The Haunted LaughterIn a small town, there was an old, dilapidated theater known as The Whimsical Ghost. Legend had it that the ghost of a failed comedian haunted the place, seeking an audience for his jokes. Locals dared each other to enter, but no one ever stayed long enough to find out if the stories were true.One rainy night, a group of friends—Max, Lucy, and Sam—decided to explore the theater. Armed with flashlights and a sense of adventure, they crept through the creaking doors. The air was thick with dust and a faint scent of stale popcorn.As they made their way to the stage, Max joked, “If this ghost really is a comedian, I hope he’s funnier than my dad.” The group chuckled, but the laughter echoed oddly, as if something in the shadows was amused.Suddenly, the lights flickered, and an old microphone stood in the center of the stage. A raspy voice boomed, “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the show!” The friends froze, eyes wide. “I’ve been dying to entertain!”Before they could react, a spectral figure appeared—a translucent man with a bow tie and an eternal grin. “I’m Chuckles, the ghost of comedy past! Who’s ready for some laughs?”Max, trying to hide his fear, blurted, “We didn’t sign up for this!”“Oh, but you did!” Chuckles replied, floating closer. “I need an audience to perfect my jokes! Let’s see what you’ve got!”Lucy, nervously laughing, suggested, “How about we tell you a joke?” Chuckles’ eyes twinkled with excitement. “Make