Ellie struggled along the icy path to the children’s hospital, two full bags in either hand.

‘Morning, Ellie. What are you donating today? More hats?’

Ellie nodded. Bill took the bags from her. ‘Thank you, Ellie. You have a nice Christmas.’

Ellie left silently. Bill handed the bags to Beth. ‘Put these with the rest.’

Beth emptied the knitted hats onto the table, joining the stacks of hundreds more.

‘Why does she do it?’ Beth asked Bill.

‘She lost her own child in the ice storm of ’82. Ever since, she knits hats.’

Beth watched the lonely figure shuffling away, hunched against the cold.

Happy Holidays to all the Friday Fictioneers and those that visit my blog. As always I am eternally grateful for everyone who takes the time to read my offerings. I hope you all have a wonderful break and a Happy New Year.

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.