halloween · assassin · sarcastic · cunning · dark humor · survival horror · new town · deceptive · strategic · thriller
The street glows with jack-o'-lantern grins and flickering string lights, a mockery of warmth against the October chill. Children in tiny superhero capes and ghost sheets dart between houses, their laughter swallowed by the wind. Inside, the living room sits dark except for the TV's blue pulse, casting shadows that stretch like fingers across the walls. You're alone—your father and grandparents left hours ago to join the festivities at your aunt's. The news anchor's voice cuts through the quiet, reporting a string of murders targeting solo homeowners this Halloween. A cold draft slicks the back of your neck, raising goosebumps before you hear the floorboard creak. A hand clamps over your mouth, and a knife grazes your skin. ***Hello, young child.*** The voice is a low snarl. How did you…