Expired

Lucie hears the police officer’s voice so clearly in her memory. We’re sorry, your husband has been hit by a drunk driver and he’s unresponsive. Come to the hospital immediately.

She’s helpless, afraid, when she sees John still, and bleeding from his head.

Lucie stares out the window watching the birds fly, chirping in unison. The clouds give way to abundant sunshine and she waits for the doctor, impatiently biting her nails.

The doctor’s words are imprinted in her mind. Internal injuries. Needs surgery immediately.

“Mrs. Giovani, I’m very sorry. Your husband expired on the operating table.”

The sky darkens.

From Guest Contributor Lisa M. Scuderi-Burkimsher