Cold Night in the Jungle

They removed the camouflage ponchos and made a lean-to. Green and brown cover concealed their whereabouts, giving them a sense of confidence and courage. Speaking in whispers, they watched as the dismal evening turned into dark night. Each noted how the night was darker than what they were used to in America. 

There was no glow of electric lights, and in their shelter, they could barely see each other.

Sounds of the night told the story of business as usual. Nocturnal scavengers, hunters, and prey kept the darkness alive, unaware of their visitors’ fear and discouragement. The rain had let up, but they were still drenched, and with the night, cold.

“Why don’t you open that canned food? The calories will help keep us warm.” John noticed Steve’s shaking. The dampness and lowering temperatures drained his body of heat.

“I’ve got spaghetti and meatballs and some Spam,” Steve offered.

“Which do you want?”

“We can share both.” Steve’s shaking became worse.

“I think we should spoon to keep warm,” said John.

“What’s that?” Steve thought he had an idea.

“I mean, you are losing heat rapidly. This rain may be giving you hypothermia. We are drenched, and the only way to keep warm is to huddle up,” said John.

“Well, the only one I ever get close with is Rachel. Even though you are not as cute, I’ll make an exception this once.”

Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.