Whispers of Solitude

Have you ever *really* been alone? Last night, the silence in my apartment pressed

in. Just me and the hum of the fridge. Then, a low murmur.

Like someone talking softly in the next room. I paused my show. It was my voice.

Saying *my own name*. Over and over. Faintly, from the hall. My blood ran cold.

I stood, not daring to move. The whispering grew louder, closer.

"You're not alone," it echoed, *from behind me*. But it was *still* my voice.

I turned slowly. And saw nothing. Only my reflection in the dark screen of the TV,

smiling back. A different smile.