Obsession

• Natasha Halberg, Grade 6
• Short Story
• 2015

It’s a sculptured work of art. I stare at it. It stares back. Not wanting to be tempted, I look away. It doesn’t matter. I hear its voice regardless. I turn and snatch the closest cupcake, squashing it into my mouth. As I chew it slowly, a wave of relief washes over me. Delight is a sweet, sweet flavour.
Sugary sprinkles, whipped butter icing mixed with smooth chocolate chips tingle my taste buds. It is a dance of warm vanilla goodness with the occasional crunch of fondant leaves and flowers. It all feels like my mother’s embrace.
I swallow the last mouthful of cupcake, feeling it trickle down my throat like a silk waterfall. My body shivers with the sensation. A warm glow in my stomach gives a sense of affection, appreciation, love.
Now more than ever, I long for another. Forbidden dessert surround me. I look around the bakery. How will each one taste? I will never know if I don’t try. I mustn’t. But it’s a sculptured work of art. I stare. Oh no. Let’s do this again.