Friday Flash – “The Ride”

Her house was perched on the cusp of the valley as if teetering on the rim of a cup. She didn’t miss the town or the frenzy of hustling a few coins, but she did miss the sound of another voice. Not enough to change her mind, but just once in a foggy morning she thought it might be nice to hear a string of sounds that didn’t start with a snort or a hoof pawing the ground.

He said he would be back by morning, leading a group of strays. He’d taken the roan, the mare with a temper to match her eyes. But she was the best for long rides. And it had been a longer ride than expected.

She was still waiting on the brink of this valley after twenty-two years.

Thanks to Madison Woods for providing photo inspiration for today’s 100-word Flash Fiction challenge. Please visit her site to see more outstanding writing samples of the “Friday Fictioneers”!

Friday Flash – “Black Swan” (kbnelson.wordpress.com)
Friday’s Flash Fiction – “Lost and Found” (kbnelson.wordpress.com)
Friday Flash – “Autumn Return” (kbnelson.wordpress.com)
Friday Flash – “Crossing” (kbnelson.wordpress.com)

18 thoughts on “Friday Flash – “The Ride””

Well done! I really liked the last line. She’s a patient woman. 🙂

I love that first sentence…. it really pulls you in! And of course of course I love anything to do with a horse! 🙂 Good stuff!

Very nice! I liked the authentic flavor of this – something I’m not able to write well is straight realism. Thanks for joining us today!

Wow! lovely building up to the last line — it wasn’t exactly unexpected, but I think maybe it worked best that way.

Nicely done. Bittersweet in the longing and expectations. God bless her.

Loved the ending! It was unexpected and threw the story into such a melancholy and sorrowful vibe. Well done!

Well done!… tear.

Karen,

This was one of my favorite stories. I’m still lost in it.

Thank you.

Aloha,

Doug

This is the second story of yours that I’ve read, and my reaction is the same as with the first: there is a LOT of story there for just 100 words. Beautifully written – and a perfect companion to the photo prompt!