Trace of Wolves by Amber Merlin (i like reading .txt) 📖

It was hot. Only -20 degrees. Usually in Grisburg it would be from -30 to -50. At night, it could go until -60. Kristi hated hot weathers. This already lasted for 1 week. It was not hot enough to grow plants, which was never possible here in Grisburg, but too hot for Grisburg's animals to go out. Kristi and her 20 years old daughter, Amber depended on meat. They ate it everyday and they sold it to the market, without revealing where they lived. This is because about 8 years ago the weather became incridebly cold because of climate change, and many people began dying of hypothermia. Soon enough, the government evacuated the citizens and sent policemen to investigate the city, for any remaining people. They checked everywhere, except the tiny little grocery store at the total end of the main road. There there were one family of three. Now there are only two. Kristi and her husband divorced after a fight about her childhood. At twelve, she had stolen $200 from her neighbor for economic reasons. At that time, most citizens of New Jordan were poor. That is also the reason Kristi's family moved here to Grisburg. If Kristi came back to New Jordan, she would be arrested now that she is older.

That Morning, Kristi was in her bed, looking at her indoor garden, that could only grow berries and tomatoes. She picked up a plate full of them and began eating. Amber was looking out at the window. She was dressed in a more formal way than usually, tought Kristi. The air was warm inside. Only outside could be fatal. 1 hour out there could kill you.

- Mom, began Amber. I am going to work abroad.

Kristi looked at her daughter.

- No way! She said. What if some way they realize you live in Grisburg and they come arrest me?? Plus you can forget and tell your real last name. Nester, rather then Smith, our falso last name.

- We do not have a choice. The last time it was as hot like this was in 1976. Remember? At that time Grisburg was still full of people. We got the food and drink from Mat, our neighbor. But now he has deserted. No more help. We can not survive like this.

Amber turned around. She looked determined and serious. That is why she is dressing formally, thought Kristi.

- We can always eat tomatoes and berries. Answered Kristi.

She did not want to show her incertitude. For her, it was hard to leave Amber alone. Since she had lost 2 children, she could not let go the last one. Her deceased boys were her loved ones. Joshua, the youngest - 6 years old - died in car crash, in 1962. The oldest, Sam - 11 years old - died of hypothermia, like tens of other people in 1989.

- Mom, I'm going.

Amber took her coat, went outside and in the jeep, and drove away.

Text: Amber Merlin
Images: Google Images
Editing: Wanderer
Publication Date: 05-06-2013

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