How Heaven Saved Us
Words 194
“What’s the report from residents on the Earth prototype?”
“Excellent. They think it’s heavenly. I deeply regret the self-destruct program.”
“How long is our Heaven going to last?”
“Heaven is self-sustaining for a hundred years.”
“Good, but why so many Heavens? Weren’t you supposed to build just one?”
“I wanted to provide shelter to as many citizens as possible.”
“Focus on one. Don’t waste money…”
“Money! The Earth is going to blow up once the comet crashes into it.”
“You don’t understand. This is our chance to begin again, choose our fellow companions. Get rid of the riff-raff.”
“But…”
“Even we are allowed only one other person.”
“Choose one person!”
“Sacrifices have to be made in the interests of the future.”
“Meaning?”
“My wife is old. Young blood is needed to create a new generation.”
“Your son or your daughter?”
“The model Tatiana.”
“Not your beloved daughter?”
“She’s married. She is her husband’s responsibility.”
“And your son?”
“He is Captain of Heaven.”
“But…but am I not the Captain?”
“You have done a great job. You have labored long and hard. You deserve a rest. A nice long rest.”
We’ll see who gets to rest.
***
Written for Sunday Photo Fiction – a story in 200 words or less. Thanks to Alistair Forbes for hosting the challenge and Sascha for the photo prompt. To read the other stories inspired by this photo, click here.
Thank you for reading – look forward to your comments and suggestions. I am traveling this weekend and hence may not be around to visit as much as usual. Hope you all have a super weekend.
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