Judgment Call: December 28th – Scene 11

Gautier, Mississippi – 20:05 Central Standard Time

Opening the front door, Ronnie was struck by the silence. He paused in the doorway and studied the dimly lit apartment. Nothing looked out of place. There was no breeze from an open door or window, and everything smelled as it should.

Johnny, who was standing behind Ronnie, eased closer. “What is it?”

Ronnie continued studying the space before him. “Probably nothing. Go check the kitchen and utility room.”

Ronnie stepped inside the apartment, pulled his .40 pistol from under his right arm, and thumbed off the safety. He watched Johnny enter the kitchen, check the utility room, and give the “OK” signal. He nodded to Johnny before turning and creeping toward the bedrooms.

Turning the doorknob, he eased the bedroom door open, yet the door hinges refused to move quietly. Grimacing he pushed the door open and raised his pistol. Rebecca sat…