Gone

"Now, wasn't that dinner great?"
"Oh Mike, you sure know how to give a girl a great time."

Michael smiled as Kathy leaned over and gave him a kiss on the cheek. The two were returning home after a dinner date which had been put off for far too long due to their busy schedules. Everything went off without a hitch as Michael planned. The violinist, flowers and steak were all expertly handled by his friend at the restaurant. Michael made a mental note to buy Fernando a drink the next time they went out for drinks.

It was getting dark, and Michael was starting to worry. They should have been able to see the houses of the suburb they lived in fifteen minutes ago. He was sure they were not lost, yet the absence of the houses or even Jeff's Corner Stop which should be the first building to come in sight was troubling.  Kathy asked, "Mike, are we lost? I know it must be tiring, but-" Michael cut her off, "I know, I know. Tired, that's all. Don't worry hon we'll be home soon." He turned a left. He was very sure he was not lost.

"Mike, look. The sign." pointed out Kathy. Michael looked to where his fiance was pointing and nodded. The ever-present sign which said: You Are Entering Cloven Hills. Their home. Michael always had to amuse himself that there were no hills anywhere in or near the town they live in. It was a clean and nice town with friendly folk. Kathy had approved when they were picking out a home. They would be happy there.

The car had just passed Jeff's Corner Stop when Michael saw a sight so shocking he slammed on the brakes. Luckily Kathy and he had their seat-belts on or they would be thrown forwards. Nonetheless, Kathy yelped in pain at the sudden jerk where the seat-belt pressed into her. Kathy blew her hair off her face and asked Michael angrily, "Michael! What are you doing?!" Michael shushed her and whispered, "The town..." Kathy looked to the horizon where the peaceful town of Cloven Hills stands. Kathy gasped as she registered what Michael saw.

Where the town was supposed to be, was barren land.