The 7:13 Bench

The Last Bench Everyone in the village knew one rule about the old school building:

Never sit on the last bench after sunset. Ravi laughed at it.

He was staying late to finish his exam preparation. The sun dipped below the trees,

and the classroom grew quiet—too quiet. Dust floated in the orange light. Every bench was

empty except the last one, pushed slightly away from the others. Ravi sat there.

At exactly 7:13 PM, the bell rang. But the school had no electricity.

No wire. No bell. Ravi froze. Behind him, a cold breath touched

his neck. A voice whispered, “Move forward… you’re in my seat.” Ravi turned slowly.