Oh, Bother

• Samithri Kaluarachchi, Grade 4
• Short Story
• 2015

I ran as fast as my legs could take me. The shops would close in 5 minutes and I won’t have a present for my friend’s birthday, tomorrow. Finally, the shops came into view. I checked my watch, 2 minutes left. Maybe if I made it there they would give me a little bit of time to do my shopping. When I was in front of the shop, the lights were still on. I ran to the door. I reached for the handle just when it was pushed away by the door opening. A man with a bunch of keys in his hands came out. “Sorry, we are closing now” said the man. “Can I please have at least a few seconds of shopping, it’s urgent!” I asked. “Sorry, but there is nothing I can do for you” said the man. I frowned and walked away. Maybe I can make something for my friend’s birthday. But it would have to be special. So I ran all the way back home, because I would need some time to make something. Once I was home I was puffing so hard I needed to take my asthma inhaler. I had never run so fast in my whole life. When I was in my room I nearly screamed in disappointment when I saw that I was short on art supplies. I remembered that was the other reason I was going to the shops. I looked through all my stuff to see if I had anything I could give my friend but I didn't have anything I wanted to give away. Just then I had the perfect idea. I could just give my friend some birthday money. I asked my mum for some money but she said I had to use my own money. I looked at my purse I had $20.5. I could give my friend $10. Suddenly a thought hit me like a sledge hammer. I remembered I had no card. I couldn't just give my friend some money! I decided I would have to give my friend a late birthday present. While I was walking to my friend’s house I had the worst feeling in my heart. I thought how I would feel if someone came to my party without a present. It’s the most important part! I finally came to my destination. I nervously knocked on the door. When it opened I quickly opened my mouth to explain why I don’t have a present, but my friend interrupted. “Oh, hey!” she shouted. “What are you doing here?” she said. “Um, I’m here for your party” I said confused. “My party’s tomorrow!” she shouted laughing. I stood there gaping. So I went through all that for no reason! “Um, is there a problem?” she asked. I shook my head and walked away. “Oh, bother” I whispered to myself.