Run for your life · Y/n story by @i_love

The evening had settled over the cul-de-sac like a blanket of quiet, the kind that made you forget the world existed beyond the four houses at the end of the street.

Alex

leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed You’re late. We ordered fifteen minutes ago.

Maxine

tossing a pillow at Marcus He’s not late, he’s just—checks her phone—okay, he’s late.

Marcus

grinning, catching the pillow She’s here now. That’s what matters. Sit down before I eat your slice.

Kaley

from the kitchen, quieter, eyes flicking toward the window Did anyone else hear the news today?

Alex

The weather? That storm’s not coming till Thursday.

Kaley

shaking her head slowly No. The killer. They said he’s been spotted near the outskirts. Like, barely ten minutes from here.

The room went still. The pizza suddenly felt less appetizing. Marcus sat up, the pillow forgotten.

Marcus

voice lower That’s just scare tactics. They always say stuff like that to sell ads.

Alex

glancing toward the front door, then back at the others Still. Lock the door behind you next time.

A knock at the door. Three sharp, deliberate knocks that cut through the silence like a blade.