Nightmares

My breathing was becoming heavy, and every step I took was forced. I was barely pulling my self along when I fell to my knees. I sat there for a second before clearing my mind and crawling on my knees, as that was all I could manage. Time seemed to slow down around me, dragging me backward with it. I needed to get away, but slowly I found myself less and less able to. I wanted to, I just… couldn’t.

Finally, I found the strength to get back on my feet. Once again I started running. I closed my eyes as I rushed forward, feeling the wind in my hair. But as I opened them again, I realized I had gotten no further than where I had been when I fell. I felt devastated, and it only got worse as I turned and saw my absolutely worst fear. I couldn't make out the details, but I knew who it was. I let out an echoing wail as they slowly approached.

With a gasp I sat up in my bed. I buried my face in my hands as I tried to calm down. The dream had been so confusing, but at the same time it was so frightening. I had felt so helpless, only to find out it was my own imagination. My heart rate started to slow down, and I lay back down in my bed. Who would have thought such a warm, comfortable place could bring nightmares as soon as you fall asleep?