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You explain to Parker that the governor has imposed a strict curfew which is being enforced by the National Guard. "We're supposed to stay inside as much as possible and avoid contact with anyone who's infected. The news is making it out to be grim."

"Hmm, well how do they expect us to get food? By delivery? Look, I'm going to head out and see what stores are open. I also need to fill a prescription, since I'm down to my last dose of insulin. God help me if I run out. Is there anything I can get you while I'm out?"Okay, I'll see what I can get. A friend said the Edison Strip Mall is open, and he saw delivery trucks with food going to the grocery store. I'll be fast out there, and once I get back, I'll stop by your house."

More gunshots disturb the silence outside.

"God help us all," Parker says, and he lets out a long sigh.

Parker's voice muffles at the end, and you hear a deep cough away from the other end of the phone. "Sorry about that. Don't mean to cough in your ear. I was trying to quit smoking, but the stress of the last few days erased any chance of kicking the habit. Anyway, I'll talk to you later, and if you need anything, call my cell. Take care and God bless."