The Carver’s Dread

Bobby's blade scraped the surface of the pumpkin, the hollow sound resonating in his ears. He heard faint murmurs with every incision—as if something was alive beneath the surface. His parents dismissed his anxiety, attributing it to his vibrant imagination. Yet, the whispers intensified, becoming more persistent, until he could almost hear breathing.

As he nervously carved out the final eye, the pumpkin suddenly jerked. The eye popped out, and from the jagged hole, a blood-stained rat sprang at him, squealing. Its fur tangled and matted, it darted away, leaving Bobby sitting in shock, his knife trembling in his grip.