Creak—another irritating noise shattered Simon’s attempt at peace during his so-called “meditation”. His eyes snapped open, fixating on the ceiling, which seemed to practically burn a hole through the attic above.

He grimaced as a soft thump echoed nearby. Simon yearned for a fresh start, leaving behind his military life to escape the chaos and find solace in solitude—away from everyone and everything. After years of service, he finally bought a house, hoping for peace. Rumor had it that the home had a dark past—a murder someone never quite solved—probably why it was a steal. Who was he to pass up such a deal?

But tranquility was fleeting. Soon, his belongings started vanishing, one by one. The noises—soft, almost inaudible—didn't bother him much; he was used to chaos. Still, Simon noticed everything. The true intruder wasn’t the attic’s mysterious occupant, especially since he was often away. No, what pushed him over the edge was the creeping disappearance of his things and the unsettling feeling of being watched.

Another faint creak sounded above him, and his expression hardened. Slowly, he sat up in bed, eyes narrowing. Maybe it was time to confront his unseen visitor. Whatever it was, it was about to regret messing with him. Simon never said he was a nice man and he definitely didn’t say he was good one.