Anna skipped along the path ahead of Mommy and Greg, shuffling leaves with her patent leather shoes. Anna liked Greg. He visited often.
“They’re all the same. Which one’s Daddy’s?”
“A little farther.”
Anna skipped and shuffled until Mommy said, “Here—this one.”
“Where? I wanna see.”
“There.”
Jeremy L Hudlow
Sgt
US Army
Afghanistan
Loving Husband
and Father
Mommy blew her nose. “Let’s go, Anna. We don’t want to be late for the rehearsal.”
As Anna followed them back to the car, Mommy took Greg’s hand. With his right pinky, he fondled the diamond ring on her left hand.
Thanks, a very well written story. You are correct… life has some very tough moments, but we must move onto that path where pain is eased enough to allow living once again. The question is – what will Anna see and experience in 10 years?
Thank you, b. I feel that Anna is moving on with life and will remember her father fondly but love her stepfather as well.
Thank God for men like Sgt Hudlow who was willing to give up his life so Anna could go to her rehearsal. Say what you will about the military, they are the only thing between us and terrorists coming here. If you must blame someone, blame mealy-mouthed politicians.
Thank you, Warren. Actually, I intended for this to be a wedding rehearsal for Anna’s mother and Greg–that’s why he is fondling her diamond as they walk back to the car. So this little family is indeed moving forward . . . but not forgetting Jeremy in the process.
So much in such a short story. I wish them all well. Nice job.
Beautifully woven. I especially liked Anna’s observation that all of the stones looked the same. So much is implied in her innocent comment. I immediately am aware she doesn’t know her daddy. I am both saddened at the loss of Anna’s father.and rejoice as the family embraces new life. Well done.