I couldn’t take my eyes off the gun in her hand. I remembered all too well the last time one had been in her possession, and pointing in my direction. My hand drifted to where the side of my head.
She spoke in a threateningly even voice, “Back up Jack.â€?
I couldn’t think. “But… but m-my n-name’s not J-Jack…â€? I heard my voice stutter.
I froze when I heard the piercing sound of Lily cocking the weapon.
“My friend and I,â€? she said menacingly, “say your name is Jack, & we’d like you to back up.â€?
I couldn’t make myself move, petrified as I was. Was she nuts? Did she realize she’d seal her fate as a dead woman if she fired?
“You recall,â€? she continued, “I half-missed last time I shot. Well, that was practice, & I assure you my next shot will be on right on target.â€?
I didn’t need telling twice. I let them pass.
Once Lily & the ragamuffin scurried down the stairs, I’d regained my nerves, & I realized what I’d just done. Dad would kill me!
Then I realized what I had to do.
Quickly, furtively, I followed.