Flash Fiction–Between Duty and Devotion
flash fiction, NLAPW
BETWEEN DUTY AND DEVOTION Sitting with John, my mind reflects back fifty years to the day of our marriage. A hot August day in Maryland, sweating in his Navy uniform, ... Read more
Flash Fiction–War
flash fiction, NLAPW
War Strategy is the only order in the chaos of battle. Can’t tell if we’re winning or losing. Combat subsides with an uneasy calm. Losses are surprisingly limited; strength renewed. ... Read more
Flash Fiction–Breakfast
flash fiction, NLAPW
Breakfast Francine poured a cup of coffee and went outside to sit beneath the hemlock. It had been a rewarding though hectic family visit. They left behind a supply of ... Read more
Flash Fiction–Spring Break
flash fiction, NLAPW
Spring Break He stood in the drive as we drove away. His eyes said it all: “I wish I were going, too.” In the car, one grandmother, two granddaughters, and ... Read more
Flash Fiction–Devotion
flash fiction, NLAPW
Devotion Saturday morning, I’m at the local bead shop. It’s like a candy store to me, filled with bins and strings of prismatic glass and crystal beads. I crave color ... Read more
Flash Fiction–The Dew Fairy
flash fiction, NLAPW
THE DEW FAIRY The woods and wildflowers surrounding the weather-beaten boardwalk leading to the lake were wet with dewdrops when I chanced upon a magical creature sitting atop a queen-anne-lace ... Read more
Flash Fiction–Entreating
flash fiction, NLAPW
Entreating “Now,” he said imploringly. “Now.” “I don’t want to,” she answered. “But you always want to.” “Sometimes.” “Sometimes?” “I just don’t want to now.” “Why? Give me one good ... Read more
Flash Fiction–The Wounds of a Soldier
flash fiction, NLAPW
Wounds of a Soldier He was trained to stare into the eyes of others and watch the blood run out. They devoted his thoughts to the historic idea of killing ... Read more
Flash Fiction–Treasure
flash fiction, NLAPW
Treasure Shirtless all seasons, towel tucked into his pj’s waistband, leather moccasin-slippers. Poppy lifts me onto the wrought iron stool. I can reach, stir, spoon. Saturday morning, just we two ... Read more
Flash Fiction–Broken Vows
flash fiction, NLAPW
Broken Vows Trevor raised his hand. “It only happened once. I promise.” “Liar! You rat.” Olivia’s voice shook. “Honey, calm down. We’ll work this out.” “Don’t ‘honey’ me.” She hurled ... Read more