“Ma, I’ll help you into the living room and then I’ll go with them and come back and get you.”
“Okay, Mijo. I’m tired.”
“I know, Ma.”
“I love you, Mijo.”
“I love you too, Ma.”
***
Three.
Juan couldn’t help looking at each house as they walked past looking for any signs of power. They walked spread out but were able to talk. No masks this time, it seemed silly. There was an ominous silence as they walked. Like the whole neighborhood was holding their breath for what was about to happen next.
“What do you think happened?” Alfie asked.
“EMP, detonated in the atmosphere.” Trevon said.
“But by who?” Juan asked.
“Your guess is as good as mine - The Chinese, the Russians, The Middle East… everyone seems to have a beef with us.”
“So, what’s next then?” Alfie asked.
Trevon shook his head. “If I had to guess, I would think they would try invading. But I don’t really know much about it. I stock with Anselmo overnights at the Food Shop up the road. He tells me about all this and told if something happens, he’ll wait for me to get to his place so we can get out of dodge together.” Trevon shook his head, “Anselmo is the man with all the answers.”
Juan nodded feeling his eyes start to stare forward. He had been in a meeting and now he was in the back of a pickup truck. He had been in the middle of fighting for a raise. Another raise. He had brought in a new supplier and saved the company a lot of money. He had hoped he would see some of that money with a promotion or just the traditional way, a raise.