episode 9:November Hunger
468 Words
November came like a hungry beast.
The township changed overnight. Prices went up. Pressure doubled. Everyone wanted to make money before December. Streets were louder, nights darker, and danger closer than ever.
For Elija, November was not just another month—it was a test.
Mirabel’s calls increased.
“Christmas is close.”
“I don’t want to be embarrassed.”
“Please try harder.”
Each message pushed him closer to the edge.
One evening, Elija met Kenny again.
“You’ve been avoiding me,” Kenny said.
“I don’t want trouble,” Elija replied.
Kenny laughed. “Trouble wants you.”
He lowered his voice. “The Yahoo plus job is ready.”
Elija felt his heart pound. “I said no.”
Kenny leaned closer. “One job. One night. Enough money to change everything.”
Elija shook his head. “I don’t want blood on my hands.”
Kenny sighed. “Blood is already on the streets. Decide fast.”
He walked away, leaving Elija alone.
That night, Elija called his mother again.
“Mama,” he said softly, “what if love demands too much?”
His mother was quiet for a moment. “Then it is no longer love,” she replied.
Elija’s throat tightened.
“Come home,” she added gently. “We may be poor, but we are alive.”
Elija promised to think about it.
In the village, Mirabel prepared for December.
She bought clothes. Took pictures. Made plans.
Nora watched her carefully.
“You haven’t asked about Elija in weeks,” Nora said.
Mirabel frowned. “He’s a man. He can handle it.”
Nora shook her head. “Men are not iron.”
Mirabel turned away.
That night, the rich man called Mirabel.
“I’ll take care of you this Christmas,” he said.
She smiled. “I like that.”
Back in the township, Elija’s fear became real.
Police sirens wailed near his area. People ran. Someone was arrested. Another beaten.
Elija hid in his room, shaking.
“This life will kill me,” he whispered.
His phone buzzed.
A message from Mirabel.
“I need money for Christmas shopping.”
Elija stared at the screen for a long time.
Then, slowly, painfully, he replied:
“Okay.”
The next day, Elija met Kenny.
“I’ll do it,” Elija said quietly.
Kenny smiled. “Good choice.”
But as they walked away together, Elija felt something heavy leave his body—his peace.
That night, Elija sat alone, staring at the ceiling.
“If I survive this,” he whispered, “I’ll stop. I swear.”
Outside, the city buzzed with excitement.
Inside, a young man prepared to risk everything for love that no longer felt like love.
November had claimed him.
To be continued…
- Writer
