Virtual Ink December 2013//January 2014 | Page 17

A L O N E BY CASEY STRUNKS Nothing. There was nothing. Everywhere she turned, no matter where her eyes fell, there was nothing. No things, no people, just emptiness. She was completely alone. “H-Hello?” she called hesitantly, her voice quavering. No answer, not even an echo. A deafening silence filled the air, seeming to swallow her whole. “Please, is anyone there?” she called again in desperation, rubbing her arms in an attempt to drive away the freezing cold. Wisps of mist curled from her lips with every breath. “Anybody? Hello?” Silence. The girl stood perfectly still, listening for any possible sound but hearing none. As time passed what little hope she had dwindled away and her eyes filled with tears. This was what she feared, her worst nightmare was coming to light. When she spoke her voice was soft and gentle, filled with despair. “No, please, I don’t want to be alone….” PHOTO BY D SHARON PRUITT 17