A Walk on the Beach

A walk along the beach, trying to understand.

The setting sun cast shadows upon the lake, shadows that echoed her mood. She couldn't understand why he was leaving. She wanted so badly for him to stay, it had been planned that he would. Didn't he love her...want to be with her? She walked along the beach away from her family, she didn't want them to see her turmoil. Though she tried to stop them, tears escaped, traveling silently down her face.

Did he want to break their engagement? Was he looking for a way out? She waded into the water, ankle deep, feet sinking into the cool sand. She felt mired down in questions, sinking deeper and deeper with every step.

She continued walking, the pleasant fishy smell of the lake all around her. The rhythmic sound of the waves, as they lapped against the shore, worked to sooth her aching heart. Just then, the last rays of the sun seemed to come rushing towards her. Somehow, it brought her hope. Hope that he still loved her, that he was just confused.

Author's Note

Gary and I had just gotten engaged, when his unmarried sister had a baby. In 1969 there was quite a stigma attached to this. Their whole family was in turmoil. Although he had planned to stay the weekend with me and my family at Caseville, on the coast of Michigan's thumb, he only stayed for a few hours, then left.

Reviews

[M Garcia]

That had to be disappointing to his family, but a baby is always wonderful, no matter what.

[A. V. Madison]

Vivid and amazing, Wendy you are my idol, darling. Keep up the good work :)

[Frankie]

Very sweet and well written. I love the mystery behind this piece, and the description is easy-flowing and textured. Really, really good.

[r. f. jordan]

i can feel the evening breeze as i read this piece. this speaker does good work bringing me to the shoreline with her, assuring me that the breeze is soothing even if the sentiment begins in angst. nice work.