Convenience Store Short

By Daniel Mer

There is a hope in the dew drops. Shade in the shadows. Pride in death and sorrow in life.

The woman , Sarah, walked up the road feeling disconnected by her feet and legs. Looking down as if half connected to these alien attachments to her body. The paste was swift never enough time in the day.

Had to make it to the store before closing. Milk is needed. Kids and baby at home with Tony. Can’t be trusted for too long. Store is closing. Anxiety. Stress. Beeping car. Puddles. Splashing.

Victor has an aching back and is sick of taking pain killers. The side effects worry him and Dr. Leonard just keeps scribbling away signatures and prescription cards but is weak on advice. “Mr. Romataj, I am sorry but this is the best I can do”. There must be more he can do. Must be. I wonder if this is what my dad went through. 68 years old. I guess this is what happens. In the pain and struggle there is hope. In the dusk there is hope for darkness and a break from the sun’s beaming optimism.

Timmy is 16 and happy go lucky. Phone attached to hip at all times. Texts from friend 1. “yo kid let’s hit up joey’s lata”. Friend 6 “hey whatcha doin dawg”. Or the sent texts “hey cutie ttyl”. All the literary inspiration included in such seamless digital format. Walking with his head down focused on letters. Walking quickly and swiftly as if a car striding between orange cones in a driving test.  He came in to Hallgreens for some munchies and for a cigar.

All three worlds are about to collide.