Page 26, Line 26 by Andrea Malcom

Inspired by line 26 on page 26 of Behind the Scenes at the Museum by Kate Atkinson

Election

The future is like a cupboard full of light and all you have to do is find the key that opens the door.

I will hear the bedroom door close and have no idea what to expect. I know what will happen. I’m scared of myself most of all.

Tears aren’t out of the question, but no-one wants to make things any harder. Earlier I glimpsed the box which will be returned for auditing.

He sits in his lazy-boy, chatting. Even with badly cracked lips, his thin face is relaxed, mood almost buoyant. The doctor leans forward - you can always change your mind, you know.

The quiet thrill of election day. The weather was fine; good for turnout, I probably thought. Being out of town, I cast a special vote which seemed fitting.

I took my time at the booth, indulging a sense of civic duty and democratic process. Two extra sheets with the much-publicised questions and two boxes. I placed my ticks - conscientious and considered; a sense of having a hand in the future.

I love you all. He is on his feet. Gentle, you don’t want to crush him to death - our youngest brother; true to form. He cracks a laugh, and a microsecond passes before we all join in.

Then I am watching the three of them; my twin, his wife, the doctor as they disappear into the dim hallway. I hear the bedroom door pulled to by a gentle hand.

I gather up the empty mugs, march them to the sink, wondering what to do next but the future is buffering. The light at the kitchen window hits too bright and I have to turn away.

Andrea Malcolm