Taking Care of the Neighborhood

Taking Care of the Neighborhood

Angie’s front doorbell rang.

It was six fifteen in the morning, and a weekday to boot, why would anyone be at her front door? Living alone Angie was always careful, so she peeked out the side window first. It was her least favorite neighbor Liz. Opening the door, Liz pushed in quickly, still in her pajamas.

“Are you alright?” Angie asked, taking her arm as she swooned.

“I saw a UFO.”

Angie lead her to a chair.

“Where?” Angie asked, not wanting to upset her more.

“Right in my backyard!”

Angie went to the back window and looked out. “I don’t see anything. ... do you think it could have been a dream?”

Liz looked up, with sudden hope in her eyes. “Oh gosh! Of course! It seemed so real! They said they wanted me to go with them! I just panicked and ran to your house. It was a dream! Oh gosh! I’m so embarrassed!”

“Don’t worry about it! My mother had to lock our refrigerator at night or my father would eat everything in it, he never even remembered.”

Liz looked at her a bit oddly, then, “Well, I will definitely call my doctor today and get something for this!” she got up and went straight home.

Angie settled with her toast and coffee by her back window. Glancing out, she saw a large, shiny, gray orb lift out of Liz’s back yard and slowly rise straight up until it disappeared into the blue sky above.

Trying not to chuckle, she decided to send a message thanking the crew of the Bellserat just as soon as she finished her breakfast. They would certainly still be in the solar system after all. Maybe she’d beam over some of their favorite cookies too. No more cranky Liz Vanderbelt!