** Brad **

I check my pocket again, touching the small lump of black salt. It's my only defense. I have no idea if it will work but I have to do something. I just hope like hell I'm not too late. I'm instantly nauseated just thinking about it.

I make a right on Oak Lawn, parking two houses down before cutting the engine. I sneak out, barely clicking the door shut as I duck and run, sneaking across the lawn like I'm about to rob the place.

The house is quiet but ...