The Handmaid's Tale: A Short Story

Brendon could still remember his life before.

He had a wonderful wife, a beautiful home, and a fantastic job as a composer. He lived in a small town in England, and had lived there for his 28 years of mortal life. Then one day, he met a mysterious hooded person.

The hooded person offered him something he simply couldn’t refuse; the chance at immortality. To live forever, to be able to walk among people until the end of time itself. Of course, there would be a downside. He would be cursed to be alone.

He would continue to age as everyone around him would die. Brendon said that he would think about it; immortality seemed like a great idea, but he loved his wife. He wasn’t sure if he’d be able to leave her behind.

The coming weeks after he …show more content…

I want to take you to see the town.” Spencer said, smiling. Brendon looked hesitant, but nodded slightly.
“Okay, fine, but just for tonight, okay?” He said Spencer’s smile grew larger.
“Oh, fantastic! Come,” he said, locking arms with Brendon, “let’s go to my favorite spot in the city.”

—-

“Aren’t these flowers simply beautiful?” Spencer asked as they arrived. They were at a rooftop garden.
“Yes, they are.” Brendon agreed. He looked at the complex mechanics and pipes that went around and above them. “What’s all this?”
“Steam power, my friend. I built this myself. I add water to the pipes, pump in some steam, and the gears start turning. It causes the water to push through the pipes and onto the flowers. Watch.” Spencer explained. He showed Brendon how it worked.
“Incredible.” Brendon said in awe.
“I take it you don’t visit here often?” Spencer asked. Brendon just looked at the town below. “May I ask what your relation to Ms. Urie is? I’m just curious, are you close to the original family line?”
Brendon simply nodded his head. It was quiet for a few moments.
“Well, you certainly know how to hold a conversation.” Spencer chuckled, shaking his …show more content…

Fancy seeing you in a shop like this.” Brendon heard someone call from behind him. He turned his head slightly.
“Ah, Spencer. Nice to see you.” He said, smiling.
“I see you enjoy the mechanical art that is steam power.” He said, picking up one of the hats on the shelf. It was a black top hat with a peculiar pair of goggles on it. He placed it upon Brendon’s head.
“What are you doing?” Brendon asked, smiling.
“Why, it looks fantastic on you!” Spencer laughed. “You should take a look at the suits, too. If you’re going to live here, you should look the part.”
“Thanks for the advice, Mr. Smith. Perhaps you could accompany me to dinner tonight?” He asked. Spencer gave a wide smile.
“I’m looking forward to it, Mr. Urie. Here,” he said, pulling out a business card, “is my address. I expect you no later than 7.” He winked and walked out of the shop. Brendon looked on as he left.
“Very blunt, now isn’t he.” He mumbled under his breath, smiling a bit. He walked to the sales clerk after awhile.
“Hello sir, I see you found a lovely hat and suit. Dressing up for so someone special?” She asked. He smiled.
“Something like that.”

—-

“I can’t believe we’ve been going out for months now.” Spencer mumbled as he and Brendon cuddled at his