The End of the World (a work of fiction)

Will the end of the world be coming soon?

No, I would know

How would you know? Do you have special powers?

I do not need special powers. I KNOW.

Okay, if you say so. Something about the way she said "I KNOW" stopped me from probing further.

Do you want to get some ice-cream?

Not now, we have to be on the lookout

[for what exactly?] Not said aloud. She looked worried.

They're coming to get me, but it's not my time yet. Something is not right

What's coming to get you?

You cannot see them. 

[after a brief pause] If I start wheezing or looking like I cannot breathe, sprinkle this around me and run away as fast as you can. I will meet you at school in a week's time [hands me a small pouch filled with powder] Run and do not look back

When she did wheeze (choked, more like it), I sprinkled the powder and ran as fast as I can. I did not look back until I reached the doorstep of my house. Some powder was smudged on my hand, while some specks remained in the pouch. I kept the pouch in my drawer and walked quietly upstairs. Mom was in the kitchen preparing dinner and did not hear me come in. 

Day upon day passed and I wondered if she would really be back in school next week. Her sister called in and the teacher announced that Lily was not feeling well. I would only know next week, as Lily's family does not own a phone. They're one of those families who does not take to technology that kindly. It consumes your soul she had said, probably echoing what her parents would have said.. but that's Lily to you. Always very intense, even at 10 years of age. 

One week later, Lily did turn up at school. Nothing seemed to have changed. She was her usual self, but I could tell that something happened that night. 

Lil, you okay?

Yes, absolutely

Sorry I took off

You did what was asked of you. Thank you Sara

What happened?

I will tell you one day, I have bought myself another couple of days. Do you still have that pouch?