Aiden, a quiet boy of ten, trudges home from school, his backpack bouncing lightly on his shoulders. He glances up at the familiar porch steps, eager for the warmth and comfort inside.

Aiden pauses, uneasiness prickling at his skin. He steps closer, his sneakers scuffing the wood, and peers inside. Something pale and wispy floats in the hallway, almost transparent.

Aiden's breath catches, and his heart pounds in his chest. He wants to run, but his feet feel glued to the floor. The specter turns, revealing hollow eyes and a gentle, sad smile.

"Please don't hurt me," he whispers, voice barely audible. The house seems to shrink around him, every shadow stretching longer.

The Ghost: a gentle spirit, once a child, now lingering out of loneliness. "I won't harm you. I only wish for someone to listen," it says, drifting back slightly. Aiden slowly opens his eyes, curiosity mingling with his fear.

"Maybe I could listen for a little while," he offers, voice shaking. The ghost smiles, and the house feels warmer, as if the darkness has lifted just a bit.