EXCERPT from GARR

Garr stared at the massive tree in the center of the grove. It was the first year they'd done one so large outside. He wasn't even sure how it was secured to the ground, but it was decorated with a million lights and big red bows and even had ornaments on it.

The season was upon them.

Of course, for him, he was missing something. Not something. Someone. They'd talked a few times, even written a few benign e-mail messages, but he was missing her big. She was so much younger than he was but so much smarter. He wanted to be beside her for Christmas, not far apart.

When his phone vibrated in his pocket, he jumped, grabbing it. He had no idea who it would be, considering everyone was already here. To his surprise, it was the woman on his mind.

"Macie! Hi," he smiled to himself. He heard whispers but couldn't make out what she was saying. "Macie?"

"G-Garr," she said breathlessly.

"Macie, what's wrong?" he said, standing and heading toward his truck. He just knew that he'd be driving somewhere fast.

"Garr, there's a shooter in the mall. I came for some last-minute shopping. There's a shooter."

"Where, honey? Where are you?" he asked.

"Canal shops," she whispered. "I'm hiding in the pretzel shop. I can hear him."

"Stay where you are. Is there a refrigerator or storage locker you can get to?" he asked, feeling panicked. He waved a hand at a few guys, signaling that there was a problem, and it was urgent. They came running.

"There's a storage room, but there's a dead man blocking it. There's so much blood, Garr. I'm scared."

"I know you are, honey. I know you are. We're on our way."

"Oh, God. Oh, God, Garr, there are more. I hear more guns."

"Macie, hide. Find a place to hide and stay there. Activate your trackers, and don't fucking move, honey. I'm on my way."

"Garr? Garr, I love you. I love you, Garr."

"Macie, I love you…" The line went dead, and the others stared at him as they sped from the property.

"Hold on, brother. We're going to get your girl."