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.
“Itās 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 weāll 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 ideasā¦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.”
“Okayā¦” 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 smokingā¦ 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. “Andā¦what is that for?”
“Just a precaution,” she said and handed over the gun. “It’s loadedā¦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 backā¦ 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. Nothingā¦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 kneesā¦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 largeāwith 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 withā¦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 ranā¦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 directionā¦ 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 backā¦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.
“Yeahā¦” 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.
Fantastic blog post! Please keep up the good work!
I guess this story was just a reminder of the great outdoors and its limitless possibilities. I’m glad you liked it.
“Easy money” for Jack and Dahlia, easy like from me to you. Incredible post, I gotta read more like this!
At this rate I’ll have to open a likes account to pay the rent. Iām very glad you enjoyed it. Let me know if you find another story that you like.
I really enjoy reading your blog! Really great work. I will definitely be back to read some more.
Iām 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.
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!
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.
Itās a great read and a great site. Love your artwork. Do you make them yourself?
Fabulous. Really drew me in! Thanks!
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!
This is so true. I preach about the importance of environment all the time. GREAT BLOG POST!!
I like that you noticed, weāre all together on this beautiful planet. Thanks!
As someone who writes about the past and its dead, I enjoy reading your present. Refreshing!
Between the two of usā¦we could team up to read each other and get out of our literary routines. It is a pleasure!
That is an excellent idea!
So true!
Truths are often hidden in beautiful lies for some to find. Thanks!
You’re welcome!
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!
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.
THANKFULLY TO YOU
Creo que es demasiado pero lo aceptarƩ con humildad, espero verte pronto para mƔs relatos.
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 ?
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.
I have done that with others I will do it for you as well
it is set to run in November of 2021
That is wonderful.
I ran the story today, I hope I did your words justice.
š x
I hope you enjoyed it alot.
Awesome story! Well crafted and written. And it has motorcycles.
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.
Didn’t mean to steal your line…’Be especially patient with those loved ones…’ REALLY like your layout. Keep up the Good work.
Of course Iāll continue creating, thank you. Hope to see you back so you can enjoy the layout.
A really nice read. cheers.
Good to know you enjoyed it, I’ll keep working to create other stories like this one.
Great Blog Seb. very interesting
It has been a long time job and tuning thanks to the feedback from my readers. Hope to see you back for more stories.
“Easy money”? Yeah, right. Good story!
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.
Wonderful articulation. Amazing short story.
I write them with love so that my readers can enjoy each word. Iāll wait for you to come back.
I surely am going to read the next one soon. š
That was a close call! Compelling writing.
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.
Hmm interesting thought of line
I hope you enjoyed the story, come back soon.
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! š That is part of the reason I enjoy your stories, because you never have typos š God bless
Amazing, well written.
Iām very happy to know that you enjoyed my story. I’ll have another one next week if youād like to come back.
Oh sure, why not?
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?
Thank you, nice to know that you enjoyed my story. The illustrations were found online and then tweaked to fit my blogās style. If you want to see more I recommend you to return for more stories.
Gripping. Enjoyed the adrenaline rush of danger and suspense in this short read
In that case my work served its purpose. I hope you can enjoy more of my stories.
beautiful work I admire am sorry cannot speak spanish
Thank you, Iām very glad that you are enjoying my work. Don’t worry about Spanish, I’ll have English translations, just come back for more stories.
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 š
Actually my characters have very well established pasts and relationships with each other. But, to be friendly with all my readers, Iāve dedicated myself to short stories. Iāll try to create something more extensive for special readers, like you. In the meantime I hope to see you back for more.
I like starting a story right in the middle of an action scene. Who needs foreplay? Definitely a good read!
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.
Great piece!
I really appreciate it, thanks. I hope to see you back soon.
Thanks for looking at my blog and liking my posts
It’s always good to find other blogs to inspire me.
I tried to read but it’s a little though. Do you know anyone who would be willing to help edit your work?
I really wish I had someone, although your suggestion has been noted. Thanks for your help.
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… š
PS: Write to me if you want to exange more
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.
I will be a little bit more motivated to write more
stuff on the website, as I have at least 1 reader… š
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
So far so interesting, I didnāt complete it because i want to leave a comment before I go drink some water
I hope that was the best glass of water of your life.
I really enjoyed this blog post! Great job!!!
Thank you, I hope you can come for more short stories.
I tried contacting you, could you let me know how to? Or you do it? Its important, Thanks.
It will be a pleasure. Remember that my new story will be ready very soon.
no habla EspaƱola; 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.
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.
Great piece! Nice cliffhanger ššš¾
Thanks Lawrence, I hope the rest of my stories fulfill your expectations.
The piece was inspiring. It seized my attention and that was it: all the way, then, gee… the cliffhanger! š¤© In time Iāll read more of your pieces.
What A Bolg Brother, That Awesome ā„ļø
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.
I always support You Bhai ā¤
Great writing, as always. Which language do you write in first? (I canāt tell!)
Thank you, I really appreciate it. As far as the language, everything depends on the day and the mood.
Thank you. Love your story.
It’s a pleasure to share my stories. I hope you can enjoy more of them.
šš
Yes!
You should check out my other stories, Scottye.
A compelling, fast paced, short story with characters that make the reader curious and want more.
Exactly! Perfect description
Thanks.
Thanks Dom, I hope you enjoy the rest of my stories, too.
Si Sebastian, voy a leerlas.
Really enjoyed it. Keep up the Great work!!!
Thanks Jon, I’m glad to know that you’re reading my stories.
Nice work āØāØ
Butterfly, I really appreciate knowing that you are enjoying my work.
I just started to read your work
Butterfly, there is still a lot to come. Hope to see you back soon for my weekly stories.
š„š„š„š«
Ilsa, you seemed to enjoy my work. I post stories every Wednesday if you want to read more.
Another great read and looking forward to this week’s short story.
Nancy, I’m happy to know that you enjoyed it. This week’s story has links to all the chapters of the seriesā¦ it can also be enjoyed without knowing everything that happened. I hope you like it.
āThe plan is simple.ā
No plan is ever simple… š
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.
Descriptive writing and its best. Awesome!!!!!!!
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.
A very creative story!
Kesali, I’m glad to know you enjoyed it.
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?
Morgana, I hope you enjoyed it. Sorry to disappoint, but I find them online and tune them to match my blog style.
No problem with that. They are great illustrations and perfect for your purposes. Kudos on that!
so good.I hope to read this series of short stories.So great of you to share your written expression.in suspense.
Reensarai, I’m glad you liked it. Suspense is one of my favorite genres to write.
nicely written. and thanks for your comment on mine.
cheers
Peter, I’m happy that you arrived. You are welcome when you want.
I almost thought Jack would come crashing down with his pant! Found it an engaging read!
Glad to know you liked it. Enjoy the rest of my fiction blog.
I enjoy the fluidity of your story-telling. You have mastered the art of engaging your readers. Great job š
It’s a pleasure to share it with you. š
Thank you very much. Would really like to get your inputs on my creative efforts.
I felt thisš
Ayomide, I hope that all my stories awaken similar feelings.
Dear Sebastian, Very illuminating story.
I’m happy to do my part in the perfect universal machine.
Beautiful , captivating and so realistic. I love the way you captured my attention with the first few sentences. Beautiful
I hope to have you around for the launch of my novel.
Sure , just let me know when you are ready
Good luck
True
There is no fun in hiding.
I love this story, it’s fascinating. Are you an author? I’d love to read a book of yours.
I’m currently working on my first novel.
Cool. Iād love it if you announced it here when itās published.
Perfect, I love it!!!!
Thanks for sharing
It’s my pleasure.
Woah, that was intense.
Wow…so cool and enticing. The imagery is wonderfull. By any chance, is this the same Jack in the Crashing Wings story?
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!
It would be an honor.
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.
This was really good!!!!
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! š
You can’t beat a motorcycle ride! š