The size and strength of the house impresses me, for the thousandth time. Reaching the massive door, I stare into the camera.
“What are you doing here, Julie? I can’t let you in.”
Shuffling from foot to foot, I glance back towards the street. “Please,” I beg, “I’ll never make it home.”
I wait.
An electrical buzz and click from the door.
I step inside.
The siren sounds.
The purge has started.
As my best friend pushes the door shut behind me, I pull the knife from the back of my pants.
This year I will be safe and alone.
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