A Mistake

1

Over the weekend, as usual, I begrudgingly made my way to my secluded spot by the river. This spot was a family secret, hidden from the rest of the village. It was a bit of a trek, but I guess that's what kept it special... and somewhat safe, at least in my eyes. Despite occasional dangers, I prided myself on my survival skills.

Balancing a large basket woven from straw on my head, I cautiously navigated through the dense forest, a journey that typically took me about 20 minutes. The rays of the early morning sun filtered through the canopy above, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow on the forest floor. The air was thick with the earthy scent of moss, damp soil, and the invigorating fragrance of wildflowers in bloom, a sharp contrast to the usual village smells of smoke and livestock

The towering trees stood like silent sentinels, their leaves rustling softly in the gentle breeze. Birdsong filled the air, a harmonious symphony that seemed to echo through the ancient woods. As much as I appreciated the beauty of my surroundings, today, the beauty only slightly managed to lift my spirits.

I felt like an anomaly in my village, not entirely out of place but certainly different. I was the odd one out, not one to stir up trouble intentionally, but I detested following orders, even if they came from my own parents. Farming bored me, cooking bored me, and even though I enjoyed reading, it too often felt monotonous.

The village, with its predictable routines and unchanging days, felt stifling.

With a heavy sigh, I yearned for something more. My dreams took me beyond the countryside, to the bustling city where life was vibrant, and opportunities seemed endless. I knew it wouldn't be easy as a low-class human, but it had to be better than being relegated to a status lower than low class.

One day, I envisioned myself in a different sphere, where I could possess something to shield me, granting me more rights and chances for growth—a world akin to what a middle-class vampire might have. I understood the hierarchy in both human and vampire societies, where vampires held more power with each rank, but I dared to dream of a reality where humans could aspire to rise above their predetermined stations, perhaps even reaching a level akin to that of a vampire. She just wished we all could be equal.

I slightly shook my head. The only thing I could do is dream more and more until my head explodes of nonexistent dreams that won't ever come true.

She strongly disliked vampires. If she could be prejudiced, it would especially be against arrogant vampires who consider humans to be worthless.

Exhausted from what seemed like an arduous journey, I finally made it to the riverbank. Without a word, I dropped the basket, plopped down on the ground beside the rocks, and glared at the river. Its sparkling blue waters, like always, seemed to mock my frustration.

Fuming silently, you rolled up your sleeves, grabbed the soap, roller, and clothes, and began the tedious task of washing. As you rinsed, soaped, and rolled the clothes, your irritation grew. You knew this chore would drag on for what seemed like an eternity - maybe a whole hour. Despite wanting to refuse and flee, you begrudgingly stayed, determined to play the role of the obedient child to your mother after yesterday's explosive argument with your father, which ended in a storm of shouts and slammed doors.

Reflecting on the absurdity of the argument, you cursed under your breath. "Ouch!" You yelped suddenly, halting the scrubbing motion as the realization of scraped knuckles hit you. With a grunt, you reached for the water to relieve the stinging pain, berating yourself for your clumsiness.

Frustration bubbled within you as you lamented the minor injury, cursing your luck. Wishing for the convenience of a washing machine, you grumbled about the outdated methods that happened to stay in the village, questioning why you were stuck in this predicament. Just as you were about to vent further, a sharp *crunch* noise shattered the tense silence, jolting you out of your thoughts.