I stepped back, grinning. I had at least done something to confuse the issues. I would leave that puzzle behind me. It wouldn't fool anyone though, because they would know who I was. Sarah Fish and Sam Golfin.
My heart was starting to pound painfully. Panic flooded into me. I had to reach that front door. I had to! It was already open, and people were going through it, leaving the party. The distinguished appearing man was standing there shaking hands with them as they left.
Where was I supposed to drop dead? I wished I had asked Golfin that. I took another step, and another. And, unbelieving, I was at the door.
"Glad you could be here," the distinguished appearing man said, gripping my hand and letting it go.
He had turned to the next person, and I was standing there, my heart pounding, expecting to drop. Somebody pushed against me gently and said, "Pardon me." I put my hand on the door frame and put one foot over the threshold. I was still standing.
I let go the door frame and put the other foot over the threshold. I was standing on the porch. I sucked in a breath. It was too good to be true. There was a catch to it somewhere. But—
I took another step. Eager haste possessed me. I took quick steps off the porch. I was on the sidewalk. I was still alive!
And somewhere I had lost the numbness in my side.
Around me people were getting in their cars, the doors slamming shut softly. I glanced over my shoulder. More people were coming out of the house.
I waited for no more. Almost running, I went the two blocks to the stop sign and turned toward the drugstore.