a breath of zest

a very short story

The man had a prominent, square jaw and sharp, furrowed brow. His relaxed mouth droops to a frown. Wrinkles cut deep within. His boots scuff the sidewalk, raking leaves in his path. He inhales the brisk air, and coughs clear and contently.

His eyes, silent dark marbles, glisten and stare. Past the crisp air to the distant memories. Passerby steal a quick glance then look away, to escape their beam. His smile no longer curls up and his eyes hold back tears.

He sits down on a park bench and dabs his eyes with a napkin.  A little girl who was playing in the park skips to his bench and plops down, a lemony dollop, beside him. He tries to smile, she sees his eyes. She holds her hand out to him. He gives her a glance, brows raised. She wiggles her hand, nudging closer. He complies. They are sweet and sweaty, his eyes crinkle.

The sun dips behind the trees. Her mother calls. She gently releases his hand and sets it on his lap. She leaps up, a little wave and a grin. She bounds up the street, a streak of zest. He leans back and chuckles as the sunny girl sets.

Author's Note

I'm trying to think of a better title

Reviews

[Writergurl]

Zest for life maybe.... I enjoyed this write very touching and emotional

[Luuucy]

Thank you for all of your reviews!

[Writergurl]

not a problem