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What no parent can do for their child ...
"Out or in, Gabe," I called from the kitchen.
He stood astride the doorway, grubby little hand swinging the screendoor in an arc of indecision. A fluffy golden streak shot past.
"You let Kip out!" I scolded, drying my hands and heading to the door.
A screech. A thump. A yelp, a wail.
Running, I snatched Gabe before he reached the street, turning his horrified face from the bloody tangle of fur and bone.
"Kip's gone, honey." I stroked his tear-streaked cheek.
He looked at the screen door in anguish.
"Make time go back, Mommy! Make time go back!"
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Thank you for reading. Another version of this story I wrote earlier, in haiku form:
About the Creator
Sonia Heidi Unruh
I love: my husband and children; all who claim me as family or friend; the first bite of chocolate; the last blue before sunset; solving puzzles; stroking cats; finding myself by writing; losing myself in reading; the Creator who is love.
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Comments (9)
I want to cry! This was so well written. I can’t get the scene out of my head! Shocked, saddened, empathetic for Gabe. Wow.
Heartbreaking and so real. You capture this well with so few words. Nicely done👏Pernoste
Your masterful story is a Brutally compelling scene of a life lesson. I’ve heard the opening words. You put us there. Poe said the greatest stories touch at least the shadows of the mystery of death. Excellent writing, Sonia
Such a painful lesson in permanence. 😢 If we could only turn back the hands of time. Great story, although gut wrenching.
Opening words, something all eight of us kids heard repeatedly through childhood. Mom would not tolerate the in & out. And though we didn't have indoor dogs, if we had & one of us other than Rick (the oldest & her pride & joy), had let them out & this had happened, we wouldn't have sat for a week & she would have held it over us forever. I prefer your gracious & tender approach, in spite of the tragedy.
Oh no!!! Ahh!!! So compelling
Oh, no. This is devastating for all parties involved 😢 Excellent writing. I saw it in my mind’s eye just like a scene in a movie.
I've been there. So sad, and beautifully written.
Awww, if only ❤️