The Gun

Mark snuck quietly into the study. Sy wanted him to get dad’s shotgun. They’d have it back shortly. He made sure Alise, his tattle-tale sister, didn’t tell.

Just as planned, Sy met him in the field behind the woods. “Are you sure you weren’t followed?”

“I don’t think so. I’d of heard Alise, and Mom’s on the phone. Besides, she thinks I’m playing ball.” Mark whispered, although he was too far away from the house for anyone to hear him.

“Let’s get this thing done!” Sy put the car in gear and the sped off down the dirt road. Mark wished he was old enough to drive. Sy was his idol, even if he didn’t show it. They sped into town to finish out their plan. It would be perfect!

Sy pulled the car back into the driveway after they completed their “mission,” as they called it.

“Why’s the garage door closed?” Mark knew his Dad was the only one that closed that. His blood ran cold. They’d be found out, for sure. The left the gun in the trunk and walked in the house.

“Well, hello, Boys!” Their father looked over his newspaper. “Anyone care to explain themselves.”

Neither one could offer an explanation.

“Sy, where’s my shotgun?! Mark? Your mother saw you leave with it.” His face turned red.

“In the car,” Sy mumbled as Mark ran out for the gun.

“How many times do I…” Their father stopped, seeing the gun. “Boys, this is beautiful!” He grasped the gun.

“It was gonna be a surprise, Dad. We had your and Rex’s names engraved on the barrel and a lab wood-burned into the stock. It was your birthday present for hunting season.”

He hugged them both and admired his gun. “You shouldn’t have.”

Word Count: 296