Hannah Selby is the readers’ choice in this week’s Indies Unlimited Flash Fiction Challenge.
The winning entry is rewarded with a special feature here today and a place in our collection of winners which will be published as an e-book at year end.
Without further ado, here’s the winning entry:
A Humble Repast
by Hannah Selby
“Calm down, honey,” the man murmured as he held her close. “It will be all right. He might not be here for you.”
“Of course he is, David. Does anyone else here look this bad?” she asked, gesturing to herself. “Besides, I can see him. That’s cause enough for concern.”
David stayed silent. There was nothing he could say; Mabel was right. She looked as if a gentle breeze could knock her over. He softly rubbed her back, trying to give her some comfort. He wished there was something he could do, but the entire situation had spiraled from his control long ago. The fact that he couldn’t even see the figure was only a painful reminder of this.
He remembered the day it all began so clearly. He had come home from work to find Mabel collapsed in the hall. He rushed her to the hospital, only to be informed that they had no idea how to treat her. From there, it had been an uphill battle. Almost all of their money had been spent trying to find someone, anyone, to help her to no avail. Now, they were forced to frequent shelters and rely on charity just to survive.
The figure stalked towards their corner.
“I love you, David,” Mabel murmured, resigned, and turned to hug him.
She didn’t want to look as Death’s scythe came down.
Congratulations to winner Hannah Selby and author Kelsie Stelting for their excellent entries in this challenge.
Thank you!