|Parallel| Universe

posted in: Fiction | 8

The wind blew mercilessly in the cold, dark night. Unbeknownst to him, a pair of brown eyes followed his every move through a small binoculars. Adjusting their position to get a full view of him, they watched as he got out of the truck, closing the creeky door with a loud bang. He walked slowly, his boots landing heavy on the puddles on the road, disturbing the round reflection of the streetlights in the water.

He carefully unlocked the rusted padlocks and started to offload the goods covered in thick plastic. In a flash, they appeared on either side of him. With a gun pointed at his temple, he immediately shut his eyes and begged for his life. His hands held in the air and tears flowed down his cheeks. He appealed to their softer side… he’s a father, a husband. Ignoring his pleas, the accomplice grabbed a few parcels and scurried off into one of the narrow lanes, splashing water against the dirty brick walls that stood as silent witnesses. His life was spared.

Later that night, with their balaclavas neatly hidden deep in a secret drawer, they smile broadly into their innocent children’s faces. “Mummy and Daddy got a surprise for you tonight – a brand new story book!” The children giggled with excitement, grabbing the book to smell the newness of the pages. They stole a glance at each other, satisfied with the night’s events. A pile of thick plastic lay carelessly in the bin outside their tiny dwelling.

Follow Saajida Akabor:

Digital Copywriter

Freelance digital copywriter; animal-lover; reader; photography enthusiast; and a tea drinker.

8 Responses

  1. Kavir

    Wow a really gripping piece! I could feel the fear of the victim, the ignorance of the thieves and the innocence of the child. Hope to read many more such stories

    • Saajida

      Thanks 🙂 I tried to address a common problem – crime – but with a small twist: the unethical means to educate your child when your financial position won’t allow it.

      Glad you liked it.

  2. nitetimecoffee

    This is so well written! I loved the concept because it really rings true to our human characteristics! Having a family to support while being financially unstable can put us at the risk of committing a crime. I enjoyed this read. (:

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