Sirens—so many sirens. Cacophony erupts as people run for cover, their cries, screams and tears all muffled by the voluminous backdrop of scattered explosions.

Rick’s head was pounding. He hadn’t slept well last night, and tonight wasn’t looking be any better. With a weary sigh, he edged toward the front of the house, approaching the picture window. It sat there, curtains drawn, taunting him like Monty Hall—“What’s behind door number two?”

He didn’t hesitate. Drawing the heavy coverings aside, he peered out in to the darkness.