IT WAS STILL DARK outside when I woke up to the sound of somebody in my apartment. The noises were faint, someone’s unsuccessful attempt to keep quiet. My mind immediately became aware and defensive, like an animal that knows it’s being hunted. Careful not to make a sound, I quietly crept out of bed and tiptoed my way to my desk, hoping to find something to use as a weapon. Without much luck, I grabbed the only thing that seemed somewhat feasible, a heavy square edged jewelry box the size of my palm. Deciding I could throw it at the intruder or maybe use it to pack a heavier punch if there was no chance of escape, I grabbed the piece and clutched it tightly in my trembling hand. My heart began to stutter, stumbling unevenly with each beat as the thuds became so loud I was sure they would give me away. I moved on to the door, turning the knob soundlessly with gritted teeth hoping that the hinges would refrain from their sporadic creaking. They did, but even so, the panic began to take hold of me as I inched along the hallway wall that led from my bedroom.
