I Am More Terrified Than Surprised

Snakes are climbing in and out, Cobras, bull snakes, timber rattlers… Some are at top of giant oak trees, staring at me with their slits Laughing at my fear, sneering at my consternation. I stop breathing. I did not realize they could climb as high as they do. I am more terrified than surprised. Feeling more threatened than amused. A giant bull snake drops twelve feet, and lands squarely on my neck. I had forgotten they were as cold-blooded as they are. I scream my loudest, longest non-dainty scream, Waking the rest, who are at work, but not sleeping.