Water With Sparkle

The sun beat down, its rays magnifying the oppressive heat that enveloped me as I trudged down the hill. My mouth was parched; as dry as the dusty trail underfoot. The inside of my throat felt like sandpaper, every swallow a futile attempt to moisten it. Oh, how I longed for a drink. The absence of shops on this desolate path only intensified my craving. My tongue felt swollen, sticking to the roof of my mouth in protest.

And then, finally, as the hill sloped downwards and gave way to civilisation, I spotted salvation—a garage with a small shop attached. I quickened my pace, almost running in my desperation to quench my thirst. The door jingled as I entered, the cool air a welcome relief from the sweltering heat outside.

I made a beeline for the refrigerated section and grabbed a can of Dash, the sparkling water with music. The hiss of the can opening was music to my ears, a symphony that promised respite from my thirst. I watched as the bubbles danced to the surface, the liquid sparkling in the fluorescent light of the shop.

Lifting the can to my lips, I tipped it back and let the cool, fizzy liquid flood my mouth. Ah, the sweet hint of raspberry mixed with the carbonated water was bliss. The bubbles tickled my tongue as the liquid flowed down my throat, providing much-needed relief. My mouth was no longer a desert but an oasis of flavour and hydration. The scratchiness in my throat dissipated, replaced by a soothing coolness. With every sip I felt more and more revitalised, the fog of thirst lifting from my brain. The world seemed brighter, the burden of my walk lighter. I savoured the moment, grateful for the simple pleasure of a cold drink on a hot day.

Inktober 2023

31 Days – 31 Drawings – 31 Tales