Waiting for Genies

The night sky spread wide overhead with its white speckles shining through the dark navy infinity of space, buffeted by atmosphere and air. As Harold’s eyes slid down to the horizon, the white starlight dulled as the navy turned purple, only to disappear completely behind the black smoke that extended into the air as though from a magic lamp releasing its genie. Harold could see the warm red glow of fire hugging the horizon. “It sure is pretty tonight.”

Debbie stepped out rubbing her hands on the soot-covered smock she wore when it was time to make supper. “It sure is, now come in and have some food while there’s still time.” They’d been told they were safe, that the fire would pass by without any problems. They’d been told that there was a strong breeze and it would be taken right out to the ocean where it would die, if not by the expanse of sandy beaches, then by the very water itself. Nothing had stopped them from moving right then and there, but nothing had really given them the inclination to leave either. Most people did move, afraid of the fire’s potential. They took what they could and left what they couldn’t. Half filled houses of cheap furniture and forgotten memories lined the streets as though to remind the ones who remained of the decision they’d made.

When the winds changed, and it became clear the sands of the ocean’s beaches wouldn’t be the end of the fire’s blaze, there were only a handful of people left in the city. By then it was simply too late. By then there was nowhere to go and no way to leave. “Think they gonna send us help before the blaze hits?” Debbie shook her head as she placed a slab of pork on Harold’s plate, taken from the Butcher’s shop for no other reason than it was the most expensive thing there. She nodded when he asked if she thought they were going to come look for survivors and pick up the pieces. “I’m sure you’re right. You usually are.” Debbie nodded again to herself as she moved the cut up pork around her new china plate before standing up and walking outside, leaving it uneaten.

Harold followed shortly and wrapped his arms around her shoulders. “You’re thinkin’ ‘coulda’ thoughts again. What’d we talk about when it comes to them ‘coulda’ thoughts?” Debbie sighed and leaned into Harold as though he would engulf her completely and protect her just as well. “I aint’ thinking ‘coulda’ thoughts no more, and I ain’t never gonna again Harold. I promise,” She whispered to him as they watched the approaching glow disappear behind thick smoke. Harold patted Debbie’s elbow. “That’s my girl.” The night wore on and the fire continued. The cool air warmed and burned. They stood and watched, silently waiting.