Luke peddled frightened and fast, sticking to the alleys and side streets, praying he hadn’t been seen or picked up by a security camera. Cold wind blew drops of rain into his muddy face as he repeatedly looked over his shoulder, afraid of being followed. Agony flooded every cell in his body. Luke bit down hard on his tongue, causing his jaw to numb, the only thing he could do to keep from screaming. I should have never gone. I should have never gone.
The family home drew closer as Luke turned down his street. The sky had just begun to transform darkness into the bluish glimmer of morning light, signaling the dawn of a new day. Nancy’s car was still parked in the driveway. She hadn’t left for work. A soft glow from the window indicated that the kitchen light was on. The only illumination
