literature

If Today Was Your Last Day

Deviation Actions

chaosheart13's avatar
By
Published:
66 Views

Literature Text

“You only have one more day until your execution. How will you spend it, I wonder?”

He’s lucky to be given free reign over where he goes and who he sees in the town. He wanted to spend it with the people he loved and then some. The others were holding a grand celebration over his coming execution, knowing he would no longer bother them with his tyranny. So he spent a quiet morning with his wife and his daughter, both of them keeping a stiff upper lip over his incoming death.

He also spent that time writing up his will, his daughter peeking over his shoulder as he wrote the things he wanted to give to. His daughter would have a good portion of his fortune, for he wanted her to live a comfortable life, his wife the estate. And, as an afterthought, he decided to give the town one last thought. He gave them a small bit of the fortune he stole from them during tax days and written words of personal apologies that would most likely be burned. What did he care? He knew he was going to die, but he at least wanted to let them know it might be a mistake and that a new governor might come, one far crueler than he ever was.

The evening was spent sending off letters and holding a grand feast for all to come to, though in the end it was just him, his family, and his servants. It was an equally somber meal, knowing it would probably be his last for the execution would take place early in the morning, without the prying eyes of people. That night, he tossed and turned to the crickets chirping outside and couldn’t sleep, for his thoughts wandered too much into dangerous territory. What would become of his family after he died? Would they be alright, he wondered, or would they be taken away? He didn’t know, but in the end he fell asleep late into the night.

He was prodded awake by a servant and made note of a special drink they prepared just for him by his bedside. He knew what it was, a poison, just for him. He wanted his death to be quiet and without agony, so a little sleeping draught would help him ease the last hours of his life. He slowly drank it, down to the last drop, and quietly slipped back into bed, sighing in his sheets. He passed away at around noon.

Short little drabble I decided to write. I feel I should appreciate life more, but I don't know how. Oh well. Hope you enjoy!
© 2015 - 2024 chaosheart13
Comments0
Join the community to add your comment. Already a deviant? Log In