Sounds of Tomorrow

“Oh, whatever!” Erin said. She clipped the papers onto the clipboard and started walking next to Jessi as she measured. They were so focused on their work that they didn’t notice the figure sneaking up behind them. He was quiet and worked hard to only stay on the grassy areas so that the gravel wouldn’t give him away. He walked quietly, but quickly and when he was within reaching distance, reached out with two hands and grabbed them on the shoulders.

Both girls jumped and screamed. Erin dropped her clipboard to the ground. They both turned around, ready to fight whoever was behind them. They were surprised to see Jim standing there with a fearful look on his face, and his hands up, ready to cover his face and head should the girls decide to react violently to his entry.

“Uh, boo?” he said timidly.

The girls looked at him angrily “What do you think you’re doing?” Jessi yelled at him and smacked him on the chest. 

Jim stuttered and stammered but could not get the words out. He felt bad now, although during the short time he spent planning the surprise it seemed like a funny thing to do. He honestly didn’t think beyond the sneaking up on them part. He thought that all would be good, that everyone would have a good laugh and that it would be business as usual.