Short Stories

Reaching my Destination

Looking back on this story, it is actually really bad... meh. Enjoy it anyway.

Far in the distance, civilisation was beginning to form. Building by building, skyscraper by skyscraper, my destination was coming into view. The concrete, dusty ground beneath me scorched my toes through my light sandals and the flaming heat above me did nothing to quench my thirst. Sweat glistened on my brow like icicles in winter. Also, I was stupid enough to forget to bring a hat or any form of protection. I could feel my skin blistering almost, from the heat emanating from the sky above. The road was gradually getting shorter. This walk felt like a marathon, but the heat felt like a desert.

The leather knapsack on my back was heavy and annoying, its contents so useless and unneeded by me that I was considering dumping it where I stood. Apparently though, this equipment was 'crucial' and 'of greatest importance'. I rolled my eyes objectionably. It was just a nuisance.

Though my walk was getting shorter, as was my strides. My legs were tiring and my back was aching. I looked at the watch on my wrist. 12:48 pm it shone. Uh oh. It was supposed to start at 1 and the 'Crucial Supplies' were on my back.

Despite my discomfort, despite my pain, despite the sun, I started running. My legs ran in sync with my arms and my breath was getting ragged. It was a matter of one step in front of the other, no thoughts discouraging me. I was panting like a madman. Sweat dripped down my neck ten times faster than before.

The buildings and skyscrapers were getting closer and suddenly, I was in the city. I ran along the roads, humid air streaming through the curly, stuck-up strands of hair escaping my ponytail. I watched the store signs beside me and finally found the one I was looking for. The huge banner that stretched the front of the building read 'CHARLESTOWN ANNUAL COOKING COMPETITION' and the steps welcomed me as I tread up the stairs. Cold air blasted my face as I walked in the door and I almost stopped to unwind in the gratifying chill air. Air conditioners! I almost swooned. Expeditiously and rushed, I checked my watch. 12:58. Phew! And two minutes to spare! My head moved frantically from side to side looking for my mother. Many contestants were setting up around the place and finally I spotted the bright, flaming red hair I resemble with my mother. On my way over, I dodged roughly ten other contestants and nearly broke a toe. Why corners were invented, I would never understand. Finally, I made it to my mum.

"Mum!" I called.

I came to a stop in front of her. Placing my hands on my knees, I panted, "Mum... I've... I've got the... the stuff!" and dropped the knapsack on the floor anterior to her.

"That's great darling... but, I just realised that they already supply the equipment! Silly me!"

"What!" And I walked off to the air-conditioners.