Vortex

  "With the rise of criminal activity and instability, the New Government has introduced the Household Service Mandate. To ensure the safety and prosperity of our world, every household must contribute at least one member to the military. Those without proper employment will be given the opportunity to serve."

  The radio buzzes with static before the voice continues, a calm voice.

  "No one will be left behind. No one will be without purpose."

  I ain't stupid. I know what that really mean. Ain't about givin' people purpose. It's about takin’ control.

  We all gathered for dinner, but I barely taste the food on my pte. My hands rest on my p, fingers twitchin'. Across the room, Grandma Rose sit at the adult table, stressin’ over nothin’. Two guests sit with her.

  The fat man sink into his chair like it’s a part of him, his suit stretchin’ over his belly. He got a warm look, like he never had to fight for a damn thing in his life. Next to him, the tall woman sit rigid, barely movin’, like every gesture gotta be perfect. Hands folded in her p, chin lifted just so.

  I don’t care about them. Ain’t here for them.

  Grandma Rose speak, she scared. "I can't allow these children to be taken. Not for this."

  The fat man wave a hand, smilin’ like it’s all a misunderstanding. "Miss Rose, we understand your concern, truly. But I assure you none of the orphans will have to enlist."

  "Nobody will force anyone," the woman add, her voice smooth, rehearsed. “That is a promise."

  They talk like they doin’ us a favor.

  Like we supposed to be grateful.

  I push my chair back, the screech loud enough to get through their little conversation. "I don’t need y’all makin’ choices for me."

  The table falls silent.

  The fat man gnce at me, then away. The woman don’t even look at me. Like I ain't worth acknowledgin’. Like I ain't even here.

  Ain't nothin' new.

  I step closer. "You hear me? I ain’t sittin’ around waitin’ for y’all to decide my future. I’ll join."

  Still nothin’.

  My fists tighten, but I don’t say nothin’ else. Ain't no point.

  I gnce at Grandma Rose. She watch me with somethin’ in her eyes—worry, maybe, or somethin’ else. But she don’t stop me.

  I turn on my heel and walk away, heart hammerin’.

  They can talk all they want. They can act like I ain't there. But when the time come? I’ll make ‘em see me.

  I'll leave this pce.

  I'll join the military.

  I'll follow the steps of a true hero.