7.25.25: The Cassette Tape
Derek hit B7 for chips. Nothing dropped. He smacked the side. A soda fell. Then gum. Then a cassette tape labeled Play Me. Confused, he stuffed everything into his bag. At home, curiosity won. He dusted off an old player. Static, then a voice: “We’ve been watching. You passed.” He laughed. Then the lights flickered. His apartment door unlocked itself. Outside stood a man in a suit holding another cassette. “You ready?” he asked. Derek didn’t know what for, but nodded. Some choices you don’t remember making. Others? You make before you know you already said yes.