23 Hours (8 page)

“You’re worth it,” I said as I turned my head and pulled the trigger.

I struggled once again to my feet but immediately felt one leg give out. I knew I’d never make it to the front door and even if I did, then what? I could already feel my heart rate increasing to an unnatural speed. There was also an incredible heat rushing through my veins and I could literally feel my muscles swelling. Pulling out Willie’s watch I could see that it was in fact the end of the 23rd hour.

“Hey!” I screamed, as I pulled Excalibur from the ground. I stumbled forward a few more feet and screamed again, and again it only sounded like a rabid growl. But this time I’d gotten the attention of the guys manning the machine gun nests. The spotlights quit sweeping across the field and all focused on me so with Excalibur raised in glaring defiance, I once again called out. With no other sound present, the growl just kind of hung in the air until the roar of the machine guns cut through the night.

Acknowledgment
This book would not have been possible if it wasn’t for my amazing family supporting me. I want to thank each and every one of them; my wife, kids, brother and sister, everyone who has helped me realize this crazy dream of mine.

About the Author

I am a graphic designer who decided to branch out into a new creative direction by trying my hand at writing. 23 Hours is my second book, preceded only by The Dark Genesis of Daniel James, but I have several more in the works including the sequel to Dark Genesis, Failed Exodus, and as the sequel to 23 Hours, After the End.

When I’m not designing or writing I like to spend time with my wife and three kids, our cat, dogs, iguanas and dragons. I also like to spend time with my video games, movies, archery and my vintage (read “old”) motorcycle.