before, I knew the area.

Now, I’m not really sure.

I’m more towards the end.

It’s the only way forward.

Their shadow gone, but I still hear the steps hit the floor A lot closer than it should be.

I’ll regret not running now.

I run and catch a glimpse of their long silhouette.

One arm reaching out to me as if to collect.

It bares its teeth like it’s playing a game.

With a smile so strained, it makes you think of the pain.

I reach the streetlight at the end just right before it gets me

I look back one more time and see the alley’s empty.