Action

Abby’s eyes dart from Justina to the bullet and back again.

Justina leans in, putting her face inches from Abby – and the vibrating bullet.

Wally makes no eye contact, as he silently walks forward – stopping when he is equidistant between the scruffy owner and Abby. His palms point outward, perpendicular to the floor – each arm reaching out in the direction of one of the immobilized persons. Justina slides into Abby’s field of vision, her head just a

Abby never finishes her thought. The man shoots. Abby instinctively squeezes her eyes tight, and recites the Lord’s prayer in her head. When she reaches the end of the first verse, it dawns on her that she should not have made it to the second word. She opens her eyes, and witnesses a most unbelievable

Abby stands up straight, raises both arms in the air (keeping one hand in a fist to secure her necklace), then takes a very slow, deliberate half-step backwards. The man’s pistol stays pointed at her forehead, his finger itchy on the trigger.

He backs away just seconds before Abby’s light explodes outward. The counter glass shatters, spraying sharp shards, jewelry, and trinkets everywhere. The owner dives down, but not quick enough to avoid a sliver of glass slicing his soft arm. Abby stumbles a step back; her light dimming as she calms herself down. She looks at

Abby slams her hands down onto the counter, rattling its contents. The owner jumps back in surprise and anger. He is about to get tough, then notices the bright yellow light emitting out beneath her palms.

Abby’s face now morphs into pure fury.

Abby’s face instantly flips to pained grief. She holds back hot tears, not wanting to further delight the slimy owner. He uses her pause for another opportunity to check her out.

Abby’s face lights up, smiling a true smile at him; her faith in humanity now restored.