Halloween came with a chilly wind and a moon. Zosia had a bat costume and Timothy was a pirate. The bags were buzzing with candy and jelly beans. They laughed out loud when a neighbour gave out lollipops. The street smelled of pumpkin and warm cocoa. Mum waved from the window and held a mug of tea. Cats jumped fences and leaves danced. At the end of the street stood a strange, quiet house. A lone pumpkin lantern flashed on the porch. Its smile was crooked like a sandcastle. A card with a crooked heart hung on the door. On the card was written: Knock if you dare. - Are we collecting sweets here? - whispered Tymek quietly. Zosia picked up the torch and nodded. The stairs creaked with each small step. Suddenly the pumpkin blinked and gave a short whisper. A green, warm glow flashed from inside the house. There was a cave-like breeze, though the night was mild. The door moved of its own accord and pushed open the air. Zosia and Tymek looked at each other, held their breath. And then something rattled right behind them.