I have enjoyed all of D.L. Finn’s creative challenges, although I haven’t been able to join in often. Still, I’ve loved reading all of them. And today, I’m jumping in with an inspiration from this image she provided.

“Come on Betsy. We’re almost there.” Aiden turned to make sure his little sister was keeping up.
“But my feet hurt, and my tummy is rumbling.” Betsy wiped her nose on the sleeve of her jacket. “I’m tired. Can’t we just rest?”
“We’ll rest for a very long time when we get there, I promise.”
“You said that a long time ago, but we’re still not there. Is it really going to be like they told you?”
“It is, I swear it. You’ll see. We’re getting close. See those steps ahead?”
The little girl stumbled over a tree root. “I have to stop. And I have to pee.”
Aiden blew out an exasperated sigh. “Fine. Squat behind that bush. I’ll turn around.”
He waited patiently until he heard Betsy’s soft footfalls behind him, then turned. “Why don’t I carry you the rest of the way?”
Betsy raised her chin and squared her small shoulders. “I can walk. But I’m so hungry.”
Aiden dug in his backpack and pulled out a protein bar. He broke it in half, handing the largest piece to Betsy and devouring the remainder in one bite. “Now. Can we please go? They’re waiting for us.”
“How do you know?”
“Because I can feel them. Eat your protein bar and keep walking. I promise you it’s going to be worth it.”
The little girl sighed and bit off a small chunk of the bar. “You keep saying that.”
“Because it’s true. Have I ever lied to you?”
She shook her head and picked up the pace.
Aiden pointed ahead. “All we have to do is climb those steps. We’re so close.”
Once they reached the steps, Aiden scooped Betsy up and hurried forward. A soft glow emanated from beyond and his breath hitched. They’d made it. Now they would have everything they needed and no one could ever hurt them again. The Angels promised in his dream last night.
He held Betsy tight and took the final step, surrounded by warmth and hope.
Betsy let out a slight gasp as tender hands took her from her brother.
“Come in, children. You’re home,” an angelic voice floated through the air.
Aiden gave into weariness and sank to his knees, letting go of all the tension and worry he’d been holding.
They were safe.
I hope you enjoyed my flash fiction attempt. There’s still time if you’d like to join in. Follow the link to D.L. Finn’s blog post and submit your entry!
CREATIVEPERSPECTIVECHALLENGE EIGHT
I really love this, Jan 🙂 The ending is perfect! Thank you for joining in.
Thanks, Denise! I’m heading over to put the link on your post.
Unsettling but very cool.
Thanks, Craig. I’m happy you stopped by!
I was frightened for the children, but it turned out sweet at the end.
I had to give them a happy ending, Priscilla. Thanks for stopping by!
That is a gorgeous picture. Your story is perfect.
I’m happy you enjoyed it, Jacqui. I was thrilled I could participate in the challenge.
Captivating, Jan, with a wonderful ending.
Thanks, Tim. I’m happy you enjoyed it.
That is a beautiful and creative story. Aiden is such a sweet character. I also love the picture.
Thanks, Thomas. I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
This made me choke up. Very moving, Jan.
I was captivated to the beautiful ending, Jan, and what a good brother Aiden is. Wonderful story for the image! xo
Wonderful piece, Jan!
Yvette M Calleiro 🙂
http://yvettemcalleiro.blogspot.com
Hi Jan, a beautiful story of hope and kindness.