The Night Before Halloween

As we celebrate Halloween, remember that some invitations are best left unanswered.

Hallow's eve, the night portends,
Anna displays the next day's odds and ends
A pumpkin grins beneath the moon;
Cobwebs spin as darkness looms;
Autumn leaves graze cobbled floors
Spirits groan with cheer at doors.

A child’s voice calling trick or treat,
Three knocks fracturing midnight’s peace
A tiny voice beyond the door,
Then footsteps stir the wooden floors,
Curiosity crept fast, as caution crawled
Then through the keyhole, owners saw,

She opens the door; the porch is bare. The candles dance in cold, still air; A paper bag 'neath pale, dim light. Candles dance through windless night. She picks the bag; it meets her gaze- Her home's pale, familiar face.

The bag catches Anna's eye; A photo shows her in slumbered time. On its back, the words, a clause: "In thanks for opening the door." A deathly whisper, bated breath- A childish voice, hardly a sound to spare, You've done your trick; your treat waits there."

For Mikeydred's October challenge