Jungle Juice Novels & Stories

My basket was half full when I spotted the juice aisle. I stood there a good ten seconds, glaring at the empty shelf. Right. My juice. Bought out by the fever-ridden psycho currently trying not to bleed on my leather seats. I rolled my eyes so hard it almost hurt. "Unbelievable. He's dying and still thinks about hoarding passion fruit juice for me. Maniac." I grabbed bottled water instead, stuffed three into the basket, and headed for the counter. The cashier, a kid barely old enough to shave, glanced from the mountain of medical supplies to me. His eyebrows rose. "Uh... rough night?"

The stand was renowned for its freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, a local delicacy that promised a revitalising experience. They settled on a small wooden bench, the rustic charm of the stand mirroring the simplicity of their surroundings. The sweet, cool sugarcane juice was a welcome respite from the warm afternoon sun. As they savoured the refreshing drink, their conversation flowed effortlessly, turning to the similarities between their cultures. "This sugarcane juice is incredible," Maria exclaimed, her taste buds awakened by the sweet nectar. "It reminds me of 'caldo de cana,' a popular drink back in Brazil, especially during the scorching summer months."

The simplicity of it was achingly tempting. “I shouldn’t,” I said automatically, the secret flashing like a warning light in my mind. “One juice,” Jade amended, her smile tired but genuine. “A fancy, healthy, stress-busting juice. I saw Anya make a pitcher of that green stuff with ginger and kale. It’s practically medicine. Come on. Just sit with me for ten minutes where no one is talking about shell companies or counter-protocols.” The plea in her voice, the need for a shred of our old, simple connection, broke through my resistance. She needed this. Maybe I did, too.

“Let’s watch up close! I hope Zane wins.” Personally, I wouldn’t have minded if the party ended. But the sight of Callum participating in a jungle-juice-drinking contest definitely wasn’t on my Bingo card for today, so I couldn’t help but want to watch. Zane grabbed two red solo cups and scooped two ladlefuls of the punch into each. He handed one to Callum, who took it, sniffed it, and wrinkled his nose. “The fuck is in this?” he asked. “Raw sewage?”

Luna washed it all down with a refreshing caipirinha, a traditional Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar. To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Luna ventured into the lush Tijuca Forest. She hiked along the scenic trails, surrounded by towering trees, exotic birds, and cascading waterfalls. Luna felt a deep connection to nature as she embraced the tranquility and beauty of this urban jungle.

He always bragged about shining bright even in the dark. Right after her pep talk in front of the designated workers who would administer Jungle Green’s medicine, Tess spoke to the head doctor who formulated it at a corner of the big tent at a section of the Androva Empowerment Center. It is where the Jungle Greens would gather themselves for a monthly check-up, the highlight of which is the injection of the JG fluid, as it was called, into their veins. “How’s the fluid doing along, doc?” she asked.

The shop was bustling, and it was all thanks to Grandma’s hard work and dedication. “Let me drink that juice,” I said, reaching for the glass of ginger juice mixed with pineapple and watermelon. I set the glass down, savoring the lingering flavors on my palate. This juice was not just a drink; it was an experience, a testament to Grandma’s knack for blending ingredients into something extraordinary. "Grandma, this juice is incredible," I said, my voice filled with admiration. "You have a real gift." She smiled warmly, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm glad you like it, Alyssa. It's one of my favorites too."

Kenzie picked one up and bit into it, savoring the sweet juiciness. "What is this called?" "Jaga." "Ja-ga?" "Immo," Viper responded with a nod. Kenzie offered him a piece of fruit and he shook his head declining. He seemed intent on just watching her. Once she was done with the fruit, she drank her juice and put her plate in the sink. "What kind of juice is this?" "Apyrinum juice." "It's good," she stated rinsing the dishes. She discovered that she loved this sink. Like the shower and the sink in the bathroom, it was motion activated.

“What the hell is that?” “Jungle juice.” She leans in and lowers her voice. “I guess the landlord is out of town for the week, so Amanda is taking full advantage. No fucking quiet hours tonight!” The other girls whoop and cheer behind her. I extend my hand for one of the cups, and Willow takes the other. Jess pours us a hefty amount, and I don’t think before I throw back a big swallow. The flavor is fruity, with a citrus tang. It completely blocks the bite of liquor.

conversation with Chloe. "Double shot then," Chase nudges my shoulder, holding out the cup. I grab the plastic cup of 'Jungle Juice'... it smells like rubbing alcohol and sugar... and down it in one go. My throat catches, and I have to cough. The room does a slow 360-degree tilt. "Next!" I choke out, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand.