Timebomb

This story is short. But please. Enjoy.

"Make your choice, now! Which of them will die? You have ten seconds to choose." He sneers, the gun pointed at me. “Choose wisely.”

I turn, eyes wide to the three people tied in front of me.

"Ten!" He barks, making me jump.

I look in the worried eyes of my mother, lover, and best friend. I don't know who to choose.

"Nine!"

My mother, who has raised me my whole life, no matter how difficult I was? Who helped me through everything?

Our life together flashes before my eyes. She is a single mother, and she did her best to raise me. She helped me with school, always supporting me through everything, no matter what I choose to do. I remember holidays, birthdays, and celebrations we spent together, always happy. I can’t pick her.

"Eight!"

Should I pick my lover, who cares about me more than anything in the world? My lover, who would do anything for me?

I think of our first date, at a fancy restaurant they insisted on taking me to. Out first kiss, our first dance, and everything else we've done. 

I think of the future we planned together. Do I want to lose all of that? They've never done anything wrong, in fact, they are close to perfect. I don't deserve them at all. I can’t pick them.

"Seven!"

What about my best friend, who has stuck by my side through pretty much everything? Always willing to help me, no matter the risks?

Promises, and secrets flash through my mind. Promises to never leave each other, to stay together no matter what happens. Secrets we swore to never tell another soul, whispered in darkness. Plans to get revenge on someone who had hurt the other. Comforting each other when we’re upset, no matter the time of day.

 I can’t pick any of them.

"Six!"

I can't choose. I would never be able to live with the guilt that it was my fault they died from my choice. They're all too important to me. I can't do this.

"Five!"

Wait.

There aren't only three options. I could pick myself. I'm in here too. They'd all be safe. They could all go home.

"Four!"

But they might not be able to. He might still kill them all if I pick myself. There's no reason for him not to. 

"Three!"

But...there is a fifth choice too.

"Two!"

I spin around, and yank the gun from his hand, while I kick him hard in his knee. He stumbles back, and I push the gun to his temple.

"One." I whisper, before pulling the trigger.

So, I hope you liked it! It's a little dark, but this is what came to mind for this prompt. Please give suggestions on what to add to make it longer. Thank you!

Also, here's a challenge: Write a plot twist ending in the comments. Hope you liked the story! ✌

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