The Woman in the TV

When I was fourteen, I often used to babysit for our neighbours. Once the kids were asleep, I’d sit alone in the living room watching TV. It was one of those old sets with a curved glass screen, so you could see the room reflected back at you.

From the sofa, I could always see the armchair to my left in the reflection. Sometimes, usually after an hour or so, the reflection would show an old woman sitting in it. It was freaky, but she didn’t really bother me when she was facing the TV.

But every now and then, I’d glance at the screen and her head would be turned. And she would be looking straight at me.

When that happened, I’d leave the telly on and wait in the kitchen until the parents got home.

Just thinking about it still gives me the shivers.

Rachel Jones, Wales.