The Unknown

Glowing eyes peek at me from underneath the bed and from the darkness of my closet. They think they’re so clever, but I can see them, fur, scales, claws, horns, and all. I laugh, “My old fears! I’ve missed you guys.” Smiling fangs slink from the shadows. Drool drips on my carpet. “You’re all grown up,” one purrs, wiping a tear from his single eye. “Will you stay now?” I smile. Heads shake, sad. “Our job is done. You have grownup fears now, and they’re much too scary for us.” So they shuffle back to the closet, powerless, whispering goodnight.