Chapter 2 - The Mysterious Smoke Clearing After the Loud Explosion
The sharp smell of sulfur and burnt gunpowder immediately filled the dimly lit upstairs hallway of the suburban home.
Luke coughed, shielding four-year-old Toby completely with his broad chest as thick white smoke billowed from the staircase landing.
The violent shockwave of the blast had shattered the decorative glass panes of the hallway antique cabinet.
Shards of glass glittered across the hardwood floor like fallen stars under the flickering emergency lights.
Brenda remained seated on the nursery carpet, her crimson athletic jacket stained with dust from the drywall.
Instead of showing fear or panic, her lips curled into a cold, triumphant smirk as she stared toward the smoke.
“You think you won, Luke, but you have no idea who you're dealing with,” Brenda whispered mockingly.
Luke ignored her taunts, his heart hammering violently against his ribs as he assessed Toby for any injuries.
“Are you hurt anywhere, buddy? Talk to Daddy,” Luke pleaded, his voice shaking with adrenaline and dread.
May you like
Toby shook his head, burying his tear-streaked face deeper into his father’s damp shirt without uttering a word.
---
Related Stories
