I see signs you sense me around more lately. Ambling through my presence you shiver and look for my oversized flannel, the one you can’t stand - yet wear all the time. Your eyes widen and dart about, as if knowing you're being watched.
I wish I could tell you it's me. Make you feel better, less alone, but you never hear my delicate whispers in your ear. As you stare off into space making a turkey sandwich, I try getting your attention.
The lights flicker; you hesitate. I'm here. I need you to listen. Instead, you continue to spread mayonnaise, while a silent tear slides down your cheek.
Sitting down, you sigh and drop your head into your hands. You reach for our framed picture. Peace washes over me seeing our wedding photo. Taken last year, yet it seems a lifetime ago.
I know you blame yourself for the accident, but you weren't responsible for my death. You couldn’t have reacted any quicker.
My spirit aches as I suffer your pain as my own.
You push the plate aside; the cold sandwich remains uneaten, and you stand up. You stride towards the bathroom. I have an idea, perhaps I can leave you a message on the mirror? I've never tried that before.
Moving into the bathroom, I feel the warm steam engulf me. Exiting the shower, your breath catches and eyes shimmer as you behold a lone word on the foggy glass - Forgive.
Barb DeMoney is a writer and flash fiction contestant whose work blends drama, comedy, and horror. Her stories explore themes of grief, love, and hope. Her story A Fresh Start will be published at Flash Phantoms in July. There’s Something About Gary will be published in Micromance Magazine this fall. Barb's Bluesky account: HERE
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