House Party

(Signs of the Times is a work of fiction based on true events. Views expressed are the characters’ own. Viewer discretion is advised.)

Open on a white house in a manicured suburb. Red solo cups litter the lawn. Lights are on in the house. Music is bumping.

Two police officers arrive on the scene. Their flashers paint the house red and blue.

Cut to their feet walking up a gravel path. The music gets louder as they get closer.

The officers knock on the door. A hand in the window peels back a curtain, revealing a face.

Muffled shouts. The officers look at each other.

OFFICER 1: Did you lock the car?

OFFICER 2: Pretty sure.

The music stops. Footsteps can be heard. Cabinets slam shut. Someone from inside issues a loud “Shhhh.”

OFFICER 1: Wanna check?

OFFICER 2: Nah.

The door swings open. There’s a CHILD, no more than 10 years old standing in the doorway. He wears a Minecraft t-shirt.

CHILD: Evening, officers.

OFFICER 1: Are your parents home?

Some chuckling and muffled laughing comes from inside the house.

OFFICER 2: Okay, I see what’s going on.

CHILD: I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m just a baby.

The child gives a devilish smile. He sticks a finger in his cheek.

OFFICER 1: Can we speak to the parents here? A Mr. and Mrs. James?

CHILD: They’re on vacation now. Far away. A far away place.

The officers turn to each other.

The siren in the car flips on. Two adults sit in the front seat and shine the spotlight on the officers at the front door. They floor it, peeling out in the street.

The officers race after their car on foot.

The child laughs.