The band is finishing up the set. The air in the room is charged with youthful energy, sparking the lungs, and moving the adrenaline needle. It overtakes me, makes me feel young. I’m pretty sure I’m smiling. A big, goofy grin, I bet. My phone vibrates in my pocket.
I let it ring.
The set ends, the noise of the cheering crowd pounds my ear drums. Sparrow and crew take the final bow, and she turns to leave the stage.
I catch the light falling over her, and realize how beautiful she is on stage. She’s alive. Her eyes sparkle as she walks towards me, smiling my way. I wave out to her.
She’s half way to me, when her smile fades, and a look of utter fear crosses her face. She’s looking past me. I turn to see what could bring that gaze out of her.
My face meets the oncoming end of the shotgun and it’s a K.O.