Tommy Turtle

Point of View Contest Entry


Tommy Turtle crept out of the tall grass and felt the radiated heat.  Before him a hot black ribbon stretched as far as he could see in either direction.  The luscious smell of ripe tomatoes wafted on a slight breeze blowing directly toward him.  He had to keep going, straight ahead.

Cautiously, he stepped up onto the warm, smooth surface. He had only gone a couple of steps when his attention was drawn from the magnetic aroma by a swish, swish sound.  Turning his head in the direction of the noise, he saw a bicycle coming directly at him.  He drew in his head just as the tire whizzed past, clipping his shell and pushing him a little off course.

After sitting motionless for a moment, he peeked out of his shell.  Since nothing was in sight, he extended his head and legs, corrected his direction and proceeded on his way.

He traveled a few more feet when another noise drew his attention.  Looking up he saw a car speeding toward him. He hunkered down and withdrew his head into his shell just as, with squalling tires, the vehicle swerved.  He felt the suffocating heat of the exhaust system as it passed over his head.  For several minutes he squatted, trembling, before working up enough courage to continue following the enticing aroma.

The tall grass of the roadside waved an invitation only a couple of feet ahead when the road began to vibrate under his feet.  A rumbling roar filled the air and Tommy felt panic building inside when he saw the massive truck barreling down on him. 

Giving a mighty push of his strong legs, he drew inside his shell.  Catapulting over the edge of the pavement, he rolled down the embankment.

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