‘Miscellany’ Archives
One Story, Two Endings
By SHELIA BLAND FIRST ENDINGRain plays rhythms on my coat and hood as I make my way to the inevitable meetup. I use these beats to block out any thoughts of the approaching confrontation. Puddles jump up in surprise and protest as I rudely slam the weight of my feet down in the midst of their watery realities. I hurry, unfazed by these reactive pushbacks.The target location is just in sight. I steel myself lunging forward. The fight is on. I arrive. Though the place is lit outside, inside seems dark. This is the assigned location. Ground zero. It should be open for business.If necessary, we have this showdown in the street. There is no going back.I push the door. It opens. I move in. In the darkness I see bodies seated around the room.I’ll wait here…Mid-thought, my opponent is upon me.“Let’s do this.”“Yes, lets.”Suddenly, there’s light and…“SURPRISE!!!”“What…”Laughter and glee ring out. I am surrounded.“You are so easy to play. I knew the best way to [...]
