Through the Gates

Your things packed, you call Cassie. She says she'll be there in a few minutes to pick you up, since your car's in the shop. (There is a reason you walked to work!) You wave to your mom and Ian as they pull out of the driveway. You sit on the porch steps to wait for Cassie. You listen, but it is silent. And then, the dogs start barking. You stand and look around. A deafening crack splits the noise, and you are thrown backwards onto the steps. Your vision goes black.
Then, you