Behind Enemy Lines

Lila and Marcus struggle to find a way to safety. Daily Flash Winner!

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the abandoned town. Lila and Marcus crouched behind a rusted car, its paint chipped and peeling. They could hear the distant rumble of engines, a steady reminder of the danger closing in.

Lila’s hand trembled as she gripped the map. The town had been their only hope, but it was clear now: they were being hunted. The air smelled like dust and decay, the kind that comes with a place forgotten by time.

She glanced over at Marcus, who was scanning the empty street with a mix of determination and concern. His dark eyes met hers, and for a moment, it felt like the whole world had paused.

"What's the plan?" she whispered, though she already knew the answer.

Marcus didn’t hesitate. He was the one who always had a plan, always thought three steps ahead. It was his way of keeping them both alive. But now, even he seemed unsure as he studied the map.

"We make for the old church," he said, his voice steady, despite the situation. "There’s a basement under it. We can hide until dark, then-"

The sound of tires screeching broke their conversation. A black van appeared at the end of the street, headlights cutting through the dusky air. Lila’s heart skipped a beat.

"Now," Marcus said sharply, grabbing her wrist. "Run."

They dashed toward the church, their footsteps loud against the silence. The van’s engine roared, and then came the shouting. Lila’s breath came in sharp gasps, but she pushed on, the cold stone of the church looming closer with every step.

They weren’t out of danger yet. But for the first time that day, Lila felt a spark of hope.

Word Count: 291
Prompt: Write a story that includes the line: “What’s the plan?”
Written for: "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge"