Lights Out

         The lights went out, plunging my small home into black ink. The dog started barking; the fearful cacophony sent my anxiety level through the roof.

         I dimly remember a wet nose pushing against my arm, feeling for some reaction or maybe he’s just hungry. Such a good dog… and then I couldn’t feel his wet nose. The lights were still out, and my arms must have turned to lead.

         I remember trying to reach out… for what? The dog? The wall? But my arms wouldn’t move.

         The barking stopped. Everything was silent, including me. The lights are still out, and I’m not sure if they ever came back on.