Vaughn

I count in my head.

One.

Two.

Three.

Then? I take off like a shot, heading toward the only place she could go, which was out the door. I get to the landing, and stop for a second, listening for her. She's quiet, but I can track the sound right as she goes off the last step. The edge of her hair flowing behind her is all I can see. 

Taking the steps two at a time, I head down, and then glance around. I didn't hear the door close, so ...