The prompt for Day 5 of Writing 101 have us write about an encounter when we stumble upon a letter. Please note that this is completely fiction.

I was strolling Washington Square when I came across an envelope on the ground. It was a fairly small envelope, the kind that’s use to hold greeting cards. I picked it up, flipped it over and noticed there was no address.

I wonder who was so careless to drop this in the middle of the park. I wanted to return this to its rightful owner but how? My eyes slid to the opening of the envelope. Maybe whatever’s inside could give me a clue. I hate reading people’s letters but do I have a choice here?

Dear James,

It’s been two weeks since the hospital discharged me and since then, I haven’t slept. I cannot do it. Every time I shut my eyes, I can feel like it happening all over again. I can feel the pain in my chest and the loud bang echoing in my ears. I can’t do it anymore. I can’t live this way.

Goodbye,

Jennifer

My hand was over my mouth, gasping. Oh no, this is terrible.

“Sir?” I ran up to a pair of cops patrolling the park. “Excuse me?” The cops stopped talking to each other and turned to me. Breathlessly, I handed them the letter. “I think she’s going to kill herself.” I told them. They took the note and read it.

They seemed skeptical. “How did you come across this note?”

I pointed at the spot I was running from. “It was on the ground over there.”

The cop folded the note and stuffed it back into the envelope.”Thank you for informing us, ma’am. We’ll take care of it from here.” Both of them tipped their hats and walked away.

Wait, what just happened? Aren’t they supposed to go the other way? To the car parked by the curb? There’s a life that needs saving right now. “Officers, I think you’re going the wrong way!” I yelled but they kept walking. They must either think the letter’s mine or I’m crying wolf. Err, I’m so pissed and puzzled right now. What do I do?

Thanks for reading this quick flash and have a great day! 🙂