A new flash fiction for the New Year.
* * * *
She ran fast through the city streets. The first fireworks were lighting up the sky.
She found him under a floodlit bridge. He stood, hands in his pockets, gazing at the lights reflected on the flowing river. A ball of red and golden fireworks rose over the city.
“It can’t be the end of the year already,” she said, “I need more time.”
“The old year is coming to an end.”
“But it was New Years Eve only yesterday. I haven’t done half the things I wanted to do.”
The old man shook his head, “Haven’t I told you to use time wisely?”
“But there’s never enough,” she bit her lip, “Could you stop time – just for a moment.”
“That I can never do. All I can give you is this,” he reached into the pockets of his shabby coat and drew out a glowing ball, so perfect and magical, she could not draw her eyes away.
“I cannot give you back 2015,” the old man said, “But I can give you 2016.”
She took the New Year in her hand.
“Make the most of it,” Father Time said as he walked into the darkness, “I don’t want you running down here next year.”
* * * *
May you all have a happy, safe and creative 2016!
© M. C. Dulac 2016
2 responses to “Flash Fiction – The Old Man Under the Bridge”
Wonderful! As soon as the story progressed, I could feel a Pratchett vibe in there, but maybe that is just my nostalgia.
I wish you a Happy New Year, and all the best to you and your loved ones!
I am glad you enjoyed it Oloriel! Happy New Year to you and your loved ones too!