Uneven Whirring

Do you ever sleep with a fan on? That steady whirring sound always felt like a comforting

shield against the dark. Last night, it changed. The fan's rhythm

became… uneven. A faint clicking, then a drag. I didn't open my eyes.

Just listened, heart pounding. It sounded like something *caught* inside.

Then, the whirring slowed. Slower and slower. The room grew silent. And from the suddenly

still blades, I heard a wet, guttural inhale. Right beside my ear.

I haven't turned the fan on since. But I swear, sometimes, I still feel a cold

breath.