The noises had led me to the bathroom. I could never have imagined the macabre scene on the other side. My scream folded onto itself, tightening my throat.
Sandra was lying on the floor, a half-filled glass next to her. Bottles were strewn everywhere. The reds of the wine mixing in with the reds of the bloody water overflowing from the tub. Dad was talking to 911 as Mom did everything possible to stop the bleeding.
Snapshots of our life flashed before my eyes, bringing forth tears as uncertainty and terror fought to assert their presence over me. Why had she punished herself in this horrendous way ? Why hadn’t she come to us for help? We would have done anything for her. Had she thought about us even once? What if … ??! No ! Our family would be destroyed, an empty shell. We loved her so much. With each tear, a new prayer left my lips for a stronger us, a better tomorrow.
The sirens prompted my father to carry her outside.
I got into the ambulance, clenching onto her hand that felt almost alien. My mouth making inconsequential sounds of comfort.
A finger moved.
Laughter pierced my thoughts dragging me back, “ Sadie !! Help us decorate the tree .”
The horror of what could have happened that night often rattles me to the core. I moved towards Sandra‘s smiling face, ever grateful for the resilience of life and family.
She's been sober five years now.
4 comments:
Nice work, Adisha! Beautifully composed.
I loved the one you submitted, the most :)
By the way, this story reminded me of this year's Oscar nominated movie: Rachel Getting Married. Do watch it if you haven't! :)
Really, You should compile a book. Short stories!
Well written.
Ah I quite liked the end in this one. Great narration. And the husbands POV really worked well here. :P
With a little more editing on this one its a tough call for me about which one I liked better, this one or the one you sent.
Great work as always. :P
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