While slightly revised, this 100 word story originally appeared as a comment here.
His hackles were raised by the bloodcurdling scream from next door that had broken the perfect serenity of a bright summer day. Not usually one to meddle in the affairs of others, he resolved to investigate. Someone was in life threatening danger.
Hurriedly, he punched in the code to his safe and pulled out a 9mm pistol. He racked the slide, chambering a hollow point round, and stealthily approached his enigmatic neighbor's front door.
Oddly, the door was unlocked, and he stepped into the shadowy dwelling. Moments later, the tense silence was fractured by the staccato rhythm of semi-automatic gunfire.
Afterword: To enhance the impact of this story, listen to the song below after you read.
If you enjoyed reading my Thoughts, consider showing your appreciation by helping to make my dream of quitting my day job a reality.
Oh dear.
OK, now write the UK version where it's a cricket bat and a replica sword. Sorry for the pun but the words in this were fully loaded, building the tension. Great work.