Old Playground

“Don’t think of exploring the swing; the school has closed the park for some unknown reason. The swing has always moved from then,” Jose whispered. Before Tim could respond, the bell rang, signaling it was time to go home.

As Tim walked to the gate skeptically, he heard faint giggles which eventually turned into raucous laughter from the park. Curious, he mustered courage and went near to see a boy on a swing.

“Who are you?” Tim asked, “Are you allowed here?” The boy nodded. “Yup! This swings fun.” The boy replied with a nod. “I’m Joe. Joe brown. Nice to meet you, Tim!” he replied. “How do you know my-” Just as Tim spoke in utter bewilderment, Miss. Reeta called out his name fiercely. He took one last look
and ran away.

Shock still lingering on his mind, he went to school, and saw that every single bench was occupied. Except where Joe sat. Nervously, Tim approached. “Nice to see you,” Joe said with a broad grin. A smile slowly spread on Tim’s face. That day was the best day he ever had, as he found a friend. They both got along quite well and soon became Inseparable, despite the bewildered stares from others.

One day, Tim’s teacher set up a meeting with his parents. “We are concerned about Tim, as he prefers to sit alone and talks to himself all the time,” said his teacher gravely. “No, Dad, I talk to Joe,” Tim replied. “Who?” the teacher asked, with a raised eyebrow. “Joe Brown…” Tim replied. Her jaw dropped, and a shiver ran down her spine.

The school bell rang, and Tim dashed to his dad, who was anxiously waiting to pick him up. “Dad, meet Joe…my friend!” Tim shouted happily. “Joe, this is my dad” Time said, as he looked at Joe. Joe gave a small, weak nod. His dad smiled feebly, looking beside Tim. They rode in silence and reached a place where Tim had never been before.

“Where are we?” Tim asked his father. “Have I ever been here before?” he skipped along his father. “Read what’s written,” his father said, after stopping and pointing to a tombstone. “Joe Brown…” Tim read as his voice faded. “Joe passed away last year in an accident… at school…” Dad said. Tim went numb, and felt nothingness spread into his body. Dead silence filled the air.

The next day at school, Tim sat on his bench with his head down. “What’s the
matter, Tim?” asked Joe. Tim chose not to reply. “You’re-…?” “I was always
lonely…just wanted a friend! After so long, I found you…” said Joe with a tear in his eye. “I will always be your true friend…believe me…no matter where you are,” said Tim.

Joe smiled, a faint watery smile. “Bye” he whispered. Tim watched Joe’s outline fade, until he wasn’t there anymore. Tim took out his book, while stifling a sob.