#Chapter 43 The Slap Heard ‘Round the World

 

        I froze and listened to the night. For a minute, there was nothing. Then the screaming started again.

        “No! No!”

        My heart pounding, I cautiously reached under my bed. I grasped for the bat that I started keeping near me since the incident with Tom. Its hard, grainy surface gave me a sense of security and confidence as I gripped it tightly.

        Bat in hand, I slipped out of bed and snuck out of my room. As I approached the end of the hall, I peeked around the corner.

        Nothing appeared out of order. The door was still locked and closed, the TV was off and stayed mounted on the wall, and all the furniture still stood in place. Even Arthur remained on the couch, fast asleep.

        I was about to search the kitchen when the screaming started again from the living room.

        “No! Pleas