FirstLineFiction beta

from Contest #3

I read about it in the paper, in the subway, on my way to work. I read about it when I woke up, during my lunch break, and before I went to bed. I read about it constantly, obsessively, and neurotically. I just could not get it out of my head. She noticed too.

John…John…hey, you with the face, over there, staring off into space…

I looked up, thinking that I heard someone, to see her glaring at me, her eyes ablaze.

Yes dear? Did you need something?

Never mind John.

This routine would continue on, day in, and night out. I just could not get those thoughts out of my head. Those thoughts and I, we danced a primordial dance at an ancient gathering, and I would not stop; I could not stop.

No matter where I went, or who I was with, I was always brought back to it somehow. Maybe someone mentioned a key phrase, or a certain word, and I was thrown back into that stream of consciousness. I was a falling renegade leaf, which was caught in an updraft, and tossed around by the wind. I had no control, no power, and no choice. I had to.

It was the 6^th of June, and a wonderful summer day. The sun was beginning to set, and the temperatures were starting to cool down. I had just gotten off of work, and was heading home to Samantha. I had forgotten to call her, but I expected her to be home anyway. I knew that it had to be done tonight, and I became more anxious with every single minute that passed.

I parked my car in the driveway, and heading into our apartment. Most of the lights were off, but I heard Samantha in the other room watching TV, so I headed into the room.

Where have you been John?

Oh, I just got off of work. How was your day?

You didn’t call me, or text me, or anything of the sort, all day long, and all you ask is “How was your day?” Are you serious John? You’ve been so distant from me lately John and I can’t stand it. I never know when you’re coming home, or leaving, or what you’re doing, or where you’re going. I can’t stand it John, and I just can’t handle it…

She turned her back on me, staring at the wall, and waiting for my reply. I did not have many words, but I would indeed speak.

Samantha…she turned around to face me…will you marry me?

back to Contest #3