Strangled...

'I have to start early to office tomorrow' Rajiv announced

'How early?' Rashmi asked

'I'll start at 5.00 in the morning.'

Rashmi was sad.

'It's OK, you sleep. I'll have corn flakes and leave. Don't bother about me' Rajiv consoled her lovingly

But it was not that Rashmi was upset about.

It was almost a year since Rashmi and Rajiv moved into their new apartment. Rashmi tastefully decked up her home, complete with pots and antiques and lovely artifacts from wherever Rajiv and she had gone on a vacation till date. She loved the warmth of her home. But she was scared to be alone in her home. Whenever Rajiv was away at work, Rashmi would either go away to a mall or dance class, but past 6 in the evening she would never stay alone there. She had a strange feeling that after 6 in the evening and before 6 in the morning something visited her house if Rajiv was away. She couldn't explain what. So when Rajiv said he was leaving at 5, she was terrified. 

The next morning. 

'Sweetie, I'm leaving' Rajiv announced

Too tired to even say bye, Rashmi just smiled and went back to sleep. She heard the door closing behind Rajiv and within minutes she was deep asleep. 

After a few minutes

Rashmi suddenly opened her eyes. She felt someone had walked past her. She couldn't look up because something was holding her from the neck. Then she couldn't keep her eyes open... something strangled her tight... she tried to scream but whatever it was that was strangling her was also closing her mouth... she couldn't open her mouth, her eyes and she couldn't breathe...she struggled... she moved her legs as if to escape the grasp.. but the hold became tighter... Rashmi was battling for life and then suddenly the grip quickly looseed, she opened her eyes to see what was happening.. there was nobody in sight... She got up quickly and ran to the hall... everything was peaceful and quiet... the birds were chirping and the morning walkers were enjoying the beautiful weather outside...

Rashmi was petrified. 

That evening after Rajiv came back home, Rashmi told him what happened. Rajiv hugged her and said it was nothing and that he would not have to start to work so early hereon. Rashmi was relieved...