SHORTS FROM THE SHELF features short serialized fiction by author Shannon Muir, administrator of SHANNON MUIR’S THE PULP AND MYSTERY SHELF, that may be later released as part of e-book or print collections. The story line featured over the next fifteen days is “Beyond the Shining Stars”. This is part 7 of 15.

At last, he did decide to drop in at the Tate estate without calling first. If Randy hid there, he didn’t want to tip anyone off and let their son get away. The security there knew him very well, so Sam didn’t fear getting run off.

Sam pulled up to the estate gate and rolled down his window. He did not recognize the young man on duty.

“Sam Hawkins here. I need to see Randolph urgently.”

“I’m sorry, sir. No one is available right now.”

Sam noted the choice of words.

“When will someone be available? It’s urgent.”

“I don’t know, sir. Now I suggest you leave.”

Sam leaned out the window, hoping this would convey the urgency to the young security guard.

“Listen, please call the emergency line. It’s about Randy!”

Sam just barely registered the hit to his head before he drifted into darkness.