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Golden Adrenaline
May 12, 2021|Short Story

Golden Adrenaline

Golden Adrenaline

When he woke up Jack remembered how important it was to keep moving. The morning cold became so unbearable that it turned common. Jack slept on a wooden table; resting in a place where he would not attract the attention of the world. Away from everything he remembered longingly, letting his imagination run wild while he slept.

Dawn was still a long way off. However, the pain he felt was irrelevant, the only thing that remained clear when he woke up was running away.

The feeling of having to protect his back didn’t diminish with time. It could even be said that it was increasing. It had been two weeks since the incident, since he had to do something that he did not expect to be capable of.

Jack opened his eyes and came back to reality, to the chill of the morning air that somehow seemed to be slightly warming his body, to the dampness of the dew. With his numb muscles he moved, noticing a pain on his neck.

I better find a new place to spend the night, he told himself, reaching the bottom of his head with one hand.

Shortly after he got up and went to look for his motorcycle in the bushes, well hidden to give him a little security. The world he lived in was dangerous, even for him.

Jack started the engine and felt the roar of combustion, immediately climbed up to feel the heat between his legs, and made sure to fasten the collar of his black leather jacket. Taking a pair of gloves from his pockets, he prepared to leave the temporary home where he had to spend the night.

The chill of dawn intensified with speed, the cool breeze crashing against his body, leaving an almost imperceptible layer of moisture on his blue jeans. Jack was used to the cold, he even learned to prefer it.

The trip took about fifteen minutes, riding on the empty city highways, until he reached the turnoff. There she was, in her carved black leather suit and her black motorcycle. Her head was covered by a helmet.

“It’s about time,” Dahlia said, lifting the motorcycle visor. “Come on, we’re running late.”

Jack didn’t have time to turn off his motorcycle engine and saw Dahlia speed up. This woman will be the death of me, he thought and sped after her.

The trip was longer than he expected, the motorcycles moved at high speeds on forgotten roads. Although for them, the bad conditions of the terrain, it was the best part of the trip.

Jack traveled close to Dahlia, close enough to let the rising dust pass under his motorcycle. They passed through vast ancient forests, over rustic wooden bridges, farther and farther from civilization.

Once Dahlia found the perfect spot she stopped, got down and removed her helmet. She opened one of the bags that hung on the side of her motorcycle.

Jack stopped a few steps from her, but before he could get down Dahlia approached him.

“Are you ready?” she asked.

Jack took off his helmet. “Better now than never.”

“This is going to help you,” she said as she finished rolling the joint in her hand, then she lit it.

Jack stared at Dahlia smoking for an instant, a part of him ready to reach out and receive the lit joint.

“The plan is simple,” she said and continued smoking. “On the riverbank we’ll find the merchandise. We may be the only ones here, but one can never be sure.” Finally Dahlia passed the joint.

Jack tried to hide his anxiety to reach it, but he couldn’t wait a second before placing it between his lips. The smoke entered his lungs quickly, for an instant Jack left behind all his memories or ideas…only concentrating on the sensations that were about to arrive. By letting the smoke out he already felt different. Anyway, he continued smoking.

“…I’ll take care of the motorcycles,” Dahlia said. “All you have to do is retrieve my package and get back here.”

“Okay…” said Jack, passing the joint.

Dahlia went off to smoke alone as she watched from the edge of the road the river at the feet of the hill. Then, she returned and passed the joint before heading to her motorcycle.

Jack went back to smoking… by now his body already felt different, the smoke lingered in his lungs for just an instant before letting it out. He continued smoking as if it were a normal cigarette, while he watched Dahlia search one of the bags on the side of her motorcycle.

“You might need this,” Dahlia said as she returned with a silver pistol gleaming with the rays of the sun.

Jack opened his mouth without noticing. “And…what is that for?”

“Just a precaution,” she said and handed over the gun. “It’s loaded…I have another one in case things get complicated.”

The river and the feet of the hill was the border dividing two countries. Dahlia hid the merchandise a week ago when she was followed by border agents. She was willing to do whatever it took to retrieve her investment.

“Okay,” Jack said and took the gun. Then, he passed the joint back to Dahlia.

Dahlia smoked while looking at Jack tucking the gun behind the belt on his back.

“How am I going to find the package?” asked Jack.

Dahlia pulled a small pair of binoculars out of her jacket. “Look at the rocks on the side of the road, a few feet from the river bank.”

Jack took the binoculars and got off his motorcycle, he walked towards the edge of the road to get a better angle. Before long he found the green square package. “I see it.”

“Finish this,” Dahlia said while releasing a cloud of smoke from her mouth.

Jack took the joint and smoked, watching the landscape in the distance. “Let’s do it,” he said as he tossed a small piece of paper and ash.

The two got back on their motorcycles and drove down the old road. Before long they stopped in front of the entrance to a barbed wire fence.

“From here you must continue on foot,” Dahlia said. “I take care of the motorcycles.”

Jack hung his helmet on the steering wheel and went on. I still don’t understand why she can’t retrieve the package herself, he thought. I don’t think the border guards will be around.

He carefully crossed the fence and followed a narrow path until reaching a small forest. He continued walking cautiously, making sure there was no one around. Soon after, he saw the river again, and found a small path down. Going through some brush he returned to the road that crosses the river and after wetting his boots to cross Jack found the package.

That wasn’t that difficult, he thought and tucked the merchandise inside his jacket. “Easy money,” he said and turned back… when he heard a familiar growl.

Jack immediately turned to find the source of the sound and saw two large dogs. He desperately looked for something to protect himself, a stick to keep them away. Nothing…the animals continued to growling.

One of them approached while the other descended towards the river. Jack noticed that they were surrounding him and decided to get back. Of course, the road where he previously crossed was protected by one of the animals, while the other continued approaching.

Jack began to cross and noticed that the river was deeper, he had no alternative. Stepping backward to not lose sight of the growling beasts. The water was up to his knees…the other dog crossed the river through the road to block the escape.

The beasts growl showing their fangs, Jack noted that they were very well fed and large―with their black eyes gleaming at him. The approaching dog also began to cross the river, both of them stalking him from different angles.

Jack could only back away, while he continued looking for something to defend himself with…when the animals started barking. I have to get out of here, he thought and picked up a rock from the river bank and threw it.

The dogs watched Jack turn and start running. The one who was still crossing the river went after him, while the other turned to return to the road.

Jack ran…looking for a way up to the forest. But the undergrowth and the uneven terrain made it difficult for him, while the dog ran a few steps behind him.

You can do it Jack, Dahlia thought when she heard the barking.

Jack kept running in search of a way back when he saw the second dog waiting in front of him. Damn it, he thought and changed his direction… unable to stop while the beasts followed closely behind. Dahlia, I’m going to kill you.

The path he had to take was getting further away, Jack had to find a way to climb towards the forest. Each step he took made the climb even more difficult. Jack reached for the gun at his back…I can’t.

The animals were running closely, trying to bite Jack’s ankles, but he kept his speed to avoid being caught.

If they wanted to hurt me they would have done by now, Jack thought and stopped to face them.

The growls became clearer as the dogs slowly moved around Jack.

Without a choice, Jake took the gun from his back and aimed at the dogs. I can’t do it, he thought and shot into the air.

The animals recoiled from the explosion.

“I don’t want to hurt you,” said Jack, watching the animals return to their aggressive state.

Jack tucked the gun behind his back and grabbed a branch from the ground.

The animals continued to stalk him.

Jack was breathing heavily as he looked from side to side for a path to escape. The forest he had to return to was so close, he only had to climb a wall. Jack continued to take steps backward.

“This way,” Dahlia said from the forest and threw a rope.

Jack looked up and ran to grab the rope.

The dogs ran behind him, one of them took him by the pants, while Jack tried to climb. The weight of the animal forced him to stop, Jack looked down and saw the other dog jumping, trying to reach him.

After a short time the pants ripped and Jack was able to continue climbing.

“Do you have the merchandise?” Dahlia asked when Jack reached the forest.

“Yeah…” said Jack, trying to catch his breath. “Why didn’t you tell me there were watchdogs?”

“Hurry, they must be coming,” said Dahlia and ran off.

Jack followed her to the motorcycles, the barking heard in the distance.

“You’re crazy,” Jack said when they were safe.

“Easy money,” Dahlia said, raising an eyebrow.

147 comments
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Sebastian Iturralde

I am a fiction blogger and lover of literature, art, and all things creative. As a citizen of this beautiful planet, I am constantly inspired by the natural world around me.

147 comments

  • May 12, 2021 at 5:31 pm

    Fantastic blog post! Please keep up the good work!

    • May 14, 2021 at 5:54 pm

      I guess this story was just a reminder of the great outdoors and its limitless possibilities. I’m glad you liked it.

  • May 12, 2021 at 5:55 pm

    “Easy money” for Jack and Dahlia, easy like from me to you. Incredible post, I gotta read more like this!

    • May 14, 2021 at 5:58 pm

      At this rate I’ll have to open a likes account to pay the rent. I’m very glad you enjoyed it. Let me know if you find another story that you like.

  • May 12, 2021 at 9:46 pm

    I really enjoy reading your blog! Really great work. I will definitely be back to read some more.

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:02 pm

      I’m very glad to hear it, after all who is an author without its readers. I hope to see you back soon, don’t forget to bring friends.

  • May 12, 2021 at 11:41 pm

    Great work. It felt like I was smoking lol. Great suspense. Time slowed down when those dogs came into the picture and almost got him by the pants!

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:05 pm

      I know, it was quite an unexpected adventure, luckily everything went well. It seemed that he was running out of options to escape. Thank you for your comment, it means a lot to me that you liked it.

      • May 14, 2021 at 10:42 pm

        It’s a great read and a great site. Love your artwork. Do you make them yourself?

  • Cheryl
    May 13, 2021 at 1:58 am

    Fabulous. Really drew me in! Thanks!

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:09 pm

      I think that’s the most important aspect of reading, letting ourselves be carried away by a story and living other people’s experiences. Thanks!

  • May 13, 2021 at 1:59 am

    This is so true. I preach about the importance of environment all the time. GREAT BLOG POST!!

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:10 pm

      I like that you noticed, we’re all together on this beautiful planet. Thanks!

  • May 13, 2021 at 3:04 am

    As someone who writes about the past and its dead, I enjoy reading your present. Refreshing!

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:12 pm

      Between the two of us…we could team up to read each other and get out of our literary routines. It is a pleasure!

      • May 15, 2021 at 1:44 am

        That is an excellent idea!

  • May 13, 2021 at 4:57 am

    So true!

  • May 13, 2021 at 6:13 am

    There’s an anecdote about Fred Astaire. It says he owes his success to his sister. She was his dancing partner, and when she married, he had to go out and find a new one.

    Enter: Ginger Rogers.

    Cheers!

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:16 pm

      It seems that everything in life comes when one is ready to receive it. Thank you for this anecdote and I hope you are enjoying my stories.

  • May 13, 2021 at 9:09 am

    THANKFULLY TO YOU

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:22 pm

      Creo que es demasiado pero lo aceptaré con humildad, espero verte pronto para más relatos.

  • May 13, 2021 at 9:35 am

    What a cool story, I’m always on the lookout for talented writers. I have a short story podcast. I was wondering if I could read this story on my podcast ?

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:26 pm

      Thank you, it pleases me to know that it was of your liking. It would be an honor to hear it on a podcast, don’t forget to mention my url so more people can enjoy my stories. If you want, you could leave the link to the podcast as a comment for others to find.

      • May 14, 2021 at 6:40 pm

        I have done that with others I will do it for you as well

      • June 13, 2021 at 7:31 am

        it is set to run in November of 2021

  • May 13, 2021 at 12:12 pm

    🙂 x

  • May 13, 2021 at 9:09 pm

    Awesome story! Well crafted and written. And it has motorcycles.

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:33 pm

      I also loved the motorcycles in it, and I’m glad to know that you enjoyed my story. Hope to see you soon for more stories.

  • May 13, 2021 at 9:28 pm

    Didn’t mean to steal your line…’Be especially patient with those loved ones…’ REALLY like your layout. Keep up the Good work.

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:35 pm

      Of course I’ll continue creating, thank you. Hope to see you back so you can enjoy the layout.

  • May 14, 2021 at 12:40 am

    A really nice read. cheers.

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:36 pm

      Good to know you enjoyed it, I’ll keep working to create other stories like this one.

  • May 14, 2021 at 12:41 am

    Great Blog Seb. very interesting

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:37 pm

      It has been a long time job and tuning thanks to the feedback from my readers. Hope to see you back for more stories.

  • May 14, 2021 at 6:59 am

    “Easy money”? Yeah, right. Good story!

    • May 14, 2021 at 6:45 pm

      The only easy money comes after years of hard work without reward, like that of a writer. I hope to see you for my next story.

  • May 15, 2021 at 8:16 am

    Wonderful articulation. Amazing short story.

    • May 16, 2021 at 6:15 pm

      I write them with love so that my readers can enjoy each word. I’ll wait for you to come back.

      • May 17, 2021 at 9:04 am

        I surely am going to read the next one soon. 🙂

  • May 15, 2021 at 2:58 pm

    That was a close call! Compelling writing.

    • May 16, 2021 at 6:29 pm

      For an instant I thought there was no escape. Luckily it had a happy ending, I hope you can visit next week for my new story.

  • May 15, 2021 at 11:13 pm

    Hmm interesting thought of line

    • May 16, 2021 at 7:17 pm

      I hope you enjoyed the story, come back soon.

      • May 16, 2021 at 7:36 pm

        Oh, I’m hooked. Never fear, I’ll always be back God-willing …
        Also, I think I could try to be a little more redundant in some of my messages that I don’t edit! I hate that I almost always have mistakes in everything I post! 🙁 That is part of the reason I enjoy your stories, because you never have typos 🙂 God bless

  • May 16, 2021 at 7:22 am

    Amazing, well written.

    • May 16, 2021 at 7:23 pm

      I’m very happy to know that you enjoyed my story. I’ll have another one next week if you’d like to come back.

  • May 16, 2021 at 7:31 am

    this was freat story. i want to know about the paintings you put at the above of every post. Did you draw it or what?

    • May 16, 2021 at 7:26 pm

      Thank you, nice to know that you enjoyed my story. The illustrations were found online and then tweaked to fit my blog’s style. If you want to see more I recommend you to return for more stories.

  • May 16, 2021 at 10:47 am

    Gripping. Enjoyed the adrenaline rush of danger and suspense in this short read

    • May 16, 2021 at 7:31 pm

      In that case my work served its purpose. I hope you can enjoy more of my stories.

  • May 16, 2021 at 1:57 pm

    beautiful work I admire am sorry cannot speak spanish

    • May 16, 2021 at 7:39 pm

      Thank you, I’m very glad that you are enjoying my work. Don’t worry about Spanish, I’ll have English translations, just come back for more stories.

  • May 16, 2021 at 5:29 pm

    Love the story, love the setting, as I do all of your stories. But I am curious as to the backgroung stories of your characters. That could defeat your purpose, though, of a short story though 🙂

    • May 16, 2021 at 7:44 pm

      Actually my characters have very well established pasts and relationships with each other. But, to be friendly with all my readers, I’ve dedicated myself to short stories. I’ll try to create something more extensive for special readers, like you. In the meantime I hope to see you back for more.

  • May 17, 2021 at 9:15 am

    I like starting a story right in the middle of an action scene. Who needs foreplay? Definitely a good read!

    • May 18, 2021 at 10:39 am

      I like to know it, the truth is that in certain circumstances this is the best way to create. I hope you come back to enjoy my stories.

  • May 17, 2021 at 2:55 pm

    Great piece!

  • May 17, 2021 at 3:59 pm

    Thanks for looking at my blog and liking my posts

  • OmegaPoint
    May 18, 2021 at 9:16 am

    I tried to read but it’s a little though. Do you know anyone who would be willing to help edit your work?

    • May 18, 2021 at 10:49 am

      I really wish I had someone, although your suggestion has been noted. Thanks for your help.

  • May 18, 2021 at 12:00 pm

    Thank you for the ”likes” on my website!

    Happy someone i dont know read my stuff…

    And i was curious about you, so i go see your
    website… Nice story telling i think, for
    the little bits i have read so far!

    Continu… 🙂

    PS: Write to me if you want to exange more

    • May 18, 2021 at 8:40 pm

      Thanks for stopping by and for maintaining your blog, I’ll also “like” your posts in the future. Let me know if you like more of my stories.

      • May 20, 2021 at 5:50 pm

        I will be a little bit more motivated to write more
        stuff on the website, as I have at least 1 reader… 🙂

        This is what you mean no? That you will read
        the futur posts?

        Great that!

        And I will try to read more of your stuff if i find
        the time for this..

        That you for writting back to me like this, it is
        appreciated.

        Manu Ka

  • May 18, 2021 at 6:46 pm

    So far so interesting, I didn’t complete it because i want to leave a comment before I go drink some water

  • May 19, 2021 at 12:20 am

    I really enjoyed this blog post! Great job!!!

  • May 19, 2021 at 6:37 am

    I tried contacting you, could you let me know how to? Or you do it? Its important, Thanks.

    • May 19, 2021 at 8:49 am

      It will be a pleasure. Remember that my new story will be ready very soon.

  • May 19, 2021 at 12:38 pm

    no habla Española; and what do you mean: those closest to you will lead you astray? truer words spoken, yet I think Barbara says it best: People who needs people are the luckiest…’ do you know of this sentiment or care for it? No matter, be kind when famous.

    • May 21, 2021 at 8:19 am

      The truth is that we need to hear our instincts despite the advice of others. However, we live in a world of beings and it would be a shame to waste existence without having others around. Thanks for your warm wishes.

  • May 19, 2021 at 2:26 pm

    Great piece! Nice cliffhanger 😉👍🏾

    • May 21, 2021 at 8:41 am

      Thanks Lawrence, I hope the rest of my stories fulfill your expectations.

      • May 21, 2021 at 8:56 am

        The piece was inspiring. It seized my attention and that was it: all the way, then, gee… the cliffhanger! 🤩 In time I’ll read more of your pieces.

  • May 20, 2021 at 12:32 pm

    What A Bolg Brother, That Awesome ♥️

    • May 21, 2021 at 11:04 am

      I’m very happy to know that you like my blog. I hope you can find the time to return as that is all the support I need to continue.

      • May 21, 2021 at 11:20 am

        I always support You Bhai ❤

  • May 20, 2021 at 5:00 pm

    Great writing, as always. Which language do you write in first? (I can’t tell!)

    • May 21, 2021 at 11:08 am

      Thank you, I really appreciate it. As far as the language, everything depends on the day and the mood.

  • May 20, 2021 at 8:20 pm

    Thank you. Love your story.

    • May 21, 2021 at 11:11 am

      It’s a pleasure to share my stories. I hope you can enjoy more of them.

  • May 22, 2021 at 12:37 am

    Yes!

  • May 23, 2021 at 1:09 am

    A compelling, fast paced, short story with characters that make the reader curious and want more.

  • Jon
    May 24, 2021 at 10:42 am

    Really enjoyed it. Keep up the Great work!!!

  • May 24, 2021 at 12:29 pm

    Nice work ✨✨

    • May 29, 2021 at 9:05 am

      Butterfly, I really appreciate knowing that you are enjoying my work.

  • May 24, 2021 at 12:29 pm

    I just started to read your work

    • May 29, 2021 at 9:06 am

      Butterfly, there is still a lot to come. Hope to see you back soon for my weekly stories.

  • Ilsa Shafi
    May 25, 2021 at 7:02 am

    🔥🔥🔥🫀

    • May 29, 2021 at 9:29 am

      Ilsa, you seemed to enjoy my work. I post stories every Wednesday if you want to read more.

  • May 25, 2021 at 9:45 am

    Another great read and looking forward to this week’s short story.

    • May 29, 2021 at 9:42 am

      Nancy, I’m happy to know that you enjoyed it. This week’s story has links to all the chapters of the series… it can also be enjoyed without knowing everything that happened. I hope you like it.

  • May 26, 2021 at 2:52 am

    “The plan is simple.”
    No plan is ever simple… 😅

    • May 29, 2021 at 10:15 am

      Zsoro, you are right. The truth is that we’re in a world full of lies for us to accept the most ruthless plans. Thank you for stopping by.

  • May 26, 2021 at 3:59 am

    Descriptive writing and its best. Awesome!!!!!!!

    • May 29, 2021 at 10:18 am

      Satish, I’m pleased to know that you enjoyed my story. We’re in this world to find things that we like; I like reading comments such as yours. Thanks.

  • kesaliravenshadow
    May 26, 2021 at 12:39 pm

    A very creative story!

  • June 1, 2021 at 5:25 am

    Lots of tension and intrigue in that story! The paintings that you publish with every story are as good as the writing. Are they yours?

    • June 2, 2021 at 12:32 pm

      Morgana, I hope you enjoyed it. Sorry to disappoint, but I find them online and tune them to match my blog style.

  • June 5, 2021 at 9:45 pm

    so good.I hope to read this series of short stories.So great of you to share your written expression.in suspense.

    • June 7, 2021 at 11:03 am

      Reensarai, I’m glad you liked it. Suspense is one of my favorite genres to write.

  • peter
    June 6, 2021 at 11:15 pm

    nicely written. and thanks for your comment on mine.
    cheers

    • June 7, 2021 at 11:25 am

      Peter, I’m happy that you arrived. You are welcome when you want.

  • June 7, 2021 at 11:00 am

    I almost thought Jack would come crashing down with his pant! Found it an engaging read!

  • June 9, 2021 at 12:53 pm

    I enjoy the fluidity of your story-telling. You have mastered the art of engaging your readers. Great job 👍

    • June 12, 2021 at 10:04 am

      It’s a pleasure to share it with you. 😌

      • July 6, 2021 at 12:59 am

        Thank you very much. Would really like to get your inputs on my creative efforts.

  • June 10, 2021 at 4:00 am

    I felt this😌

  • June 11, 2021 at 12:51 am

    Dear Sebastian, Very illuminating story.

  • June 16, 2021 at 6:33 am

    Beautiful , captivating and so realistic. I love the way you captured my attention with the first few sentences. Beautiful

    • June 20, 2021 at 12:50 pm

      I hope to have you around for the launch of my novel.

      • June 22, 2021 at 4:08 am

        Sure , just let me know when you are ready
        Good luck

  • June 20, 2021 at 2:47 pm

    True

  • June 25, 2021 at 2:23 am

    I love this story, it’s fascinating. Are you an author? I’d love to read a book of yours.

    • June 27, 2021 at 9:15 am

      I’m currently working on my first novel.

      • June 27, 2021 at 1:30 pm

        Cool. I’d love it if you announced it here when it’s published.

  • June 27, 2021 at 7:51 pm

    Perfect, I love it!!!!
    Thanks for sharing

  • July 21, 2021 at 11:40 am

    Woah, that was intense.

  • July 21, 2021 at 11:55 am

    Wow…so cool and enticing. The imagery is wonderfull. By any chance, is this the same Jack in the Crashing Wings story?

  • November 22, 2021 at 10:18 pm

    Do you mind if I quote a couple of your articles
    as long as I provide credit and sources back to your site?
    My website is in the very same niche as yours and my visitors would truly benefit from some of the information you provide here.
    Please let me know if this okay with you. Many thanks!

  • November 24, 2021 at 12:49 am

    I am no longer sure where you are getting your information,
    however good topic. I must spend a while finding out more or figuring out more.
    Thanks for fantastic info I used to be searching for this information for my
    mission.

  • November 25, 2021 at 1:58 pm

    This was really good!!!!

  • November 29, 2021 at 9:34 am

    Great writing, Sebastian! I lean more toward nonfiction, but I enjoyed this. You have a very smooth style. I couldn’t see a button to follow your blog … can you help with that? Also, I see that you’ve been reading my posts, too — I sure appreciate that! Thanks and keep up the great work! 🙂

  • Predictably Unpredictable
    April 27, 2022 at 3:36 am

    You can’t beat a motorcycle ride! 😉

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    Author's Note
    The Andes' highlands served as a source of inspiration for this short story. I hope you'll find the same beauty and wonder in its words that I did while crafting it.
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