Short Stories

Cooking

The flames licked the edge of the pan as the final product was on its way. His hand gripped the handle of the pan, re-positioning it for safety reasons, then he continued frantically searching the kitchen for the correct ingredients and utensils. The door bell sounded, a knock on the front door followed in suit, and he stopped in his tracks. The sound of the endless string of profanities that slipped out of his once-polite mouth was the only sound that broke the silence through the small apartment. He readjusted his outfit and put on a small smirk, trailing over to the door. In one swift moment it was open; only to show a girl, dressed in a pretty pink formal dress, falling to mid-thigh, accentuating her every curve; in the most perfect way. Her black hair cascaded down to her hips, slightly flowing in the night's subtle wind. A small smile formed on her thin face. She squeaked out a hello, with his hello stuck in his throat as he looked at the stunning sight that stood before him. His jaw sat comfortably on the floor and his whole body was slumped forward, yet tense. It was like a scene from a cartoon show.

The plates clinked as the two enjoyed the meal; filling the silence with a small conversation about nothing in particular. Her phone rang, but she quickly dismissed it; not wanting to ruin the perfect moment. His hand slid across the mahogany table, slipping over her cold hand. Her eyes caught his, and they both fell into the moment. They continued to gaze into each others eyes, never breaking contact, until the kitchens smoke alarm went off. Slightly dazed, the man scooted off his chair and made a beeline to the kitchen - only to see it was completely consumed by bright flames. He let out a small, surprised shriek, heading back to the woman and guiding her to the back of the house, while asking her to call triple zero. Her panicked self was soon comforted in a warm hug. They were pulled out of their dream world as a loud crack sounded from the burnt room. The flames now visible from this part of the house. The smoke stealing their oxygen.