Cinnabon

“Inhale through the nose, hold for 3, slow exhale through the mouth.” I began trying to remember the soft voice of the woman on my morning mediation app. It was no use. I opened my eyes and hit the steering wheel with both fists. There was nothing that could help me relax now!

I decided instead to amp myself up. I shoved the "High B.P." tape in the deck & the dissonant opening notes of "We Have Explosive" boomed from the speakers. THIS was how to start a Cannonball Run! I knew I'd be 1st to Pearl's Deluxe Burgers in San Fran & win the $100,000, unless

the contest happened to be limited to vehicles that traveled on roads or had wheels. My two legged strider could cross most solid terrain at a high speed. It self-piloted while I could read, nap, or dream in my impact hammock. Westward Ho!

I sat in my strider anxiously awaiting the horn to start the race. I ran through my checklist one more time. Food. Mapping backups. Warm clothing for the mountains. Just as the countdown began, there was a frantic pounding on the hatch. “Let me in!” a familiar voice shouted.

It was Eibon. …At least that’s what one would say if they were going by appearances. Well, and his voice, and his height. Everything matched except for a scar under his chin. “Who are you?” I shouted.

The creature caught me staring at its chin and leapt toward me. I reached into my satchel and pullet out my last defense. It clawed at my face before collapsing under the shock of my taser. "Eibon is gone," it said sleepily, a waft of frosting in the air. "I am Cinnabon."