‘See, I told you I would bring you home,’ she whispered softly.
She smiled when she said it, smiled the way only a woman in love can smile.
Down there they were waiting for him, with their shiny shoes and their spotless uniforms.
Up here she still had a few minutes left to prepare for the ceremony.
Soon, there would be flags and speeches and hugs from people she had never met.
A soldier is coming home today and they are waiting for him.
Sadly, he had to come home in a coffin to finally get the honor he deserved.
(Wordcount: 100)
The Friday Fictioneers are held by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields. The 100-word challenge taught me to make every word count. “Cut the crap, get to the point, Bridget,” I think I needed that. 🙂
Join us, it’s fun!
Sadly, I knew where this one was going too and unfortunately it’s a tale that’s played out all too frequently 🙁
Such a sad story… too many come home like that.
Yes, they do.
It was the shiny boots that got me. Well done.
I knew where this was going, for it’s somber beauty–– from line one, right to the final words. Really touching!
Smart Lady 🙂
In good company. 😉
🙂
Touching story, your description brought us to the end perfectly.
Isadora 😎
Beautiful tale.
Thank you, I am glad you liked it.
Touching story. Really liked the line. “She smiled when she said it, smiled the way only a woman in love can smile.”
There is a special smile we have for the people we love. It goes deeper.
Sadly, too many come home in coffins–and even one is too many. You made the story personal. Well done.
Thank you
Sad and so well written
Thank you. Brought one of those beloved home last week.
🙁
Very sad but good story.
I agree, well crafted. And though like Rochelle I guessed what was coming, you still built enough poignancy in the tale for that not to matter. A tragic homecoming
A sad one, Bridget. I figured something was coming but wasn’t sure what until it hit. I did a double-take on the “Friday” Fictioners. I thought for a minute I’d lost two days!
Dear Bridget,
I rather saw that ending coming. It doesn’t take away the power or the poignancy of the overall story. Well constructed. Perfect for the day.
Shalom,
Rochelle
Thank you Rochelle. As always, I appreciate your comment.
Wow, what a kick in the ending!
Yes, I know. I almost felt guilty but couldn’t help it.
Tragic tale, beautifully crafted. Excellent.
Thank you Iain.