Just a reminder: It’s okay to leave comments!
This story is for Miranda Kate's weekly flash challenge. This is from Miranda's post: This week's photo prompt was taken by American photographer Phil Koch He has some incredible photographs and they are also available to buy on his site (click on his name) and you can also check out more at his page on 500px. Here's a link to the prompt image. This is a very short story, even for a flash fiction. Please note that anyone can join in with a story up to 750 words. Mine has only 202 words for those who are counting (not including the title, scene break marker, and byline). There is a downloadable PDF version of the story on my Patreon site (with free access to the story).
The Homecoming by K. R. Smith William stood motionless while gazing into the sunset. It was stunning. Then again, it often was. This view was one of the reasons they moved here years ago. The autumn colors, the dark, star-filled skies at night, even an occasional aurora filled their lives with beauty and peace. The shore by Lake Michigan would make a wonderful place to spend their last years together. Lifting a container from the bag he had brought, William held it up to the fading light. He whispered a few words. His aged and shaking hands struggled with the top before finally removing the lid. Carefully tilting the heavy urn, a tear fell down his face as the ashes drifted over the shore. Once empty, he replaced the lid and put container back into the bag. His job was complete. After a moment, he turned away from the lake. Lights from the house they had shared sparkled invitingly in the cold, still air, but he just shook his head. This shore was where she wanted to spend eternity, and he wanted to be with her. William sat down on the snowy beach and closed his eyes. There was no point in going home. He was already there.
© 2019 K. R. Smith All rights reserved
Poignant and sad! But nicely done in so few words.
ReplyDeleteThanks! I had to balance the word count for everyone...
Delete