A.V. Carden is the readers’ choice in this week’s Indies Unlimited Flash Fiction Challenge.
The winning entry is recognized with a special feature here today and a place in our collection of winners which will be published as an e-book at year end.
Without further ado, here’s the winning story:
Freedom Jump
by A.V. Carden
Ramone stood at the edge of the cliff face peering over at the turbulent surf below. A gusty wind stung his face and even rocked him slightly as he positioned himself ready for flight.
He wasn’t afraid, whatever happened from this point didn’t really matter, dead or alive either way he would be free.
Two long hellish years it had taken him and in that time he’d endured more than any man should. Beatings, abuse, corruption and indignities he didn’t deserve as an innocent man. Ramone had planned and persevered, he had almost traded his soul for the chance to work in the sewing room, but it was worth it.
He had fashioned the garment from a tight-fitting boiler suit and stitched in the inserts which he had made from mail bags for double strength. Time well spent in the prison library reading up on wing-suits had convinced him this would work. Digging the tunnel had been the hardest and he’d almost given up.
Ramone looked skyward and whispered a short prayer then sprung up and over the edge spreading his arms and legs wide as he dove. He knew for every metre he dropped he gained 2.5 meters forward.
The crashing waves loomed nearer but just over half-way down a strong current caught him and lifted him higher.
He soared 100ft above the sea and zoomed ever onward at speed. It worked! He screamed with pure joy as the howling – wind propelled him towards freedom and another life.
Nice job A.V. – very creative. Congratulations. There were some interesting entries this week.
Thank you so much Dick! I feel very lucky to have won out of so many great entries, this is actually a dream come true for me and an achievement on many personal levels, Thanks again! 🙂
Congratulations, Audrey! Couldn’t be happier to read about your story being recognized this week!!!
Thank you Jo-Anne! I am ridiculously happy! 🙂
Congrats, A.V.! Nice entry. 🙂
Thank you Lynne I really appreciate that! 😀