LOSS

~ Iain Kelly

They lay side-by-side on the bed.

The sun broke over the harbour. Helena sat up and drew her knees to her chest. Nick looked up at her. He knew it was over. He put his hand out to brush a hair from her face.

‘There is nothing more I can do?’ Nick asked. Helena’s hands smoothed her stomach where the scars gave a constant reminder of their loss.

‘There is nothing left to do,’ she said.

‘I will leave tomorrow,’ he said. ‘It’s time I returned home.’ Helena returned his gentle kiss and nodded.

They both knew they could survive apart.

fatima-fakier-deria1
© Fatima Fakier Deria

Written as part of the Friday Fictioneers challenge hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details HERE). The idea is to write a short story of 100 words based on the photo prompt (above).

To read stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit HERE.

This week I have cheated slightly and adapted and edited a previous piece of writing that the prompt photo reminded me of. The original, slightly longer version, A Summer In Crete, can be found HERE.

Published by Iain Kelly

39 year old writer, avid film viewer and book reader, employed in the media industry as a television editor.

90 thoughts on “LOSS”

  4. Some relationships come out stronger after moments of profound grief and some don’t. Hopefully they can find a way back towards themselves, if not towards each other after losing their child.

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  13. This is just heart-breaking with no hint of hope for a positive outcome. I assume the must both be realists. I like it Iain, would give it 4 stars if such was an option.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  28. I love the last line, a realization that they have to lose each other to survive. Beautifully written tale of loss.

    Liked by 1 person

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  37. This is so terribly sad. As a woman, I know how bonded you can feel towards your child even in pregnancy. I remember being petrified when I had some signs of a problem at the 7th month of gestation and thought I was going to lose my first child. The grief of such a loss must be unbearable, and it must be so hard for men to know the best way to comfort the woman they love through such a tragedy.

    Liked by 1 person

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