The Wait

A boy who longs for death.

Benjamin Card was lying in his bed. It was a peaceful summer night, the crickets were chirping, and the owls were hooting. Ben was listening to every single sound coming from his window. He has always had a disquisitive and discerning mind through thick and thin. Tonight, Ben was waiting for something or someone. He watched the window like a hawk. Suddenly, the clock chimed midnight, and a figure materialized out of thin air. The figure was wearing a dragging coat of black that looked like a piece of the dim night sky. The figure bore a gleaming, sharp scythe. It sat on the windowsill as if waiting for Ben to approach it. Ben had been waiting for this moment for the last two years. He slowly stepped toward the figure as it held out its hand. Death had finally come to collect him, and he was happy.

Reviews

[!]

I really liked this piece! You've made great use of atmosphere and setting, I felt real dread when the reaper materialized (that line about its coat being the color of dim night sky is outstanding). The ending is bleak and quiet, which I think is appropriate, but I kind of wish there had been a clue or two that Benjamin was dying before the final line. Thanks for writing and sharing!

[iiqquay]

Thank you!