Here it Comes

The winds swirled a little, then left us standing there. It had been at least 5 minutes since we looked each other in the eyes. The smell of salt, as well as some less discernable scents pervade the air. He knew as well as I did just what would happen next.

“Looks like it’s finally time. I have to say, I never thought it would be this early, but I guess neither of us knew this would happen.” He gave a quick glance to the wreckage 200 yards to the side of us and grinned almost sarcastically.

“It might be your time, but I’m not ready to go quite yet. You know, this all could have been avoided if you had only…”

“Don’t tell me things could’ve been different. I know what happened, and I did what I had to do. The last thing I need is someone who has no idea what they’re getting into tell me what should have happened. Besides, it’s not like you’re a saint either.” Giving that same little half smile.

“Not yet anyway” I mused.

“So are we gonna finish this or what?” Impatience seethed through his voice this time.

“In due time” I spoke in the most convincing voice I could muster, even though I didn’t believe my own words.

“No. No more time. This has gone on long enough. One way or another, this is going to end. One way or another one of us is going to die. I’m not going to let you dictate how and when. No, this ends on my terms”

He reached for his metal. Caught a little off guard I immediately looked for what little cover I could find in the sand. A small hill, about 15 feet away. Adrenaline pumping I shot out from where I was and dove, getting sand everywhere in the process. As uncomfortable as I was, I knew I couldn’t let myself get distracted. I un-holstered my gun and waited for his next move.