One Last Storm
Boys, Bicycles and Laughter
Pushing their bicycles up the rocky path was a time for laughs and hunger after a day spent swimming and exploring by the North Sea’s inlet to their small village on Sweden's west coast. Storms never frightened these boys; they knew when it was time to head for shelter. This jaunt would take a life changing twist. As they felt the pelleting rain upon their backs the sky split open, winds whipped upon them fiercely, their vulnerabilities exposed.
In total were three, thirteen, twelve and fourteen. Their eyes locked when the lightning struck; their bicycles lay silent in their wake.
About the Creator
ROCK aka Andrea Polla (Simmons)
~ American feminist living in Sweden ~ SHE/HER
Admin. Vocal Social Society
Find me: @andreapolla63.bsky.social
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More stories from ROCK aka Andrea Polla (Simmons) and writers in Fiction and other communities.
Midnight Whispers
I was born four years ago in a pet shop on Sweden's west coast. I don't remember much of my first months, yet I am grateful a kind man chose me to surprise his wife for her birthday. I was six weeks old, female and she was fifty-six. Apparently, she had been through a rough year with her physical health and I was meant to brighten her daily life. She was determined to bond with me, in that dogged human way when they repeat words and expect bountiful results such as sitting up on command, giving out treats for ridiculous behaviours and exhausting themselves loopy with ideas to communicate. I had everything, agility training, paper towel tubes, toys, freedom to be in her and her husband's bed to watch television and okay, I enjoyed being spoiled to some extent. She named me Bella; I am part Dwarf and part Lion-Haired and without seeming vain, I admit I live up to my name.
By ROCK aka Andrea Polla (Simmons)3 years ago in Fiction
Hard Work Beats Talent
When I was in high school, everyone thought Rameen was the best student in our class. She was naturally smart, could solve problems quickly, and rarely seemed to struggle with anything. Teachers praised her, and her classmates admired her. Compared to her, I often felt ordinary, or even a little behind. I wasn’t born with the same natural ability in math and science, and at first, I let that discourage me.
By Sudais Zakwan3 days ago in Fiction
📢 Raise Your Voice Thread: 01/08/2026
Our “Raise Your Voice Threads” are hosted most alternating Thursdays at 12PM ET to offer creators more avenues to uncover exceptional stories on Vocal. As we are continuously searching for fresh creators and inspiring stories, this thread provides an opportunity to exchange and discuss the stories that have moved and motivated us on Vocal.
By Raise Your Voice by Vocal7 days ago in Resources
Comments (1)
Very creative and powerful ROCK. Well done!