The Knock Came Before I Could Dial 911

the bedroom window and saw a shadow drop from the fire escape to the landing below. Too fast, clumsy. Someone fell against the metal stairs with a noise like a dropped toolbox.

“Police,” I shouted into the phone. “They’re running.”

The operator told me to stay inside.

For once in my life, I obeyed.

Blue and red light cut across Clara’s lavender walls. continue reading …