The Voice Outside the Tent

No one slept that night. I woke up to whispering. Soft. Close.

(perfect imitation) “Maya…” It knew my name. I didn’t answer. I couldn’t move.

By morning, everyone had a story. Voices calling them. Using people they loved.

Then we saw the footprints. Bare. Too long. Too deep.

They went in circles. Like it had been pacing all night. (cheerful voice, wrong tone)

“I’m over here!” It sounded exactly like Jenna. She was standing right next to us.