I bolt upright in bed, something having awoken my unconscious mind before I can consciously register what I am hearing.

A thump from the living room down the hall, followed by the distinct sound of footsteps.

I live alone.

I grab the large knife I keep in my side table drawer, and holding it up, I slowly open my door and make my way down the hall. I don't know why I didn't lock my door and call the cops, I guess I thought I could be a big badass hero.

And I really thought I was; the intruder is bent over trying to unplug the cord of the laptop he is intending to steal, and though I hesitate for a split second, with one move I plunge the knife deep into his back.

He gasps and slowly topples forward, turning his head to look at me, eyes wide, blood draining from his face. I return his gaze with a triumphant stare, and as I go to reach for my phone to call 911, he opens his mouth and chokes out one sentence that turns my blood ice cold.

"I didn't come alone..."

From behind me I hear the cock of a pistol.