Come Out Tonight by Richard Laymon

The provided text, identified as excerpts from Richard Laymon's "Come Out Tonight," follows Sherry, a woman whose evening takes a dark turn after her boyfriend, Duane, leaves to buy condoms and seemingly disappears. Concerned for his safety, Sherry embarks on a search, encountering a seemingly helpful young man named Toby, who misleads her about Duane's whereabouts. As Sherry's journey progresses, Toby's true, violent nature is revealed, leading to a brutal assault. The narrative then shifts to Toby's perspective as he plans further attacks, ultimately targeting Sherry's sister, Brenda. The excerpts depict a harrowing struggle for survival as Sherry and Brenda navigate a night of terror, highlighting themes of betrayal, violence, and unexpected resilience.