The Haunted House

I drove around the countryside, one wet and stormy day; as lightning flashed, I realised I'd truly lost my way - I saw a house and went to ask directions from the folk; I'll tell you what then happened, but you may think it's a joke... The door was open, just a crack; I knocked, then went inside; the stench was terrible, just like an animal had died. Huge flies were buzzing all around an ancient photograph; as footsteps echoed through the house, I thought I heard a laugh. The front door slammed - the laugh again - I shivered then with fright; the door was stuck, I couldn't leave, and guessed I'd have to fight. 'I - I mean no harm,' I stammered, then, 'I'm sorry to intrude -' I wondered would my story hold verisimilitude. The voice that boomed was deafening, and curses filled the air; my heart was thumping, hairs on end. I felt an evil stare. The stench was growing...footsteps neared... a shadow on the wall! I trembled like a frightened child, and staggered from the hall. I ran upstairs; from room to room, I wandered, panting hard; and cried, despairing at the sight: the window frames were barred. I spun around and saw a face - such malice in its glare; I knew I'd have to leave, somehow - or else I'd die right there. I sprang towards him, ready fists; he towered at the door; I paused, then like a bull I charged... and he was there no more! I slipped and tumbled down the stairs, the door was open wide; I hurled his photograph and, chased by flies, I rushed outside. Sponsor- Dear Heart Contest- The Haunted House written 18th August 2018