Every TV news station was on the scene of the accident, lamenting the loss of promising young life. Aaralyn’s parents were flooded with sympathy calls. Local companies set up charities in Aaralyn’s name to promote everything from drug and alcohol control to stricter driving regulations.1
With the main street shut down, the city was paralyzed. Everyone and their dog rushed to crowd around the wreckage, crying and pushing at the yellow police tape. The cloudy sky seemed prematurely filled with stars as investigators blanketed the blocks of skid marks and shattered lampposts with the flashes of digital cameras to document the event.2
Halfway up the street, a carwash was shut down and its owners cited for leaking soapy water onto the road to freeze and cause a driving hazard. Lawyers from across the state flocked to the city, all vying for the poor parents’ attention, promising healthy cash returns if only they would sue the living daylights out of the carwash, its parent chain, the manufacturer of her car, and the school district and college system for causing so much stress in young people’s lives.3
And on the scene itself, fire fighters dove into the twisted metal and broken glass with pliers and saws, painstakingly extricating the crumpled girl from the ruin. The crowd balked and the cameras zoomed in as the body was removed from the car, staining the snow and pavement with blood. 4
To the crowd’s relief, the little blonde girl was declared alive, and, much to the press’s disappointment, was rushed off to the hospital. The late-night news declared it a miracle that she survived the accident. She had injuries. She had brain damage. But she was alive. 5
Every church in the city claimed responsibility.6
Author notes
The plot thickens!
FYI: I have nothing against lawyers, the press, churches, spectators, charities, or the like. It just so happens that the attention that the accident gets is important to the story.
What did you think? Please comment!
Comments
1 - 5 of 5
-
Everyone and their dog, huh?
That part made me smile... and in a piece so grim and heartbreaking; that was just what I needed. I'm not surprised at how well this is put together, just amazed that it has the promise and potential of something greater... Hey, Just like YOU! I hated to see it end, but I know you posted more of the story... so off I am to read. 
Erica -
You're going to make me cry... I really have no words at this point. Thank you, hun! Despite the windstorm, I'm feeling calm, cozy, and warm, now!
s
Kyla -
But hun, you are loved. Look around you. I promise it's not only me. Look at your author page. Look at those who comment faithfully on your "newest" pieces. Look inside yourself. You'd be surprised. It doesn't take an accident like Aaralyn's to make you realise how many truly love you. Smile, hun. The world needs more sunlight (and people like you).
Kate
-
Thank you, Missie Kate! You always make me feel so loved... I clicked on the pink hug icon... I am so flattered!!!!!!! Thanks, Kate! Awwwwww... Here are a few hugs for you as demanded...
Kyla -
"Every church in the city claimed responsibility."
Kyla, you always have me on the edge of my cushioned brown chair. I'm glad you've put up some more of the Aaralyn series. I'll sure be busy reading them later.
As always, m'dear, you've captured these archetypes and molded them into your own pawns in this chess game. Well done, you. Keep posting these, I want to know what happens!
Love ya, hun.
Kate
Adding your comment:
1 - 5 of 5
