By J.R. Roth
They sat on opposite sides of the small table outside the corner cafe. She realized it had been minutes since either had spoken and years since either had said anything meaningful to the other.
The streets were alive with traffic and pedestrians.
He, head down, read from his phone. She smiled politely at the passing mother pushing a pram.
She wondered how they’d become so estranged. The stillness between them used to be comforting. Now, the silence deadened her inside.
The traffic light changed. Cars and people moved forward.
She sat on her side of the table and watched them pass.
This is why I like flash fiction! You’ve shined a light on a problem in few well crafted lines
Well done! I like the contrast if the last two sentences.
Very relatable. I love the juxtaposition of a world moving forward and a relationship stagnating. Well done!
Amazing writing capturing a common happening in daily lives. It is written that I hope recognises the unspoken question at the end “Is this us”
You are a great writer! Once again, your work beautifully wraps a common truth in fiction, forcing the reader to look at their own neglected connections.
While passing by the streets having some coffee shop, juice stall , eateries and bars with varied number of people sitting outside, I will observe them closely and try to overhear them.
Realistic, vivid, and good write. Physically, they’re not far, but emotionally, they’re distant.
Good work again. Kudos.
So much loss in so few words. I was left in tears at the end.