“What We Do To Survive”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

A single bright light shoots across the sky, illuminating the night.

“Look, look!” Gavin squeals, pointing a chubby finger up at the spark. “Star!”

I smile down at him and tousle his hair. “Yes, that’s right. It’s a pretty star, isn’t it?”

I lean back slightly, letting him rest against me as he stares up at the night sky, his eyes wide with wonder. I release a barely audible sigh; I remember when the world was a place of wonder for me as well.

“Nessie, eat now?” Gavin asks me, turning his attention to me.

I swallow a small lump in my throat. “Sure thing,” I say, forcing a smile onto my face. “I’ll be right back.”

I help him prop himself up so that I can fetch some food. I duck into our tent and take a deep breath.

Think, Vanessa, think. What can you give Gavin to eat?

My eyes land on the backpack beside my blanket. I clench my jaw, the thought of how I got the bag making me sick. Still, it might be the only way for Gavin to survive.

I steel myself and grab the backpack, opening it to reveal the cans of food inside. I scoop out a can, pausing when I see the inscription on the inside of the bag.

‘This bag is the property of Killian Buretta, proud father of Harriet and Penny Buretta.’

A quiet whimper escapes from me as I throw the backpack away from me. I clutch the can tightly as I make my way back out to Gavin. He’s still staring up at the sky, completely oblivious to me. Oblivious like he was when I obtained the backpack.

“Here you go, buddy,” I tell him, nudging him softly. “One gourmet meal coming right up.”

He grins up at me as I hand him the can. I fight back my tears as he starts shoveling the food into his mouth.

I tear my attention away from him and look back up at the sky. I watch as another spark flies through the sky. I squeeze my eyes tightly closed and try to rid my memory of the death at the end of the light’s path.

Final Comments: This one took a while to gain momentum. I didn’t really have a clear idea of how I wanted it to end until about halfway through. I honestly think that this was one of my worst so far.

Overall Rating: 😩