One of These Days
This is my fifth April A-to-Z Challenge. The past couple of years, I’ve written 100-word flash fiction each day. This year I’m doing the same, only with a twist: each day’s story will be inspired by the title of a Paul McCartney song. So let’s continue the fun with…
ONE OF THESE DAYS
“’One of these days,’ he used to say, ‘One of these days we’re going to get a swimming pool. One of these days, we’ll go to California. One of these days, I’ll write a novel, and we’ll tour the world!’”
Olivia sighed, the corners of her mouth twitching, conflicted between tears and laughter.
“Did he?”
“Oh no,” said Olivia, looking fondly at her granddaughter. “And I’m glad. We had such fun sitting on this porch dreaming. Those were some of the best days of my life, just us, alone, talking. Living those dreams couldn’t compare.”
“I miss him too, Grannie.”
Check back tomorrow for “P”…
“One of These Days” is a track on Paul’s 1980 solo album, “McCartney II.”
Beautiful writing, Colin. Poignant.
Love it!
Keep it up 😀
Thank you, Kai! 🙂
No fair! This one made me cry. And it’s Monday. Wonderful writing, Colin.
Yessss!! *fist pump* You know it’s always a win for a writer to make the reader cry–for the right reasons, of course. Thank you, Elise! 🙂
Very nice! I love to sit on a front porch and talk.
Thank you, Dena. I wonder if sometimes we undervalue just spending time with loved ones. Those moments shared can be the most precious. That was kind of my point here. What was it that meant so much to Olivia as she reflected on her late husband? Not all the exciting experiences they shared, but rather that time on the porch, chasing dreams.
Spending time with a loved one really is the most important. It’s a sad story, but well-written as usual.
Thank you, Me. 🙂
Another sweet story, Colin? Very touching. I didn’t actually cry, but I did smile and sigh deeply. I hope that counts.
I know! I’ll start getting a reputation… 🙂 Yes, a deep sigh counts. Thanks, Celia!
Tried to leave a comment and it didn’t go. Hm. Guess I better shorten it.
This one slayed me, Colin. I rescind my comment from yesterday. THIS one is the best one yet to be expanded into a short story. Here’s why.
It’s so relatable for your reader. Everyone has a “front porch” where they’ve sat with a loved one and created memories like this.
Anyone who reads this without getting emotional has only themselves to blame. They didn’t bring enough to the story.
Wow. Thank you for this, John. It’s definitely going on the “potential short story” list.
I thought “he” was still here! And then… and then…sniff. Sniff. Dang it Colin! You gotta warn me about these tear-jerkers of yours!
Well. Like Celia, I didn’t cry, but it did give me a melancholy feeling for my Dad.
Awww… I’m tempted to say sorry for invoking those feelings, Donna–but, no. Instead, I’ll take that as a compliment, and thank you for it. 🙂
That was bittersweet.
Indeed. 🙂