My eyes flicked up to the dark window of my bedroom as I heard the inevitable rev of a motorcycle speeding up my street.

  My bruised hands ached as I frantically typed an email to my boss, hoping I didn't have to explain more on Monday - if I even made it to Monday.

  Hey, Ash!

  Not feeling well, so I won't be in tomorrow.

  Don't wanna give this to anyone else.

  Talk soon.

  - Talia

  If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

  My breath came out of my mouth in a whoosh, and I realized that I'd been holding it as I typed. I closed my laptop, slid it into a backpack, and slung it over my shoulder. I blinked hard against the tears that would eventually come.

  I shook them off. Not right now.

  I took a step toward my exit as a nervous knot worked its way from my stomach to my throat. I placed a hand over my heart and took a deep breath.

  My attempt to steady myself was cut short by the sound of my front door's deadbolt sliding free.

  I listened intently, my nerves a high alert, as the front door closed with a quiet click, and then, nothing.

  Things were too still beyond my bedroom door.

  The regular stirring of my cats had been replaced by an eerie silence.

  Then, from the darkness, a deep voice called to me - a sound woven from both heaven and hell,

  “Are you ready?”