A very short story.
The Wish
They locked eyes for a moment, assessing each other.
The djinn unfolded its arms, then, “You have a desire, everybody does. It is something I can grant for you, but you must consider that with you desire wisely for a payment is required.”
Joel pondered deeply, saying nothing.
“Many wish for power and wealth,” the djinn continued, “I can grant you things only the rare few ever come close to obtaining. You need only ask.”
“What is valuable to you?” Joel asked.
“It matters not what is valuable to me, I am bound to this duty, and I may only be free to continue on my way once my duty is fulfilled.”
He thought of his mother, of all the memories, of all the happiness and care she seflessly gave to those around her. His life had been lacking since her passing, as had the life of anyone who knew her well.
Joel smiled.
“My mother brought so much joy to those around her, the world is a bleak place without her in it. I need her back, our family needs her back.”
“So be it.”
It was as though something moved through the air, subtly disturbing the space between them. Somehow his mother appeared suddenly in front of him. No puff of smoke, no flash of light. It was as though she had always been there, never gone.
They smiled at each other, though his mother’s face soon changed into an expression of concern.
A light-headedness abruptly came over Joel and his vision started to fade. He stumbled forward, falling to his hands and knees.
“Payment is due, Joel.”