Upstairs, Kyle and Maria were making out in a broom closet, he was approaching second base, when they heard what sounded like gunfire. They separated quickly, the animal magnetism that once held the teens together momentarily put on hold.

“What was that!?” Maria’s brown eyes were wide open.

“It couldn’t be what it sounded like,” Kyle said, trying to project strength. “Stay here. I’ll get a better look.”

“You’re not leaving me here!” The terror in her voice escalating with each word. “What if someone finds me!?”

Kyle put his finger over his mouth. “Just stay put.” He kissed her forehead tenderly. “I’ll be right back.”

Maria reluctantly obeyed, running her fingers through her red hair.

Kyle walked down the stairs and listened. He heard shouting, but couldn’t quite make out anything. Did he dare go any closer?

The sanctuary door shot open. Kyle saw a masked man with a gun, ushering people into the hall. The masked man turned toward him. Kyle jumped out of sight, just in the nick of time.