Adam’s Plan

…..a short story about regrets….

The clear cut glass felt heavy in his hand, and smooth to the touch. No one knew he was here, no one even suspected. How could he keep his presence a secret? Would anyone find him before he could follow through with his plans?

Taking the last swallow, he tossed the crystal into the old fireplace. With a short, bitter laugh, he remembered an old black and white movie where the actors had thrown their goblets into a fireplace. He had always wanted to do that. Doing it now felt right, like a sense of completion. Now he could start fresh, and go where no one knew his mistakes, his history. And wasn’t that what this decision had been about?

Ever since the accident two months ago, his life had been a nightmare. He hadn’t meant for any of it to happen. Not the wild ride through the tunnel, not the dare at the bridge. And certainly not the scene in front of Felicia’s house. That was in the past now. He was so tired of feeling guilty, feeling regret and blame. He’d had far too much of that. What was next? Right. Check the list:

1. Buy the ticket under an assumed name.

2. Hide money each week so it wouldn’t be missed.

3. Leave the note.

He let out a deep, soul-cleansing sigh. Next stop, Flagstaff. He was almost there. By this time tomorrow, he’d be lost to everybody looking for him. He thought they’d be glad to see him gone. After he got on that bus tomorrow his life would never be the same. He had to turn his back on everything and everyone who had ever mattered. All because of one stupid night.

“Adam, are you in there?” He froze. Maybe if he didn’t move a muscle, he could remain hidden.

“Adam, we know you’re in there. It’s okay. You can come out. Felicia says she forgives you for throwing the keys off the bridge. She understands all of you were upset that night. Do you hear me? The other boys told us taking the car that night was their idea, not yours.” There was a pause. “For heaven’s sake, Adam, you’re just 13!”