Freedom - a short story by Berni Albrighton

 

I would love to be able to reach that tree.

It's trunk entices me to rest against it, to take up its offer of shelter from the intense sun and  the occasional storm.

I could hide behind it if danger approached, instead of shaking in fear, rooted to the spot.

Crouched, as low to the floor as I can get, trembling, my teeth chattering in fear.

My pathetic attempt to look invisible so that I won't be noticed.

I dream of running through the campo with

friends, my legs stretched out in joyous strides.

We could chase rabbits and partridge.

I have to believe that someone will release me from this chain, and break the feeling of dread

that I experience every day. 

The loneliness of captivity is numbing, but my body tells me to stay alert.

The threat of being beaten and manhandled is

very real.

If I really dare to, I momentarily lose myself in

the thought that I have my own family.

They call me by name.

They touch me with care and love. 

They know that I am scared, but they persevere.

I can't lose hope.

This existence can't last forever.