Warning Signs

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By Leah Barks

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Scattered drops of rain splash on my skin,

sending shivers throughout my body.

The thunder crashes as the sky gets darker,

A flash of lightning lights up the sky for a split second,

as if to send a warning signal before the clouds release sheets of heavy rain.

My feet pick up the pace,

Only a few more steps until I reach the shelter of my porch.

The time between each drop pelting me shortens,

I can see the faint yellow glow of the porch light,

Almost there.

Lightning strikes again, brightening the sidewalk that leads to home,

I take two more steps, reach the safety of my house,

and exhale a breath of relief.

“What’s wrong?” mom asks

“Th- The- There was a black van…”

She engulfs me in a warm, comforting hug.

I glance out the window with a sense of urgency.

Gone.

“He was following me, I could feel his headlights searching for me.”

“You’re home now.”

Safe.