Escalated

The haunting escalated.

One rainy evening, Aria cooked dinner when she heard the kitchen door slam violently behind her. She ran to open it, but it would not budge. The lights flickered, and a heavy sense of dread filled the room.

A cold presence appeared in the corner. She felt icy fingers brush her shoulder as if someone tried to shove her. She stumbled but caught herself against the counter.

“Aria…”

It was Siya’s voice, closer than ever. Aria’s body froze, her heart pounding so fast she could barely breathe. The ghost floated closer, her eyes burning with pain and anger. Aria realized something terrifying: Siya could harm her if she wanted, but she did not. Every shove, every slam of a door, every cold gust was a warning a demand for recognition and justice.

Over the next weeks, the haunting grew worse. Stairs trembled beneath her steps. Doors slammed violently in her face. Windows rattled as if someone was trying to push her out. One night, she was almost pushed down the stairs but caught herself on the railing just in time. She realized that even in her anger, Siya’s spirit protected her from true harm but only barely.

Aria became afraid of sleeping alone. Every shadow could hide her best friend, angry and hurt. Yet deep inside, she still loved her.