We slept in what had once been the gymnasium. If you could call it sleep. Exhaustion had simply gained purchase after running all night. Running in damned circles was what it seemed. The explosions had never stopped; the sound of which was dimmed only by the squawk of the air raid sirens, and the roar of the planes overhead.
The building currently crumbling ’round us provided a hiding spot of sorts. We few hunkering in the darkest corner possible; acting as if the bombs were actually seeking us out.
Archie lay in front of me, protecting me. He’s a good lad, and I hope to marry him one day – but not today. No, today we simply need to survive. Today, as the sun slowly rises, scaring the bombers away with its dawning, we need to once again gather up our bricks and begin to build anew. Readying for ourselves fresh hiding places for the next night to surely come.
•••
“Angela wasted no time in choosing a new opening line… Margret Atwood’s classic, The Handmaid’s Tale.”
as long as i'm singing 
In caring for the elderly, I have heard plenty of tales of the fear that comes with air raid sirens and the sounds of planes overhead. Your story perfectly encapsulates those words and the sense of helplessness.
I’m glad it clicked for you Corinne =) It’s hard to put yourself in shoes like those, so I’m glad I came across as believable – thanks!
A terrifying experience. One i hope never to have to.
You and me both!
I mean really, could you imagine falling in love with a man named “Archie?”
=)
EXACTLY!! I draw the line at men named Archie…what were Veronica and Betty thinking??
;)
Well, when you consider that their other option was to date a fellow named “Jughead…”
You really captured the fear and anxiety that must come from such an experience in really a very few words. I wanted to go whisk your characters away to safety!
Thank you Stacey – I’m glad it spoke to you in this fashion!
I’m hooked t. I can sense her anxiety, yet the calm she feels laying next to Archie. Even in the chaos he makes her feel safe.
Love conquers all?
Yes my dear t, it does.
These pieces are just scaring the crap out of me, apocolypes and I don’t get along. Yet, you made it GOOD and even somewhat romantic in a terrifying “we might not live until tomorrow way”.
I hope they find safety soon.
Thanks Kir, and I hope they do too =)
So scary and suspenseful.
I could imagine that kind of exhaustion. The body taking over. Well done!
Thank you, thank you – pray we never have to know of the experience personally!
The potential for a blooming love gives hope even under attack. Nice work T!
Thank you very much Marie!