As I left my place, I canvassed the block to see who and what was stirring about, but all was quiet. I had managed to make a full block when suddenly I felt a dark presence walking behind me. I walked a little faster, but the steps behind me increased; in a matter of seconds, the steps be- came coordinated with my own.

There was nothing behind but darkness around me, but I knew they were there, and that I was not afraid. After a few deep breaths and a silent pep talk, I finally got enough gumption to turn around, with as much attitude as I could muster. The breaths were trapped in my chest as I turned to see who was behind me, and to my surprise, my eyes could discern the silhouettes of not only one man, but also three men. Surely, they were simply three friends out for a walk, or perhaps making their way to the store as well. I let out the breath I was holding, and told myself there was no need to panic. The store was just a block away, and if I could just make it there, I would be safe.