scream

It was your birthday, and you were returning home, looking forward to an evening with friends. Only one dim light was on in the entryway, on the ground floor. Stepping carefully in the semi-darkness, you were almost to your door when suddenly a rustling sound came from the landing above.

You froze. Your heart skipped a beat. And then you saw them. Two tall figures in long black robes. Their faces were masks like those from the movie "Scream." For a second, you looked at each other. Everything flashed through your mind: from maniacs to the end of the world.

Forgetting your fatigue and the gifts, you squealed and rushed down the stairs, taking them two at a time. Your heart was pounding in your throat. You flew out into the street, gasping for air, and suddenly heard a painfully familiar laugh behind you, turning hysterical.

You turned around. The "maniacs" were standing on the porch, shaking with laughter. One of them staggered and pulled off his mask. It was your best friend, Pashka. Behind him, your sister, Katya.

"Happy birthday!" he croaked, wiping away tears. "You should have seen your face!"

The adrenaline subsided, giving way to wild relief and anger. You wanted to kill them, but instead, looking at their stupid masks and your own trembling hands, you started laughing too.