The Treasure Hunt

The Treasure Hunt


The mournful sounds of Macarthur Park drifted from the radio as Bill turned up Holland Drive, his wipers sloughing rain from his windshield.

"What a depressing song," he said to SugarPoo. The toy poodle barked, as if agreeing.

"I wasn't asking your opinion," he scolded.

Bill didn't like animals and SugarPoo in particular. He had "volunteered" to watch the dog for his girlfriend, Bambi. I can't believe that's her real name, he mused. Still, there was more to her than a name. He felt his grin spread thinking of her more positive aspects.

Pulling into his driveway, he grabbed the dog and a package from the seat, and headed into the house.

"Happy Birthday to you," he sang as he set about preparing a surprise birthday for Bambi. He set the table complete with a small cake.

Opening the package, he pulled out a box and opened it, exposing a gleaming silver heart-shaped locket inscribed with both their names. "She's going to love this!"

SugarPoo, not to be ignored, began bouncing up and down.

"Curious? Well, this is for your Mommie and, if all goes well, is the first step in getting rid of you," he said, bending over to show the dog.

The poodle sniffed, then grabbed the box and disappeared under the kitchen table.

"Hey! Give that back!" shouted Bill, giving chase. He grabbed the box but it was too late. The last inch of the locket chain was disappearing into SugarPoo.

He grabbed the dog and threw it out into the backyard just as the front door opened and Bambi came in.

"Oh Bill, you remembered," she crooned.

"Of course I did! And, I have a special gift for you." He handed her a pair of rubber gloves and an umbrella. Seeing the confused look on her face, he pointed to the backyard.

"Think of it as a treasure hunt."


Notes:
An entry for the 12/21/11 round of "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge"  [13+]
Prompt: Write a story that includes the words: "locket, cake, umbrella."

Word Limit: 300
Word Count: 300

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please, as long as you're here, leave a comment. Criticisms, thoughts, reactions, yes – even words of encouragement or praise – are all equally welcome

Ken