The Mystery of Thomas Calico

President Melendez strode up the stairs to the platform. He shook hands with several smiling Congressmen and turned to wave at the crowd. The excitement in the air energized the crowd as they stood and applauded. Several hoots and whistles scattered among them. At last, the roar subsided and the President stood behind the podium.

“Thank you. I am truly honored. For the past four years I have been your President. The accomplishments have been many. We have revamped the tax code, ended a war, changed the fundamental way we budget, and created a health care system more equitable to all. While I do not have much time here today to outline them all in detail, I must emphasize one point. I could not have done all of these things without your support.”

The crowd burst into a cheer and chanted “Four more years”.

“Since I do not have a lot of time. I will open this up to a few questions from the crowd.”

The crowd settled and an odd, lanky fellow sauntered down the aisle to the awaiting microphone. The President smiled at him. “Yes. What is your question?”

“My name is William Calico. I am the brother of Thomas Calico, a soldier in the war just ended.” He reached inside his jacket and pulled out several sheets of yellowed paper. He placed some horn-rimmed glasses on his nose. “Operation Slaughter. The military commands that all soldiers in the Delta quadrant be executed. The approximate number being thirty five. Due to the highly sensitive nature of the operation and the political outrage sure to ensue, this operation has the highest of top secret classification.”

The President’s face faded to pale. He stared at the man. Then, his eyes fell to the floor. “They made me do it!”


298 Words
Flash Story Must contain the line: They made me do it.