No One Knows

• Amelia J, Grade 5, Lindfield Public School
• Short Story
• 2015

Excellence Award in the 'Read Write Repeat 2015' competition

As I watched from a distance, I could see clouds of smoke gathering on the horizon. I could no longer see the full moon, which was usually as bright as day on a summer night, and even though it was summer, there was not a single glint of a star, or of any natural light. The only source was of the candles flickering in people’s homes.

As I breathed in, smoke filled my lungs. I held my breath. No one could know I was there. No one can know where I am now. No one knows I exist.

That is just how I like it. If anyone knew, I would be in a cell. I wouldn’t be free. Freedom is my last hope. Without it, I am nothing.
I fight for freedom. I long for freedom. I would die for freedom.
As I stood there, in the middle of a field, I saw the owner leave the house I’d been watching for the past week. Finally he left. I had it for myself.

I crept up the wall, clawing at the bricks. I scrambled over the tiles on the roof and heaved myself onto the chimney. I stood on the chimney, watching the town’s lights and shadows. The wind whipped my hair back and forth, but I didn’t care. I felt wonderful. I stood there for so long, it felt like years. Finally I slowly lowered myself down into the chimney. All of the things I felt before were gone, replaced by the feeling of being scared. I hate being claustrophobic. I was covered in soot and I seemed to be all wet. Slowly I pushed myself down the chimney, until I was in the fireplace. I hit the floor and rolled out. Sitting on the table was an envelope.

_________________________

I lied. One person knew I existed. He lived in the house.
I ran to the table and ripped open the envelope.

_________________________

Feathe,
I left some food for you in the cupboard. Don’t go out. People are watching in town. I left to get some money from the bank and buy some fish and flour.
I trust you have been watching me. I will be back in three days time from when I left.
Do not be still in the house by then. I will be bringing back two friends, and I do not want them to know you have been here. They are government officials.
I have made a bed for you. Make the bed back up just in case when you leave.
From,
Ren

_________________________

I dropped the envelope and ran for the cupboard.