Peace

“It’s perfect. This time tomorrow, we’ll be on top of the world,” the first female voice said from the grass in the river beside me.

“I don’t know,” another female voice said. “All it takes is one person to realize what we’ve done, and the whole thing could come apart.”

I straightened my back, rooting my bottom on the cool rock I was sitting on. The river flowed around it in quiet ease.

“You’re paranoid. Everything is set. We’ll overthrow that witch and we’ll be the ones in control.”

“Are you sure?” the second voice whined. “People might be saying what we want to hear.”

I straightened my back, absorbing the breeze blowing over the river.

“They wouldn’t dare. They know what’s best, which is me in control.” A pause. “Us in control. You’re nervous. Relax.”

“I’m trying, but I can’t help it. What if we’re wrong?”

“Nonsense. I’ve taken care of everything.”

The warm sunlight filled me with energy, and inspiration. “I have a message for you.”

The girls turned and looked at me. The taller one scoffed. “I didn’t see you.”

“What message?” the shorter girl asked.

I opened my eyes. “Trust no one.”

They stared at each other. Finally, the tall one stood. “This is nonsense. I’m leaving.”

The shorter girl stood slowly, staring at me. I nodded and closed my eyes. Soon, their footsteps faded and their voices rose again, becoming more distant until they faded away.

I took a deep inhale, resuming my interrupted midday meditation.

Finally, peace.

Word Count: 253