Franklin's Tale

Franklin the fox had always detested roads. He was currently hiding in a cluster of bushes, which was tucked back a couple of meters from a busy road. He'd been there for quite a while, attempting to gauge when the best time to dash across would be. It would take less than five seconds for Franklin to dart over to the other side. However, it would take even less time for Franklin to collide with some sort of vehicle if he got his timing wrong.

The road looked out of place in this area, Franklin thought. Fields, trees, and all sorts of wildlife spread out for miles and miles, only to be tarnished by a twisting pathway of tar and cement. Franklin had lost numerous friends and family members thanks to roads and their users, but it was difficult to find animal-friendly locations these days.

It had been quiet for the past five minutes. Franklin couldn't hear the roar of any engines, nor could he smell the potent stench of exhaust fumes. Pushing aside his uncertainties, he shuffled forward and emerged from his hiding place. Looking from left to right at the edge of the road, he double-checked that all was clear.

Then, from out of nowhere, out of nothing, the familiar growl of an engine pierced Franklin's ears. A gigantic four by four was advancing on him. He knew he had to decide whether he should retreat or take his chances, but his entire being had frozen, including his brain.

The vehicle was no more than ten meters away. With so many thoughts rushing through his head, Franklin still hadn't made a decision: advance or retreat?

Making a last-minute choice, Franklin focused on the grassy bank opposite him. He made his hind legs propel him forwards as far as possible; he bounded out in front of the monstrous machine, into the shadow it cast over him, praying that he'd survive...

The four by four roared past, its driver completely oblivious to the trauma his automobile had just caused an innocent animal.

Shaking, Franklin dove back into the sanctuary of another bush. Covering his eyes with his paws, he attempted to forget all about his latest run-in with death. Yes, Franklin definitely detested roads; he always would.