Flash Fiction

Water

Blood. There's blood everywhere. It covers my arms. I scrub and scrub, but I can't get it all off. It splatters all over my clothes. It will stain, I know.

Sweat. It runs down my back as l work. It is hot in here. Stuffy. Confined. Small, not cozy.

Tears. They stream down my face, and those of everyone around me. Fear, pain, sadness, anger, joy, relief. I don't know what I'm feeling, but it isn't one of those alone.

Saliva. There is none in my mouth.My mouth is dry from hours of hard work. I try to conjure some to wet my lips, but no success.

Bile. It rises in my throat as I take in the scent around me. I want to hurl, but I know I can't. My stomach is simply too empty. I swallow hard and continue on.

Disinfectant. I would be dead without it. It allows me to do what I do. It stings my nose and any cuts I have as it's used to clean. Clean everything. As clean as possible.

Water. Finally, sweet water. It quenches my thirst and calms my stomach. It cools me off and makes me clean. I stand, surveying the stall in front of me. Both calf and mom will survive. I watch the sun rise on the way back to my truck and realize how lucky I am. Being a vet isn't always so happy