The Gadget ***

The oversized plasma TV images were stunning vivid. But for Sundi, the boredom was overpowering. He got up. Something urged him to sit down again. But after a few moments the calling became too much to resist. He got up and walked out, slamming the door shut.

Soon he was at the store. He browsed the magazines for a while. Then he moved on to the hardware section. The call seemed to be coming from there. He walked down the aisle, viewing the power drills.

No. Not here. Now he was at the electrical section.

Suddenly the buzz in Sundi’s mind. Yes. He was unmistakably close. He looked at the gadget. It looked like an oversized electrical adaptor. Sundi picked it up. He inspected it, turning it over and over. He read the instructions.

“This product is man built for toughness and is long life proof. While using, the thumb is light to push the button and then can better illuminate LED. Do not extinguish from supply...” and so on.

Sundi didn’t have a clue what the gadget was for. But he was sure this was it. He looked around casually, as he handled the object. He expertly scanned for the cameras. There were none in sight. He walked on to the next aisle, neatly slipping the gadget into his baggy pant pockets as he did so.

He sauntered over to the check-out counter, carrying the packet of potato chips and the chocolate bar.

“RM 8.40 sir.”

Sundi paid and walked outside. Once at the car park, he tossed the chips and chocolate into the trash bin. Gingerly he took the electrical gadget out from his pocket. His heart beat furiously. Sundi smiled as he stroked the gadget lovingly.

Soon he was home. He unwrapped the gadget and placed it on his headboard shelf. He looked proudly at his collection. Sundi felt a sense of peace engulfing him.