THE LAST DELIVERY - Part IV

The six couriers were ready to start the journey now. All the parcels were loaded. They set off from the factory in pairs; today Rudi and Donna were in front. It was 3 o’clock. Already it was growing dark and the weather was changing. The rain had given way to sleet and occasionally there were flurries of snow. Suddenly there was a crash from behind. Two of the couriers had skidded on the icy surface of the road. It looked like Vic and his pal Dan. Donna wondered about their extended lunch break and whether they were fit for their journey. Rudi seemed as much in control as ever; he was too sensible to play their stupid drinking games.

By six o’clock Donna felt really sorry for herself. She was exhausted before the previous trip and twice as exhausted now. She was also very cold and very hungry and very sad. In all the towns she visited to deliver the toys there was a holiday atmosphere – festive spirit, she supposed. Every house seemed cheerful with the lights of Christmas trees sparkling in the windows. Sometimes she caught a glimpse of presents in brightly coloured piles (delivered by SCCS, no doubt) and she heard the sound of carol singing. She even noticed delicious smells of mince pies wafting from the kitchens. Donna knew she had no part in any of this . . .

(Part V will be posted on Friday)