“The Basement”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

Prompt: Write a story titled “The Basement”.

Something wet splashes onto my face. My eyes burst open as I gasp for breath.

Water drips off my chin and onto my new pants. The droplets soak through, creating a tingling sensation on my thighs.

Slowly, the world starts to come into focus around me.

I’m in a basement. Not just any basement; my office basement. I’ve been down here once before, when I came to get more toilet paper from storage because the custodian was sick.

Last time I was here, I was also alone. This time, I’m not.

At least, I don’t think I am.

Water runs into my eyes, blurring my vision. Through the haze, I can just barely make out the figure of someone standing in front of me. It looks like they’re holding something.

An axe.

I desperately blink the water out of my eyes. Once I’m able to see clearly again, I look around for the dark, axe-wielding figure.

They’re gone.

That’s it. I’m out of here.

I try to stand, but I can’t. I look down. I’m sitting in a chair, but nothing’s holding me down. I simply can’t stand.

I continue straining against my invisible bonds.

Suddenly, a light breeze brushes past me, blowing cool air on my cheek.

I freeze.

Hello there.

I was right; I’m not alone.

I’m so glad you’re here.

Shivers crawl up my spine. I try even harder to escape. Tears start forming in my eyes. No, I’m not a little kid anymore. I watch horror movies for fun, for crying out loud!

Let’s have some fun.

Another gust of wind. It’s stronger this time.

As my tears collect in my eyes, the figure re-appears. The axe glints in the dim light.

The wind picks up. I’m still rooted in place.

But first, let me take a good look at you.

I scream for somebody–anybody–to come help me.

The figure approaches. It stops right in front of me. Sharp teeth grin at me.

Welcome to the basement.

Final Comments: It’s been a while since I’ve written a scary story…

Overall Rating: 😳