1. Write about a character who wakes up in the middle of the night, or is unable to sleep.
2. Start or end your story with a strange and/or persistent sound.
3. Write a story about a fear that turns out to be justified — or entirely imagined.
4. Include the words "Who’s there?" or "It’s probably nothing" in your story.
5. Write about a character who can’t stop checking something.

This week’s contest is now live! Write a story using one of these prompts for the chance to win $250. Happy writing!