What Would You Say

Last Call challenge: Prompt - Write a story inspired by the phrase "last call."

"Last call" can mean different things depending on who's listening. It might be the end of a night, one final opportunity, or the moment someone realizes they're almost out of time.

Write a story inspired by the phrase "last call." You can interpret it however you like. Set it in a bar, an airport, a hospital, a small town, or somewhere entirely unexpected.

Focus on what happens when the clock is running out. Whether your characters seize the moment, hesitate, or let it slip away, let that sense of urgency drive the story.

Vocal media

My time has come to an end. I was told that I probably have one day left to live. The doctors came into my room and gave me the news a few hours ago. My daughter stood by me, while three young doctors told me that they could keep me alive for a short time. Probably, no more than a day.

They looked like they were all struggling with the news. I told them that I was okay, and that I was ready to leave this place. I then told them that my daughter would be the one to struggle with the idea of this.

They then asked me if I wanted something for the pain. I told them I didn't have any pain. They looked at each other suspiciously wondering why. I told them my daughter has given me Reiki, and I am very receptive to this treatment.

They left the room and my daughter cried and tried to stay strong for me. She said, "Mom is there anything you want me to do?" I told her to let family know that I have a day and would like to say some goodbyes to loved ones.

She started to make those calls when the nurse came into the room to make me more comfortable. After she had made the calls and asked her brother to make some calls, she was back to hold my hand. I asked her to hand me the notebook, and pen that I had in my overnight bag.

Isn't that appropriate I thought. An overnight bag. Just the right bag for my situation. I asked that she go to the grocery store and pick up some lunch items for family that would be travelling in from out of town. She agreed and left me with my writing.

Death Note is what I wrote on the cover of my notebook. When I opened the blank page, I had no idea where to start or who I would start with. Maybe just a general death note, and not to anyone in particular.

To those I love and who love me:

Really, truly, I am okay with going home to the spirit world. I miss all the ones who have gone before me. I have watched as relative after relative have passed, and friends of many years have gone home.

It is my time, as my children are doing great, my grandchildren, most are grown, and great grandchildren are well, and content in their lives. I have lived my life in a way that brings smiles to my face. No regrets. Well, a few here and there. But nothing major.

I know my sister, one of my children, and a couple of my grandchildren are out of state. I will try to reach them by phone and if not, please know that you were thought of and that I love you!

Just then my daughter came into the room with news that children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews were on their way. And behind her stood one of my cousins and his wife, a minister.

Before we could begin our visit the phone rang, and it was my sister, who prayed with me on the phone.

Family will keep me so busy, I won't have time to finish my death note, but that is okay, as I believe I have told every single one just how much I love them! This will be a good day!