Nobody

I started, my heart pounding like a taiko drum team until a sharp pain in the sole of my foot made me realize that it had just been me. I lifted up my foot to examine it, revealing two small fragments of the branch beneath. After my heartbeat returned to normal, I realized I couldn't stay here any longer, not if I didn't want my heart to explode.

I'd have to risk it.

I took a moment to plan out my route in my head. I was pretty sure I could swing it and make it all the way back to my house without getting caught. I crossed myself, kissed my necklace for luck, took a deep breath, and stepped out from the trees.

I didn't bother trying to cover my body. I wanted to focus on staying hidden and being aware of my surroundings, and I'd rather someone catch a glimpse from a distance than bump into someone unexpectedly. I slinked through the trees surrounding the lake, keeping my ears perked for any sudden noises, a difficult task with my heart pounding so loudly.

I crept from tree to tree, scouting ahead from each hiding place, staying low to the ground as I scuttled to safety. At every sound I froze, trying to locate its source, feeling like a hunted animal, prey to any predator that might come across me in my defenseless state. What would I do if someone caught me? No, no...better not to even think about it... No sense in worrying myself over something that wouldn't happen, right?

From the darkness came a giggle. Crap...