Short Story

Comments: In order to move the story forward and create tension I decided to have Ruth and Elsie part ways. Since the story is being told from Ruth's view point it is her feelings and observations the reader sees. Since this is just a first draft the goal is to get the story down then add the details and later.

Now for the continuations of the story.

That is just what I did. The thing I had learned when Elsie and I parted was that it did no good to fight against what was. The thing to do was be alert and act when the time arrived. Although Elsie had helped me throuth the fire in Chicago, those eight years ago, that had cost so many their lives and livelihoods, I realized at 19 it was time for me to grow up.

We traveled some distance from town and came upon a run down shack. My captor took me into the shack where I say Oscar, bound with blood around his lips.

"Oscar, what is going on? You beast why are you doing this?"

"Why did you bring her here?" Albert said.

"She was snooping around his place. I thought it would be best to find out what she knew."

"Well the damage is done now. Put her next to Oscar."

At that moment I would have given my chances as slim to none for getting out of this mess, but I felt slim was worth it. I made a dash for the door and had almost gotten to the horse when an arm grabbed me around the waist. I struggled and then felt the slam of a fist against my jaw and I lost track of everything.

Coming to I heard Elsie's voice berating Albert and everyone concerned. "You idiots, if you hurt her anymore I will kill all of you." I saw her face above mine and in a gentle voice Elsie said, "Ruth are you all right? I am so sorry this has happened to you."

Turning to the others she demanded, "I suppose you made sure no one followed or saw you."

"It all happened so quickly, but I didn't see anyone around," my former captor replied.

"Well, we will just have to let her go," Elsie said.

"I won't go without Oscar," I said.

"Don't be a fool, take this chance while you have it," replied Elsie.