The rumors regarding Claire’s new residence had always been brushed off. Living in an ancient building often brought with it urban stories of lights flickering, unusual noises being reported, and whispering heard in the walls. She dismissed them, at least until they began to affect her.
It was mild at first. Always at three in the morning, a barely heard murmur as she lay in bed. She talked herself into believing it was only her busy imagination or the creaking pipes. But soon the sounds became more distinct. Different words, but the same message—”Leave.”
Claire heard it again one evening while brushing her teeth. This time it seemed to be coming from just behind her, louder. Her pulse thumping, she swung around to find the restroom empty. The atmosphere was dense.
She was about to bolt, grabbing her phone in a panic, when the door slammed shut on its own. Claire let out a cry and attempted to pry it open, but it remained in place. Now the whispers were nearly unbearable in their volume.
The wall cracked open with a piercing sound. A pale, haggard, hollow-eyed visage sprang out of the inside darkness. It smiled, a twisted, sluggish smile.
“I informed you… Leave now.
The room went black and silence again as the walls closed in on Claire, swallowing her cry.
