Until Sunrise

“That’s why I can’t go through with what you want.”

“I will have to sell you out.”

“You don’t have to, I’ll be leaving soon.”

****

Flora had no choice- it was a direct order from her old self. Never fall in loveshe stood on the porch, key in her hand. When she came back for the burial, falling in love was not on the list. She inserted the key into the lock, but didn’t turn it. She surveyed the front porch, she stared at the flower pot dangling on top of her head. Then she lifted her gaze to the nearest neighbor and beyond. Hopefully, the neighbors were all asleep or dining in a local café. She didn’t want anyone spying on her.

She and her old time friend had pulled an all-nighter, first in a local bar until they were tossed out at three then on her way home with a bottle of vodka. They had passed the bottle back and forth, she wanted to rest. The door opened before she could turn the knob. It was Ricky.

“Great! Just what I needed.” She muttered.

“What are you doing up so late?” she was barely audible. She sank into the chair on the front porch as Ricky walked close to her after slamming the door. He was not happy.