The shadows cast by the swaying curtains created looming figures on the wall. The window in the master bedroom, carelessly left ajar by Mrs. Mayers in her hurry to leave for the neighbor’s party let a light breeze flow in to the room.

A cartoon played on the television, muted accidentally by the young Mayers boy as he turned over in his sleep. The screeching silence was broken by the sudden opening of the back door.

The bottom step creaked as the clock struck midnight.

Silence.

Another step creaked.

Pin drop silence.

Another creak sounded, much closer to the landing this time.

A dark cloaked figure turned on his heels to face the firm oak door to the master bedroom.

The door handle turned silently, and the door slowly swung on its hinges. The blue light from the television screen outlined the tall silhouette of the hooded figure as he stepped into the room. With a dramatic swish of his long cloak, he lowered his hood.

The Mayers boy opened his eyes.

Their eyes locked.