The Doorbell

Flash Fiction

The Doorbell

“Ring the doorbell,” said Jessy.

“Do you know who lives here?” Frank asked.

“Sort of… Her name is Mrs. Anderson. She moved in a few months ago. It was winter so I didn’t see her much. Just hello now and then. Mom told me not to bother her because she lost her husband.”

“Where did she lose him?”

“Mom didn’t say, and it was the middle of winter.”

“Maybe she would like some help finding him now that it’s not winter anymore. It’s nice and warm now.”

“We can ask her if she’s home. If nobody’s home, I think it would be alright to climb over the fence just to get our ball back. We just need to be very careful…”

“OK, ring again…”

Inside Jane was standing near the door listening to the boys talking. It was so sweet. But bringing back thoughts of Andrew had left her a bit teary eyed again. She chose to pretend she was not home until she got her act back together.

The boys gave up, and climbed over the fence to Jane’s back yard. Just as they found the ball, Jane came out the back door.

“Hello boys!” she said, “Did you find your ball?”

“Yes,” Jessy said, “How did you know we were looking for our ball?”

“Oh, I just used my magical powers. You live next door, right?” she said to Jessy, “Where do you live?” she asked looking at Frank.

“Don’t your magical powers work for me?” he said.

“Eventually… they’re tired today…”

“I live up the street,” he said, “Would you like us to help you find your husband?”

“No, no. I’ll see him soon enough.”

“OK!” Frank said, and they ran off.

Jane watched them, and smiled. Her first real smile since Andrew passed away.