Blink Short Stories by Beth Romp

Don't Dog the Boys

I crashed the car. Head on. Straight into the tree without even blinking. I had been out with the boys, but I can hold my beer. I didn't need someone to drive me home. The boys would've laughed if I'd even suggested it. I can hear them now. Can't handle a couple drinks, Denny? Need the missus to pick you up? I was the one who suggested going out. Didn't want them to think that I was whipped now that I was married. No slowing down. Can't dog the boys.

God, why is my back aching? And why does it feel like I'm drooling? I raise my hand to touch my face. Is my hand shaking? Is that blood? I swear my brain is moving in slow motion, but it wasn't the alcohol. Shock. Yes, it was just shock. That's right; I crashed the car. Why can't I move my legs?

I look down, my eyes struggling to focus. I can see my legs, but I can't move them. Shit, I didn't mow the lawn this morning. Sarah's gonna kill me. She had asked three times last week. Did my toe just move?

Where's my phone? I had been texting Sarah when it happened. Just letting her know I was on my way home. No harm. Just a quick text. Did I send it? Does she think I am just late again? Shit. She told me not to go out tonight. What was I looking for? My phone.

Where the heck is that light coming from? Why is it so dang bright? My skull feels like it's going to crack. Are you okay in there? Where did that voice come from? Did I say that? I try to reach for the other seat. Maybe my phone was there.

It is the police. Please stay still, we will get you out soon. The police? Why? Oh. I crashed the car. Wait – the police. I don't have enough points for that. They got me last week. Where is my phone? I'm so tired.

God. How do I stop the pain in my head? Why won't it stop? Shit. Why is it so dark? Where did that light go? I feel cold and wet. What is the smell? Copper?