By Sweta Srivastava Vikram

Sweta Srivastava Vikram is an author, poet, writer, blogger, marketing professional living in New York City. She has published a book of poetry, Pabulum (Lelo Media). Sweta’s pieces have appeared or is forthcoming in Mirage Books, Desijournal, Rangoli Magazine, Kala Kahani, EGO Magazine, India Currents, and Recovering The Self: A Journal of Hope and Healing.

EGO invites you to savor her flash fiction piece.

She said: Hey neighbor! How are you?

He said: I am fine. Thank you.

She said: You sure? Your face looks a little puffy. You haven’t been sleeping well?

He said: My new diet and lifestyle get the credit.

She said: Fine. I won’t offer you any food. How about a drink? Would you like to join me for some iced tea? And if you have a change of heart, I have some sandwiches too.

He said: I’d rather not. Maybe another time.

She said: But I rarely see you these days. Are you still angry at Kitty for throwing a fit the last time you were over?

He said: Not at all. How can I be furious at that cute ball of fur? It’s just that I have been busy. But forget about me. How is Kitty doing?

She said: She’s doing okay, I guess. Her vet has prescribed her some anti-depressants.

He said: I am sorry to hear about Kitty’s failing health. I hope my last visit didn’t exacerbate the problem.

She said: Silly. Like you have super powers or something! Don’t worry about Kitty. She’s a survivor. Tell me about yourself. You have been working late nights again?

He said: Yes.

She said: You need a break. C’mon, a chilled beverage won’t hurt. The sugar will give you that burst of energy you need.

He said: I can’t. I have to go.

She said: Where are you off to handsome?

He said: I have to meet a prospective client in an hour.

She said: That late? It’s almost 8:30p.m. How come you don’t meet people in the middle of the day?

He said: What can I say? My business starts with the offset of the night.

She said: You don’t miss daylight?

He said: Survival requires sacrifices.

She said: Okay philosopher, come over home for a few minutes. I’m not letting you leave without a few bites and sips.

He said: I am beginning to get a little thirsty. But are you sure you want me to come in?

She said: Why wouldn’t I be? Kitty is sleeping — in case you were wondering.

He said: I wanted to confirm before I entered. It’s part of the doctrine.

She said: What are you talking about?

He said: Didn’t you know? We vampires enter only when invited. Thanks ahead of time for the lovely meal!

Please visit the author's website at www.swetavikram.com