A Short Story: BLOOD RED SKY

Derek and Jane strolled down the beach shortly before midnight. It was a perfect evening; the warm breeze dancing straight off the waves filled their nostrils. Across the water they could hear the festivities at the Sydney Opera House – it was New Years Eve.

They had gotten married, seven years ago, hurriedly, just days before he was due to take up his post at the Chinese Embassy. With both there hectic schedules it was impossible to fit in a honeymoon. She looked at Derek and said, “The honeymoon was worth the wait, you know.” He turned toward her with a smile. He knew the sacrifices he had made, to make this vacation even remotely possible. He had planned this trip for months, and keeping the secret from his inquisitive wife, was no mean feat! The trip was nearly derailed, by a diplomatic crisis 3000 miles on the other side of the globe, had he not defused the sensitive situation; in the nick of time!

A flurry of fireworks in the background signaled the New Year. “Happy New Year Mr Duncan”, she said. “Happy New Year, my dear,” he responded –as he witnessed a blood red sky in her eyes.

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