The Rescue

Short story/poem.

When I opened my eyes, there was dust all around.

I opened my dry mouth but couldn't make a sound.

I could hear the echo of some crows nearby,

Surely they were hoping I would hurry and die.

 

There were no trees, only sand and the sun.

I wanted to get away but I could not run.

I could not even walk, or get up on my feet.

The crows were getting closer now, my heart skipping beats.

 

I glanced at my boots, the tattered ends of my dress.

I didn't know who I was or how I got into this mess.

My mind was a blank slate, and the crows were getting close.

My skin was red and hurting, the texture of toast.

 

I yearned for a sip of water, the shade of an oak.

Some sweet lemonade, the comfort of my winter cloak.

I looked up and seen black shadows swarming above my head,

I could hear the crows screeching, the singing of the dead.

 

I curled into a ball and held onto my knees.

I knew I couldn't fight them off, I was too weak.

But then I heard wagon wheels, the galloping of hooves.

I didn't know if I was dreaming and I was still afraid to move.

 

"Hey you there!" I heard someone yell as I picked up my head.

He came just in time, another minute and I would be dead.

He came running over and lifted me up into his arms.

"Let's get you some water and back to the farm."

 

I wanted to say thank you and ask him his name.

But my throat was still dry, and my mouth the same.

He secured me in the carriage and away we went.

Today I was rescued by someone heaven sent.