i dont need to lock it i have a cat . a story made up in the distant past . come to think of it , i wasnt completely off base . i wrapped my arms around myself and backed up against the wall , trying to make myself small . we will then leave for the city , most likely not coming back for a long time , if at all . the silence was suddenly very thick . he defended as they all looked at him . gravel spraying and crunching underneath the tires of approaching vehicles . 