The Monster

She stood in the doorway and observed the room.  She had been here many times and knew it lurked here. She had felt its presence before.

She crossed the room, walking slowly. Watching, looking into the corners and shadows.  Reaching the bed, she hesitated a moment. The end tables were the same. The lamp on the right table was lit.  It all appeared to be as usual but she felt the monster's presence.

The coverlet on the bed had been removed, the blanket and sheet folded down.  All seemed quiet.

With a sigh, she sprawled on the bed, stomach down, head up.  Perhaps this would bring the monster forward, into the open where she could reach it. Maybe this time she could end the monster.

Her eyes narrowed.  There was a movement at the end of the bed. She knew the headboard was solid. What had caused that small quiver?  She shifted slightly. Ready to lunge and seize it if it appeared into the open.  She didn't know where it came from, nor how it could slip silently around the room. Through the wall?  She didn't know. There was so much she didn't know about the monster. Still it was her duty to make the attempt.

She heard footsteps coming down the hallway. A few more steps and he appeared.  He gave her a momentary look and walked towards the bed.  His steps were solid and he strode to the bed and spoke.

"Here you are.  Watching again?"

She didn't respond other than a quick glance. Her attention was focused, eyes and ears alert.

The moment ended and with it her attention. She could sense the monster slipping away. She would return later to her vigil, tonight or tomorrow. She was patient.

He bent and ran a hand down her back, stroking her lightly. Her fur was silky under his hand.

"No pillow monster tonight, Snowflake."

Snowflake