WITHERED ROSE

~ Iain Kelly

She had withered over the cold winter. The gradual process of ageing had taken its final undignified collapse.

Francis wheeled her mother outside into the garden, where the morning sunshine had evaporated the dew and birdsong brought promise of the arriving spring.

As the rays of light beamed over the frail figure, the hunched back straightened, the fingers uncurled, the wrinkled eyes widened.

‘I’ll walk, I think,’ Rose stood and took Francis’ arm in hers.

Leaning on her daughter, they shuffled slowly round the garden.

‘I should like a trip to the seaside when the summer comes.’

Francis smiled.

mg-rose-stem
Copyright Marie Gail Stratford

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.

Published by Iain Kelly

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

98 thoughts on “WITHERED ROSE”

  6. Such a beautifully written story!
    I really liked that her name is Rose too. I am glad she is healing, at least, temporarily. I feel her real spring is her daughter.
    I am going to go re-read.🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  9. Very touching, Iain. Reminds me of seeing my Dad walking along with my grandmother pushing her walking frame along while he was walking beside her. My Dad was one of six sons and she was so proud of them and how they towered of her, so strong. It’s lovely to reflect.
    xx Rowena

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. You’re right, and I have no idea why I choose to spell it that way. I think it can be used as a female name these days, but traditionally it is male.

      Like

      Reply

  34. Oh I love how she uncurls out of her wheelchair as she’s taken outside- like a rose in the sun. I love that her name is rose that she’s hopeful for a future even as she physically ages. This is so beautifully written – what a lovely story. I’ll go read it again now 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  44. I hope this is Rose’s rallying for the year, and not a short-lived one. The line ‘The gradual process of ageing had taken its final undignified collapse.’ is such a strong one, allowing the imagination to run and run.

    Liked by 1 person

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