My Short Short for the Day

"Be quiet! Don't move!" He growled.

She shrank down into the darkness scared as the light disappeared. He was drunk again. There was no telling what he might do. She did as he said. She had learned long ago how to remain utterly still. Even how to curl up just right so that he wouldn't even see her chest rise and fall with each breath. She didn't dare close her eyes but she locked her mouth shut breathing silently through her nose.

It was so dark and cramped in the closet. This was the latest hotel room. They never stayed anywhere for long. Her father would be ok for a day or two but then one sip and he was meaner than any imaginary monster

Every so often she dared to peek outside but only when he was passed out. Even then she would peek for a moment or two, looking over her shoulder to be sure he wasn't stirring. The world outside was so beautiful. She saw kids laughing and playing. Moms and Dads smiling. The air was cool and fresh. The sun so warm on her cheek. This time she had lost herself in a daydream and didn't hear him wake. He bundled her up in an old blanket and shoved her into the closet.

He ranted and raved for a long time but at least in here, she could tune him out. She could imagine what it might feel like to be happy. To enjoy something...anything. Her stomach growled and she froze. It sounded like thunder to her so she held her breath dreading the footsteps. Praying he wouldn't come. The minutes ticked away and nothing. Maybe he had fallen asleep again. Oh, please, please let him be asleep. Gradually she relaxed and let her breathing return to normal. She stared into the darkness but didn't see the dingy closet door, instead she imagined a big house with a white picket fence, green grass, and pretty flowers all around. She pictured a lovely mother and kind father playing with her in the yard. There was a cute little puppy racing around after a small red ball. The sun shone brightly and a gentle breeze drifted lazily along. She smiled.