An Important Decision

Author's Note: Today we had to write a short story with a serious conversation. Comments appreciated.

On a bright sunny day I walk down the derelict avenue. Passing the dark brooding buildings. Looking upon the bent and broken trees, someone's futile attempt to brighten the scene. Finally I arrived at my destination, a quiet building that looked at least a little brighter, and perhaps better cared for than the rest. My knock echoes through the silent lane, as if to mimic death's toll.

"Yes. Hello?" the face of an old man peaks 'round the door. His head bald and shining in the light. His face though is hagard, the face of a man burdened with his stress.

"Hello. May I come in?" I am still a bit cautious despite being sure of my decision.

We walk a bit through quiet halls, the sound of buzzing in the distance. The inside of this place is cleaner than the outside, but at the same time even more inconspicuous. Finally we reach the end of the hall and enter the room. I had been here once before, talking over my plan with the same man that stands before me now.

"Are you still sure about this?" his voice holds the memories of many times this question has be met with a no.

"Of course" on the long walk down the hall I have been only gaining in determination, now completely sure that this is what I wanted.

"It will be with you your whole life." he is testing my resolve. But I will not waver.

"I understand that."

"It could be painful."

"I'm okay with that."

"Once you get this you can't get rid of it."

"How many time must I tell you I'm sure?" though I still want this his questions are beginning to bore me.

"Very well." he seems satisfied with my response. Raising his voice he calls "Bring him in."

In walks the cutest little boy I have ever seen. He stands before me and looks up with hopeful eyes.  Then, though his voice seems strangled with the fear of disappointment, he speaks but one word.

"Mom?"