The car sat under the fluorescent lights of the hospital car park, a thick layer of dust covering the windshield, roof, and bonnet. Even more pronounced due to the glare.
All four tyres had deflated, the air having escaped years earlier.
Small children, teenagers, and even bored adults had drawn pictures in the dust or written their names. Hannah, John, and Alex - who apparently loved Ryan "4EVA"- were all present in grime and oil and metal.
A large notice was present on the side of the car, warning that it would soon be removed. But that too was showing signs of ageing.
On the far side of the dashboard sat a yellowing ticket, Sunday 12th April 2020, 18:00, written in small black writing.
The car had not been parked with skill. One tyre was stuck outside of the carefully painted lines, a monument to the driver's haste or lack of competence.
Though the car had sat idly for six years, rust had not become a visible issue. But its future presence was inescapable.
Who had left this car?
What emergency had they been responding to?
Why had they never come back to reclaim their faithful motor? Who sat patiently, waiting for them to return.
Another fleck of dust settled silently onto the car.
About the Creator
Matthew Smith
I have been a freelance writer in the fitness & nutrition niche since 2016. All of my articles have been technical in nature, with large reference lists and lots of science. I'd like to use Vocal to express my creative side, and have fun!
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