Microcosm Sound Prompt

Calling Anne

Beth rubbed the eczema on her wrist — it always flared up when she was upset

Beth and Anne — Nightcafe by author

The bedroom was quiet except for Beth turning the pages of her text book and the slight creaking from the old radiator.

“Did you hear that?” Anne tilted her head, eyes fixed on an invisible spot in the air.

Beth didn’t look up. “Hear what?”

“A melancholic voice. Far off. Calling my name.”

Beth sighed and turned a page. “No. Maybe it’s the TV downstairs. It’s not like your name is unusual.”

“Why does it keep happening? Each day it’s louder.” Anne was sitting cross-legged on her bed. “And closer. Like someone’s waiting. Calling me. Are you sure you can’t hear it?”

Beth’s voice softened. “No. I’m sorry. I wish I did.”

“But we’re twins. We’ve always done everything together. Felt the same things, heard the…” Anne paused. “Why would this be different?”

“Look. I know you don’t care about school nowadays, but I’ve got homework.” Beth glanced down at her book without seeing it.

A sudden knock on the door interrupted them both. Beth jumped up, relieved, and playfully joked, “Anne, did you hear that noise?”