The Knock Came Before I Could Dial 911

under his arm, and for one second I saw the corner of a photograph sticking out.

Clara’s face.

My kitchen lights hummed. The operator was still in my ear, asking if I was safe inside. I said yes, but I was looking at the screws on my chain lock and thinking about how cheap they looked.

“Police are on the way,” the operator said.

Maybe she said more. I continue reading …