photo by Joy Pixley

“Come, follow me,” she breathed.

“All the way up?” A pain shot through my neck as I craned it back to look at forever.

“Of course. Where else?” She laughed and her dark hair flew behind her as she raced up the steps two at a time.

I tried to keep up, but she kept getting farther and farther away. My legs turned to lead and I leaned against the banister, gasping for breath. “Wait for me! I can’t make it!”

Her voice echoed down, tinged with sadness. “It’s okay. I thought maybe we could go together, but now I know it isn’t allowed.”

“When will I see you again?” I cried out.

Her full-throated laugh floated to my ears. “When it’s your time, love. And I’ll be here waiting to see you at the top. Now go.”

I trudged back down the stairs, my heart heavy and eyes wet.

Word Count: 150

Written for Priceless Joy’s Flash Fiction for Aspiring Writers prompt. For more stories by talented writers click the blue frog button.