The Living Memory - By David Obasi

Written By: David Obasi

Category: Short, mystery, dark romance

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

David Obasi presents "The Living Memory," a short story steeped in mystery and dark romance, for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This gripping tale explores the depths of love and memory, captivating readers with its haunting narrative. Obasi's work is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, as it draws the audience into a world where joy and sorrow intermingle seamlessly.

About the Work

"The Living Memory" weaves a tale of love that transcends even the darkest of events. Through vivid imagery and an evocative narrative style, David Obasi captures the essence of a love that persists beyond the physical realm. The story's mood oscillates between joy and despair, leaving readers to ponder the mysteries of life and love. The chilling twist at the end highlights the fragility of human existence and the enduring bonds that connect us.

The Living Memory

Original Submission by David Obasi

"Will you marry me?!" his voice resonated in her head as she stood petrified with joy as the ring was slipped on her finger... her reply, with a shaky voice, as the metal ran along her finger. She was ecstatic, but was too frozen to move.

This was the best day of her life, her love... Chris, was proposing to her, in a manner she never expected. It was a harmless date, movie, ice cream and chocolate... which now turned into this to crown it all.

She was dreaming.. She was... Happy, as they shared a deep kiss amongst onlookers who were excited for them. The drive back home was slow, she couldn’t staring at him, lovingly, as he drove.

“What?” he said as he turned to face her briefly, smiling as he did.

“Nothing” She replied, still staring at him smiling. “I just wanted you to know… that, I love you.” She continued as he turned to face her.

“And I love, you, mi armor.” He said, as he raised her left hand and kissed it.

“Awwwn… Baby.” She sweetly replied, resting her head on his shoulder as he drove them home.

The red lights flash, causing him to slow down as he neared the T-junction, coming to a halt, he waits, moments, until it turns green… Before…

A truck from nowhere, rams the car from the driver’s side… totaling it, as debris flew about and sounds of broken bones could be heard as the impact contoured the chassis of the vehicle.

The event was fast, as people couldn’t even tell how the collision happened, for all they saw was a truck hitting a car that was about to move during a green light.

There was blood, sounds of concern, pain and sorrow as people rushed to aid however they could. It wasn’t a pretty sight, even for her.. as she stared at him, blood dripping down his already bloody face as he stared, blinking sporadically at her as she slowly blacked out. The words; “Chris…” tumbled out of her lips as darkness finally enveloped her as the sound of sirens came up in the distance.

Weeks later… a dark skinned man, groomed himself as he prepared for an occasion. His hair was combed, shirt, clean and neatly pressed as he threw on a black blazer over his athletic frame. With shaky hands, he puts on prescribed glasses over his constantly twitching eyes. A picture standing on the stony counter, seemed to constantly catch his attention as he dressed. It was a smiling woman.

“Abigail… How I always miss you. “ were all he said as fixed up his bow tie, smiling at his image that appeared across the glass on the picture frame. Slowly taking the wrapped orchids, he heads out, beaming with a smile as he stood by the road, waiting for Abigail.

Minutes go by, he waits… as a cold breeze began to blow, rustling up leaves as it passed him by.

“Must be one of those days.” He said, as he pulled his blazer tightly, around himself.

Headlights, suddenly appearing in the distance, like two bright eyes in the dark, slowly made its way towards him.

Shielding his eyes, he awaits, as a black car pulls up beside him… Inside, sat a slender figure, that appeared to adjust itself, before stepping out.

It was...Abigail. Looking amazing as ever. These past few years had been a bit cold, but she had always pulled through...

Looking at a small package and roses, she makes her way towards him, bearing on her, a solemn look.

Not able to contain himself with joy, he steps forward, arms stretched out to meet her.

"Oh, darling, I've missed you." he said as he embraced her, watching as a smile escaped her lips.

And at that moment, he was very, very, happy.

But suddenly, he felt himself go cold, as the chill from the now bitter wind that blew him made him realize... He was alone... as Abigail, had walked right through him and wasn't stopping.

Now filled with fright, Chris now ran, to catch up with Abigail as she now suddenly stopped in front of the stony counter, dropping both the package and flowers on it.

"Abigail!!! ABIGAIL!!!" he yelled as his voice reached deaf ears. Abigail, paying no attention to him, began to weep as she fell on her knees.

At this point, Chris had to see for himself… and discover, to his greatest fear…

She was kneeling in front of a tombstone, with the words inscribed on it…

“In loving Memory of Chris Akante. The Love of my Life and Soulmate. Here lies the greatest man, I will forever love.”

Chris held himself with grief… As he realized the truth..

He was dead.

And knowing that, he watches on, at his weeping love, as he slowly dissipates with the wind, calling forth her name.

"Abigail."

He was gone, as Abigail, looks about her, after hearing the cold wind whisper her name as she quietly replied;

"Chris...?" with no one around in sight.

The End…

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is an esteemed event celebrating literary talent across diverse genres. Writers from around the world showcase their creativity and passion in this vibrant platform, contributing to a rich tapestry of contemporary literature. The competition stands as a beacon for emerging and established authors to present their unique voices to a global audience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to David Obasi for sharing "The Living Memory" with us. His participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of storytelling with his unique narrative. We look forward to witnessing more of David's creative endeavors in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.