Crazy (1st Place)

“He’s gone, Ella.” Donna stood in the doorway watching Ella race from room to room.

“What do you mean gone?”

“Took off. Left. Almost two years now.” Donna drifted into the large room and settled into her favorite chair.

“Daddy left? But why? I mean I thought you and Dad would be together forever?”

Donna’s eyes scanned the worn floorboards. “I guess he didn’t like the old ball and chain. We’d grown apart for years. I knew it was only a matter of time after you’d spread your wings.” She shook her head in revered silence.

“Well, do you know where he went?” Ella approached her.

“Not sure. Up north I think.”

“Haven’t you even tried to find him? Look at this place. It’s falling apart. You’re falling apart!”

“Look, honey. I don’t need someone to rescue me. Just go on back to your life. You’ve never given me no mind but for a couple of phone calls anyways.”

“You stubborn old goat.” Ella glared at her mother. Raising her hand to her forehead she walked out the front door, sat on the porch swing, and cried. She rocked back and forth, lost in thought.

“Psssst… Ella,” came a hushed voice.

Ella arose. “Daddy?” She threw her arms around him. “Mom said you’d left.”

“No. Actually she’s the one who’s left.” He placed his pointer finger to his temple and tapped a few times. “She’s really lost it.”

“You mean…”

“Yep. Listen I need a favor. She gets real upset when she sees me and throws things.”

“Ok.”

“Grab the car keys and unload the shotgun.”

“Done.” Ella turned and a few moments later returned. She placed the keys in his hand.

“Thanks. I’ll be seeing you.”

“Where you going?”

“Back up north. Haven’t missed this place in two years.”


300 Words


Flash Story limited to 300 words
Must contain: Chain, Wings, Rescue