The Twenty Third Birthday

A flash fiction story centered in a Dystopian world. 239 words

“The Twenty Third Birthday” (239 words)

Results: Inessential

The Analyzer flicks off the screen.

“I don't understand,” I say, pulling against my restraints to see the papers in her hand.

She hands them to me and makes the Call.

I flip through the lists of tested categories: logic, athleticism, linguistics, and on for three pages. The scores are below fifty and that's all they needed to decide I'm disposable.

The papers drop on the linoleum and scatter. The Analyzer doesn't turn around as she leaves.

I studied for this all my life. I walked in the cell today wearing the issued white clothes and my brown hair tied back, confident I would see tomorrow.

The man's shoes squeak as he walks in. He's short with ketchup smeared on his t-shirt.

“The test is missing categories,” I stammer.

He steps on one of the papers and catches himself before he slips. “Don't bother begging,” he croaks, “you don't have what we need.”

“I've been running clubs and excelled in school!” I argued. “How could I not be useful?”

He ignores me and goes to measure the liquid with fumbling fingers before just dumping it in the syringe.

“This is illogical,” I say.

The man leans in close, his warm breath wet in my ear and the smell of smoke clouds my nose. “You're pathetic.”

He places the needle in the crook of my arm. There is no need to disinfect the site.  

Author's Note

I have 3 flash fictions to choose from for something called "Graphic Flash." The stories will be interpreted for a film and for a painting. I want it to be the best, so please make any suggestions.

Reviews

[Kawaiikitty96]

I love the details! Awesome work. I suppose one way that you could make it better is to provide a little work background information, but it was still really good! :)

[Kawaiikitty96]

I meant "more" not "work."