They say friends are the family we choose for ourselves, but I would say only true friends can become family. There had been eight of us in the group, a mixed bunch of teenagers with only one dream to rise above the squalor which seemed endemic in our nation. We had big dreams, dreams we were willing to die for; at least at that stage of life we thought so. As the years went by each one drifted in a different direction life took its toll, but through it all Raju, Farhan and I stayed together subconsciously knitting our way into a family unit.
I sit here in my chair looking at the picture reminiscing on our adventures, I can’t help smiling at the young boys who sought to conquer the world. A shadow falls over my shadow I look up to see my friends smiling at the picture with tears in their eyes. They have come to bid me farewell they were my only family and by midnight I shall no longer be with them.
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In response to the writing challenge flash fiction for aspiring writers hosted by Priceless Joy. The photograph was provided and we are expected to write a 100 – 150 words (+/- 25 words) story inspired by it. Do click on the link for other stories.
Thank you Joy for hosting and thank you Ellespeth’s friend for the photograph.
Thank you for stopping by.
A lovely reflective story, Chioma, tinged with sadness and regret. The ending is particularly poignant, and leaves us with questions: what is going to happen to her at midight? If she is going to die, she couldn’t know that it would be midnight. The shadow falling over her shadow is very thought-provoking, too. Some good descriptons in this piece.
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Thanks Millie, his going to die at midnight.
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It’s interesting that he should know that.
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His chosen euthanasia.
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Thank you. 🙂
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He had been ill and decided it was best to die whilst his friends could be with him.
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That makes a lot of sense. Wise choice. 🙂
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LOL guess what Millie I just realized I had the opportunity to send the main character in different directions and I ruined it by choosing one. O darn it, I have be desiring to write a piece that has that kind of ending. O well unto the next one.
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If you’re talking about the euthanasia, he still had time to change his mind in your story. It wasn’t midnight yet. 🙂
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This is a beautiful story albeit, sad at the end. I think it is wonderful he was able to choose this death for himself so he can have his friends with him. Excellently written.
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Thank you Joy
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I thought that the main character would go somewhere far, far away from his home and his friends. And I didn’t think he’d die. 😦
(I would like some capslock here and there, but I decided against it.)
I loved the bittersweet contained in this story, their friendship, and how you described it all was really beautiful.
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Thank you. Hope you don’t mind my asking, I don’t quite understand the capslock aspect.
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At least he had his chosen family around him during his final hours. Bittersweet is definitely the best word to describe the story. Nicely done. 🙂
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Thank you.
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I like to stop by occassionally and express my appreciation to those who participate on the Flash Fiction for Aspiring Writers challenge. I appreciate your continued participation. I look forward to reading your stories each week and I am sure the others do too. Thank you for your continued friendship and loyalty!
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You’re welcome.
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Beautiful, sad and reflective story! At least he has a few friends left at the end of his life 🙂
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It’s all we can ask for, a peaceful and if possible happy exit.
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To true 🙂
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