Invasion

They told him of strange goings on. That the house was dangerous, that he shouldn't go alone, that there were strange looking characters in it. They were afraid.

Life is full of strange looking characters. Look around. Why aren't you afraid?

He told them he would go check. They continued their talk of concern. That the abandoned house was not safe, that strange people were inside.

Nothing is safe. Look around.

He backed the pickup to the house, hopping out with cutlass in hand and noting that the downstairs doors were unlocked and opened - a feat that he himself couldn't do because he had lacked the keys. Therein lies a hint. A door with a key and lock propped up against the stairs leading up was curious, interesting.

The bats are gone. I hated those bats anyway.

Deadbolting the door behind him, he walked through the downstairs and locked some of the windows that had been unlocked. There were no signs of occupation other than the door. Deadbolted inside, they would have to come in through the open panel to the rear of the house.

There are surprises that can be left when you know the point of entry.

Everything else was as it should be. Unaltered. Unchanged.

Nothing is safe. Look around.

Tomorrow is another day.

A trip to the hardware store is in order.

Unscathed, he walked out.

And not a soul said a word. There is no fear.