The Big Buck

Kenny loved to go hunting with his dad. It was a tradition, as they went every year. They planned their strategy each year hoping to catch the big buck.

This year, Kenny was old enough to get his own deer tag. He had passed the gun-safety classes offered for his age group. He was ready for this year’s hunt like never before.

Kenny’s dad went through the trees just ahead of him. They had seen some evidence of deer just over the hill, and they knew they were closing in on the search. All was quiet in the forest. Just then, a rustle was heard through the thicket. Kenny dashed through as quickly as he could. He had his hand on his rifle, ready to release at any moment. His dad veered off to the right, but Kenny stayed on the trail. He thought he caught a glimpse of some antlers through the trees.

There was another noise off to the left, and Kenny scurried on. His heart was pounding in his ears. Before he took another step, Kenny looked up and gasped. Standing directly above him was the big buck.

The buck was pawing the ground with his hoof, as if challenging Kenny. Kenny saw the rack of antlers swaying with weight. This was the moment of a lifetime. Kenny clutched his rifle again. He could not take his eyes off the buck. The two stared at each other. Kenny couldn’t decide whether to shoot the deer or let it go.