Flashback Friday: Lost & Found

Previously only available to Patrons, all can now enjoy this story with slight edits as part of Flashback Fridays! Original here.

Caleb wasn’t entirely sure what had led him to pack a bag and hit the open road that day. He felt like he simply needed to go on a hitchhiking adventure, but yet he also felt like he had to go down a certain road instead of stand near a highway with more traffic. It was as if a part of him felt lost, yet a voice deep inside of his head was telling him exactly where to go.

And though the road had little traffic, a few cars had stopped and asked him if he needed a ride. “No, I’m just going for a walk,” he’d end up responding. “Thanks for stopping though!”

He wondered why he kept telling them that when he knew deep down he was meant to hitchhike, but none of them felt right. One was a trucker that seemed like he’d probably want a favor. Another, a mom with some noisy kids. None felt like someone he wanted to hop in with.

It was warm enough to take off his shirt, revealing an incredibly toned physique, but still early enough that he could comfortably enjoy being outdoors.

More vehicles stopped after this, but he continued to politely decline and insist he was on a walk. Yet any time he tried to think about why he was there or if he should go home, his mind started to become fuzzy.

The only thing that felt right was to keep walking, occasionally breaking to stand to the side when he saw a vehicle approaching. Why did he think he needed to go hitchhiking, but kept turning down rides?

Such questions muddled his mind some more, and he just kept walking until he saw a sleek black car approaching. This time was different than before, as the music coming from the rolled-down windows sounded strangely familiar. He immediately began to feel optimistic that this would be that one, as something about that music made him feel safe.

Why was his mind still muddled though? Why did that music call out to to him? He needed to know why it sounded so familiar. He needed to talk with the driver.

“Thanks for stopping, Sir. I must admit I’m feeling a bit lost lately, but that music… where do I know it from?”

“You must have been feeling lost even before you left home, huh, stud? I make special videos to help those feeling lost to find their place. You watched my videos, huh, boy?”“I don’t remember, Sir. I think I did. It’s kind of fuzzy, though. I’ve been feeling fuzzy a lot lately. The only thing that has helped is walking today.”

“Why don’t you get in, I’m sure a nice drive will also to help.””

You think so, Sir?”

“I know so. Like I said, I specialize in helping those who are lost find their place. My videos help to lead them to me. It’s not by chance you’re on this road.”

“It’s not?”

“You’ve been longing for something, boy, and deep down, I think you know that. Otherwise you wouldn’t be here. Let’s help you clear your mind further with a nice drive, and along the way, allow me to help you find your purpose in life.”

As soon as Caleb entered the car, the familiar music now heard more clearly, everything seemed to click into place for him. “You… you’re who I was supposed to find. You’re the one I’ve been waiting for.”

“Yes you are, my good boy. I’m so glad you found your way to me.”

“That’s exactly how I feel, Sir. Like I’ve been lost for so long and have finally been found. How can I ever thank you, Sir?”

“Don’t worry, boy. There are plenty of ways you can thank me when we get to our home.”