There’s an effect called uncanny valley, where things that are almost human, but not quite, make us uneasy. Things like cartoons or teddy bears are cute, when their semblance to humanity is a vague and distant thing, while humanoid robots and not quite realistic CGI can give us the creeps. Perhaps that is why They are so sinister. They look and act just like humans. They laugh and They cry. Cut Them and They bleed, talk to Them and They can hold a conversation. During the day, that is. Something about the sunlight, makes Them feel normal, safe. But as it fades, the chills start to creep in, and They don’t look so normal anymore. The smiles on Their faces seem forced, the tears They shed, seem fake. Their words begin to sound phony, and scripted, Their blood looks a little too red. And if you notice any of these things, don’t ever let Them know. If you do, then tomorrow, one of Them will move into your house. They will go to work in your place, look after your kids, laugh with your friends. And you will be nowhere to be seen. Entry for 2024 Halloween Writer's Contest