I moved slowly to the door, peering through the peephole. A shadowy figure stood on the porch, their features obscured by the darkness. I took a deep breath and called out, "Who is it?"
The figure didn't respond, but another knock came, more insistent. Fear surged through me, and I pressed the panic button. Within moments, the house was flooded with the sound of alarms, and I heard the distant wail of sirens approaching.
The figure outside turned and fled into the night. I backed away from the door, my heart pounding. Moments later, the police arrived, and Detective Harris was at the forefront.
"What happened?" he asked, his eyes scanning the room.
"Someone was at the door," I said, my voice shaking. "They knocked but didn't say anything. When I pressed the panic button, they ran."
Detective Harris nodded, his expression grim. "You're doing the right thing by staying here. We'll increase the patrols and keep a closer watch. You're safe here, Elena."