The Phone Call

The call came through at about 3.30pm.

"Which emergency service do you require?"

"Police please," whispered the tiny voice on the other end of the phone. "Please tell them to come quickly."

"Can you tell me where you live?"

Again the whisper.

"246 Charles Street. The house is on fire."

"Do you need the fire men as well?"

"No they're already here."

"Are you OK?"

"Yes," came the whisper again, "well I am at the moment. Please ask the police to hurry. I'm really frightened."

"Are your parents there? Are they safe?"

"Yes."

"Are they with you?"

"No. They're searching for me with the firemen," the voice whispered again."They don't know where I am."

"Why aren't you with them? Where are you?"

"I'm hiding under the bed with the box of matches."