Ding.

I rolled over and picked up my phone. Figures, just as I’m going to bed. Should have turned off my ringer.

“Huh.”

“What?” said my wife from her social media scrolling.

“Its from the doorbell app. Listen - ‘ALERT: a conditional alert has been issued for this area. This alert means that all alertees should be prepared for imediate action.’ What the hell does that mean?”

“Sounds like nonsense.”

“Yeah, but important nonsense….”

My voice trailed off as the lights fickered and went out. The wifi died. Even the smoke alarm little green light that never goes out, went out.

“Uh…” my wifes voice came through the dark with a wobble.

“Probably coincidence?” I said with utter uncertainty. “Ill go check the basement.”

Stepping out of bed, I could hear people outside. Shouts. Concerned voices. What was that noise? A generator? A snowblower? Maybe Ron’s 1967 Ford?

At the bottom of the stairs, I opened the front door and looked out. The dog came up behind me. We lived in a pretty dark place but I could tell it was darker. No moon tonight. But the lights from the airport were gone. And I couldnt see the glare from the city about 30 miles away. Shit. This isnt good.

Just as I was about to shout at Ron across the street who seemed to be trying to start his other cars, with only the 1967 Ford running, he swiveled and looked toward the city.

I turned, stomach sinking.