Safe

• Jasmine Elphick, Grade 5
• Short Story
• 2017

I was darting around the undergrowth soundlessly, hardly daring to breath. I knew that if I made a single noise I would be attacked. I was dripping with sweat. I felt my nose twitch as I see my home materialising in front of me. I squeeze my way through the gap between the rocks effortlessly. Panting slightly I dash through the tunnel that leads to my home. Eventually the tunnel ends, I carefully place the berries on the ground that I had picked earlier. Eagerly, I sit down and begin to eat. Chewing slowly I enjoy the bitter sensation overpowering my mouth. After I have my meal I begin to hop over to the pre-laid grass that I had placed down that morning. I lay down to rest, curling into a ball. My white fur comforting me.

Well rested, I peek outside to check my surroundings. Hesitating, I follow the same track I had taken before my rest to retrieve the berries. After a while I recognise my destination. Gradually I begin to stop. Stumbling over to the bush, I begin to pick the scrumptious treat. My ears prick up. I hear rustling behind me. My fur standing to attention. The blood is pulsing through my veins. My heart pounding with fear. Was I to go the same way as my family?