The Beginning

Short fiction with a challenge

“Hey, sis, check out my new wheels!” Mike beamed with pride as he waved me over to his shiny blue Chevy Malibu. Mel couldn’t help but notice the rust spots on its hood, scattered like freckles on sun-kissed skin. She ran her fingers over the worn-out paint, feeling the history etched into its metal frame.

“Nice choice, bro. It’s got character.” She couldn't hide her admiration.

Mike’s eyes twinkled with excitement.

“Yeah, it’s got a story to tell, that’s for sure. But you know the best part? The engine. Listen.”

Mike started the car and its engine purred contentedly like a cat. It reminded Mel of summer afternoons with her dad when she heard the sound.

Mike revved the engine, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

“Hear that power? It’s like a wild beast, ready to take on the world. This car is freedom, Mel!”

Mel watched as he hopped into the driver’s seat, his hand raking through his wavy hair. His eyes sparkled with a mix of determination and adventure as he buckled up.

“Come on, let’s go! Let’s see what it’s got!” he said, as he gestured for her to join him. Mel gave in to the temptation to escape reality for a bit upon seeing her brother's smiling face.

They chased the sunset, racing against time. The orange hues bled into the sky, painting a masterpiece of warmth and serenity. It was as if the world urged them to forget their worries.

“Hey, slow down!” Mel had to yell over the roar of the wind.

But Mike just laughed, his eyes ashine with mischief.

“Come on, sis! Live a little!”

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The Beginning | Escape | The Final Frontier | Cabin in the Woods

⭐Submission Guidelines

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Author’s Note

This is the beginning of a short story I wrote. I couldn’t decide on where it should go, so I wrote three endings, trying to decide which one fit best. This flash fiction piece is the beginning of the Blue Chevy Malibu Writing Challenge. See Submission Guidelines for the challenge.

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