[ WP ] The running faucet

`` Time for bath, mommy!'' 
 
 Laura smiled to herself. This was her favorite part of the day, getting Lani ready for bed. She picked up the adorable little girl and hugged her close. `` You got it sweetie. Go get your clothes from your room.'' 
 
 She walked into the bathroom and began running the bath. The hone in the living room began to ring insistently, and with a quiet sigh, Laura went into the living room and picked up the phone. The call lasted only a few minutes. That's when she noticed it... the ominous quiet that stretched menacingly. 
 
 `` Lani?'' She walked into Lani's room, only to find it deserted, clothes still placed neatly on the bed. She walked into the kitchen, as the little girl was always `` stealing'' snacks, only to find it empty as well. 
 
 Panic began to settle in her chest. She called Lani's name a bit too loudly as she went back into the living room. That's when she heard it. The running faucet in the bathroom that seemed to echo loudly in her ears and drown out all other sounds. 
 
 Her heart began to race, and she rushed into the bathroom, dark thoughts and recriminations clouding her mind. She fearfully pushed the bathroom door open as her breath caught in her throat and her hand began to tremble violently. Dreading what she just *knew* she was going to find, her gaze immediately sought the tub and she rushed over to the side of the tub. 
 
 She could only stare at what she found: nothing but clear water. Relief poured through her momentarily but then she frowned. Where was Lani? 
 
 `` Boo!'' Lani jumped out at her mother from behind the bathroom door where she had been hiding and giggled happily. `` I'care you!'' 
 
 Laura smiled wearily and reached out to wrap Lani in a too tight hug. `` Yes, baby, you scared me.'' She stretched out a hand and turned the water off.
