Edward, still in hiding, was beginning to feel a strange new sensation. The sensation slowly spread, locating the deepest reaches of his psyche. What is this feeling? It wasn’t another panic attack, because it carried with it an intense calming effect. The nervous energy remained, yet it felt more organized as if it now had a distinct purpose. No, what Edward felt for the first time in his life was courage.

Not enough courage to hop to his feet and take out the terrorists unarmed, mind you. But enough to locate the phone in his booth, perhaps.

Without leaving cover, he blindly and methodically reached for the phone. He pulled it down under his desk and dialed 911.

“911 emergency. How may I help you.”

“First Baptist, hostage situation,” he whispered.

“Could you say that a bit louder, sir? I can’t hear you.”

“First Baptist, hostage situation.”

“Come again?”

“I’m at First Baptist in a hostage situation! You idiot!”

Seconds later, staring down the barrel of a gun, he didn’t feel so courageous anymore.