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Setting: The Prom "Hey, D.K., how'd you get roped into chaperoning? You're the last one I expected to see here." D.K. turned to greet the high school coach. "Hey, Carl. Suzanne lassoed me after I spoke to her health class last week." His gaze travelled over the man's tight suit. "You look about as uncomfortable as I feel. When are you gonna lose those ten pounds?" "Quit nagging me. You sound like my wife. Besides, it's not fat; it's muscle. Coaches aren't allowed fat." D.K. chuckled. He took a sip of his punch and gazed around the gym, filled with high school seniors, attending their prom. The room was dim, decorated in red and white hearts and flowers, which reminded him more of valentine's day than a graduation dance. His gaze settled on a blonde-haired young woman, slow dancing with her date -- she'd caught his eye several times tonight. Something about her drew him. Maybe the gold highlights in her hair. Her soft, pink lips. The swell of her breasts. "That's Sarah Corday." D.K. choked on his punch. He coughed and sputtered. Had he been that obvious? He glanced around nervously, wondering who else might have noticed. "What?" he croaked out. "That's her name," Carl answered with a smile. "Whose name?" Maybe he could bluff his way out of the embarrassing situation. "The girl you've been undressing with your eyes all night." "I don't know what you're talking about," he lied, feeling his face flush. "Besides ... jail bait is not my style." And it wasn't ... usually. Sarah -- a lovely name. He liked it. "Then you're in luck. She just turned 18 last month from what I understand. The boyfriend's a real boozer. Better keep an eye on him. I'll bet my last dollar he's got a bottle on him." Panic struck D.K. He didn't know why it hit so hard, but it did. Cold fear ... for Sarah. He felt it creeping up his spine. He knew he shouldn't stare, but he couldn't help it. She was so beautiful. Her blonde hair was swept up off her neck. The pale orchid dress she wore made her look like a delicate flower, ready to be picked. When her date kissed her neck, he stiffened, and a surge of jealousy rushed through him. This was crazy. He didn't even know her. Even so ... he did know that touching her would be heaven. Sarah's date pulled her toward the door. She struggled against him, but then relaxed and let him lead her out. D.K. had to follow. His gut instinct demanded it. "I've got to go, Carl. Give my apologies to Suzanne." He didn't even wait for Carl's answer, too intent was he on following Sarah. Protecting Sarah. The night breeze hit him in the face as he stepped out into the parking lot. "Where'd they go?" Squealing tires drew his attention. A Pinto sped past with Sarah in the passenger seat. D.K. rushed to his car and sped after them, his fear for Sarah's safety increasing with each passing minute. Would he be doing this for any other girl who had been at the prom? He wondered. "Slow down!" he shouted, looking at the speedometer. They were travelling way too fast. D.K. slowed to take a curve, hoping he wouldn't lose them. Another narrow turn approached ahead. He lost sight of the Pinto as it careened around the curve. A sickening crash ripped through the air. Then silence. |