A Dark and Dreary Afternoon

Writer pilgrim Substack: Writing Prompt 119: Prompt Station: picture prompt

Photo by Writer Pilgrim Substack

Ellen viewed the empty benches as her boots splashed through the overflowing river water. Thoughts of warmer days flashed through her mind.

“Never mind,” she murmured quietly. “Soon we will return to those times.”

She walked over and sat on a bench ignoring the cascade of water that was falling all about her.

“Many things change,” she stated to herself, “but some memories carry on forever.” She pictured her husband tossing a line into the river and talking about those damn Yankees buying everyone in sight to make them a better team. Her memories turned towards her son falling into the water only to be plucked out by her laughing husband. She reflected on the time her daughter was sunbathing when a sea gull approached and stole her bag of Doritos. The Doritos were last seen flying into the sun.

“Memories, sunshine and water. Those are pretty much the only constants in our lives.”

Ellen noticed a young man approaching her with a police officer. She frowned and then smiled as they came near.

“Thank you officer,” said Robert.

“Maam,” asked the police officer, “are you okay?”

Ellen looked at the officer. “I am having a splendid time waiting on this bench. My husband should be here shortly.”

The police officer looked at Robert sympathetically as Robert shook his head. “Maam, you are needed at home. We have come to take you there.”

Ellen looked at them. “Is it Bobby? He is always doing things to hurt himself. One time he jumped off the roof thinking he was Superman.”

Robert smiled at the memory. The officer smiled a goofy smile. “I think we all have done that at one time or another. It’s time to go,” he said. He stepped forward and took hold of her elbow to help her rise from the bench.

Robert took the other elbow.

As she rose Ellen commented, “It sure isn’t like it used to be out here.”

Robert said quietly, “You are so right mom.”