Source...
Rust-colored leaves covered the narrow path of the park. Several more varying in autumn colors settled on the pavement near the freshly decorated bench. Dark clouds rolled in, causing the air to thicken with the metallic scent of rain. Two drops splattered on the bench, then dropped into the crevices.
Though you couldn't see, in the distance, you could hear park goers gather their blankets. Squeals and laughter meant either surprise or delight as they ran for cover. Not the only ones headed for the safety of the underbrush, park creatures joined in their efforts to scurry away.
If one cared to bask in the seasonal change, the immediate clearing of the sky was indicative of the change in circumstances one could miraculously expect at any given hour if so inclined.
On this day, no miracles rushed forward.
A young man on the verge of developing early several strands of silver hair sat motionless next to the raindrops. His body taunt as he removed his cap and brushed his thinning hair back from his forehead. His eyes, as did his thoughts, pierced the boundaries of unreasonableness.
Why me? lamented silently as he sat staring into the withered brush he associated would be his future, oblivious to the wonders of nature unfolding around him.
His name was Conrad. And he was only thirty-two years of age.
Each weekend on a Saturday morning for the past six months he would visit the park bench. No sooner than he sat, a knock on the door requested entrance. He signaled acceptance, then a white jacket became visible from around the doorway and presented itself first.
Conrad smiled at the tall, thin man then shook his hand as both introduced themselves. A new, consultant oncologist who'd only recently learned of Conrad's unique case and diagnosis and agreed to consult.
Conrad breathed in deeply and continued to stare ahead at the bushes, half noticing a bicycle patrolman chasing two young miscreants. On any other day, he would've risen; even jumped upon the bench to get a better look at the incident and those involved.
Instead, he wiped his brow furiously and hung his head low. It couldn't have been more than thirty minutes before his neck felt the strain of his thoughts.
From out of nowhere and behind, a hand touched Conrad's back and began to rub it in a circular motion. A familiar feeling as Priscilla was apt to perform. Her touch would lull him to a remembrance of a peaceful time and place they shared.
Her hands slowly rose to his neck. She tilted his head back and planted a gentle kiss on his forehead, then moved around front and stood squarely, looking down in his face.
Conrad crossed his arms, forming a barrier between them. She grabbed and unfolded them, then eased down onto his lap. Wrapping her arms around his head, she pulled it into her bosom. She freed one hand and reached for Conrad's in an attempt to coerce it around her waist.
He complied for a moment before rejecting violently. Her offer of comfort was misplaced. Concentrate on something and someone with a future attached, he begged in silent protest. So he allowed his body to become taunt under hers as if surprised by an immediate danger.
But Priscilla held fast, praying while promising to herself, I won't allow him to slip away.
Angry tears welled up inside Conrad. How dare they pass this death sentence upon me. Selfish was the only word that came to mind.
Priscilla untangled herself and sat next to Conrad. She reached down into her picnic basket and fumbled for the breakfast bar and juice knowing he'd rushed out without thinking.
Conrad pushed the sustenance away, then blurted, "You have no idea. I spent ten years watching my father fight a bitter adversary while engaging in an unwinnable battle."
It's vicious. I refuse put anyone I love through that. Better to end it now peacefully. Let nature take its course quickly.
My mind was set. Although tests returned negative for the family trait, another disease battled for supremacy. It won out.
My family is cursed. I won't condemn any children before they can even experience living.
"Life is a chance. You roll the dice; then do the best you can at living. I want to take this journey with you, no matter how far it takes us and where it leads." Priscilla stood up and extended her hand.
But Conrad's retreat signaled No. "You want to a full life. You want children. I can't satisfy your dreams. Why waste your time on me?"
She bent to retrieve the picnic basket, then glanced up.
"I haven't wasted the past two years. Any time spent with you is my life choice and experience. Having children will be a blessing. We'll have time to weigh our options. Let's head home."
Priscilla walked slowly down the path away from the park bench. She didn't look back, opting instead to appreciate the changing landscape. Indeed, the weather had cleared, promising a sunny afternoon.
From behind, she could feel a presence. For a long wishful moment, she held her breath, exhaled, then listened carefully.
In a hushed, broken voice, she heard, "twenty-one months, the consulting oncologist forecast."
"I know." She paused before responding lightly, "it's lunchtime already. There's a new bistro two blocks away my friends recommended. Let's reward it with your discerning review."
Priscilla kept walking, not looking back.
12 february 2025, @mariannewest's Freewrite Writing Prompt Day 2645: a familiar feeling.For my theme, I was inspired by and utilized the @daily.prompt's publishing of
A Life Half Empty or Half Full
Source...
Una vida medio vacía o medio llena
Hojas de color óxido cubrían el estrecho sendero del parque. Varias más de distintos colores otoñales se posaron en el pavimento, cerca del banco recién decorado. Unas nubes oscuras se adentraron en el lugar, haciendo que el aire se espesara con el aroma metálico de la lluvia. Dos gotas salpicaron el banco y cayeron en las grietas.
Aunque no se podía ver, a lo lejos se oía a los visitantes del parque recoger sus mantas. Chillidos y risas significaban sorpresa o alegría mientras corrían a refugiarse. No eran los únicos que se dirigían a la seguridad de la maleza, las criaturas del parque se unían a sus esfuerzos por huir.
Si a uno le gustaba disfrutar del cambio estacional, el inmediato aclaramiento del cielo era indicativo del cambio de circunstancias que uno podía esperar milagrosamente a cualquier hora si así lo deseaba.
Ese día, ningún milagro se precipitó.
Un joven a punto de desarrollar prematuramente varios mechones de pelo plateado estaba sentado inmóvil junto a las gotas de lluvia. Su cuerpo se burlaba mientras se quitaba la gorra y se apartaba el escaso cabello de la frente. Sus ojos, al igual que sus pensamientos, traspasaban los límites de la sinrazón.
¿Por qué yo? se lamentaba en silencio mientras miraba fijamente la maleza marchita que asociaba con su futuro, ajeno a las maravillas de la naturaleza que se desplegaban a su alrededor.
Se llamaba Conrad. Y sólo tenía treinta y dos años.
Desde hacía seis meses, cada sábado por la mañana visitaba el banco del parque. Nada más sentarse, unos golpes en la puerta le pidieron que entrara. Hizo una señal de aceptación, entonces una chaqueta blanca se hizo visible desde el umbral de la puerta y se presentó en primer lugar.
Conrad sonrió al hombre alto y delgado y le estrechó la mano mientras ambos se presentaban. Se trataba de un nuevo oncólogo que acababa de conocer el caso y el diagnóstico de Conrad y había accedido a hacerle una consulta.
Conrad inspiró hondo y siguió mirando hacia los arbustos, fijándose a medias en un patrullero en bicicleta que perseguía a dos jóvenes malhechores. En cualquier otro día, se habría levantado; incluso habría saltado al banco para ver mejor el incidente y a los implicados.
En lugar de eso, se enjugó la frente furiosamente y agachó la cabeza. No habrían pasado más de treinta minutos antes de que su cuello sintiera la tensión de sus pensamientos.
De la nada y por detrás, una mano tocó la espalda de Conrad y empezó a frotarla con un movimiento circular. Una sensación familiar como Priscilla solía realizar. Su tacto lo arrullaba al recordar un tiempo y un lugar pacíficos que compartieron.
Sus manos subieron lentamente a su cuello. Le inclinó la cabeza hacia atrás y le plantó un suave beso en la frente. Luego se colocó de frente y le miró a la cara.
Conrad cruzó los brazos, formando una barrera entre ellos. Ella los cogió, los abrió y se sentó en su regazo. Envolviéndole la cabeza con los brazos, tiró de él hacia su pecho. Liberó una mano y buscó la de Conrad para rodearle la cintura.
Él accedió por un momento antes de rechazarla violentamente. Su oferta de consuelo estaba fuera de lugar. Concéntrate en algo y en alguien con futuro, suplicó en una protesta silenciosa. Dejó que su cuerpo se burlara bajo el de ella, como sorprendido por un peligro inmediato.
Pero Priscilla se mantuvo firme, rezando mientras se prometía a sí misma: «No permitiré que se me escape».
Lágrimas de rabia brotaron en el interior de Conrad. ¿Cómo se atreven a dictarme esta sentencia de muerte? Egoísta fue la única palabra que le vino a la mente.
Priscilla se desenredó y se sentó junto a Conrad. Metió la mano en la cesta de picnic y buscó a tientas la barra de desayuno y el zumo, sabiendo que él se había apresurado a salir sin pensar.
Conrad apartó el sustento y luego soltó: «No tienes ni idea. Me pasé diez años viendo a mi padre luchar contra un adversario acérrimo mientras se enzarzaba en una batalla imposible de ganar».
Es despiadado. Me niego a hacer pasar por eso a alguien a quien quiero. Mejor terminarlo ahora pacíficamente. Dejar que la naturaleza siga su curso rápidamente.
Estaba decidido. Aunque las pruebas dieron negativo para el rasgo familiar, otra enfermedad luchó por la supremacía. Y ganó.
Mi familia está maldita. No condenaré a ningún niño antes de que pueda siquiera experimentar la vida.
"La vida es una oportunidad. Tiras los dados y luego vives lo mejor que puedes. Quiero emprender este viaje contigo, no importa lo lejos que nos lleve ni adónde nos conduzca « Priscilla se levantó y le tendió la mano.
Pero la retirada de Conrad indicaba que no. «Quieres una vida plena. Quieres tener hijos. No puedo satisfacer tus sueños. ¿Por qué pierdes el tiempo conmigo?»
Se inclinó para recoger la cesta de picnic y levantó la vista.
*"No he malgastado los dos últimos años. Todo el tiempo que he pasado contigo es una elección y una experiencia de vida. Tener hijos será una bendición. Tendremos tiempo de sopesar nuestras opciones. Volvamos a casa.
Priscilla se alejó lentamente del banco del parque. No miró atrás, sino que prefirió apreciar el paisaje cambiante. El tiempo se había despejado y prometía una tarde soleada.
Por detrás, sintió una presencia. Contuvo la respiración durante un largo instante, exhaló y escuchó con atención.
En voz baja y quebrada, oyó: «Veintiún meses, pronostica el oncólogo consultor».
"Lo sé. “ Hizo una pausa antes de responder con ligereza, *”ya es la hora de comer. Hay un nuevo restaurante a dos manzanas que me recomendaron mis amigos. Recompensémoslo con tu exigente crítica».
Priscilla siguió caminando, sin mirar atrás.
12 february 2025, @mariannewest's Freewrite Writing Prompt Day 2645: a familiar feeling.Para mi tema, me inspiré y utilicé la publicación de @daily.prompt de
SOURCES:
a) JustClickindiva's Footer created in Canva utilizing its free background and images used with permission from discord admins.
b) Unless otherwise noted, all photos taken by me with my (i) Samsung Galaxy 10" Tablet, (ii) Samsung Phone, & (iii) FUJI FinePix S3380 - 14 Mega Pixels Digital Camera
c) Purple Butterfly part of purchased set of Spiritual Clip Art for my Personal Use
d) All Community logos, banners, page dividers used with permission of Discord Channel admins.
e) Ladies of Hive banner used with permission of and in accordance with the admin's guidelines
f) Thumbnail Image created by me in Canva.
g) "Flames." What is Apophysis 2.09. https://flam3.com/
If translation included, I use DeepL to assist my readers.
Thanks for your patience an understanding.
Si se incluye traducción, utilizo DeepL para ayudar a mis lectores.
Gracias por su paciencia y comprensión.
Such a beautifully written and emotional story! It really shows the depth of Conrad’s struggle and the pain he’s carrying inside. His thoughts and feelings about his future, and how he’s trying to protect those he loves, are so raw and relatable. At the same time, Priscilla’s unwavering support and love for him are incredibly moving. She doesn’t give up on him, even when he feels like he’s too broken to be loved.
The way the changing seasons reflect the emotional shift happening in the story is so powerful. It’s as if nature keeps moving forward, despite everything, reminding us that life goes on—even in the toughest moments. There’s so much beauty in that, even though Conrad’s journey feels so uncertain.
Priscilla’s dedication to him, despite the circumstances, is really touching. She offers him comfort and support, even when he feels like he doesn’t deserve it. Her words at the end show that even in the face of what seems like inevitable loss, there’s still space for hope and connection. It's heartbreaking, but there’s also this quiet sense of love and resilience that shines through, showing that love can still bring peace even in the darkest times.
Hello @sheiladoliente23. You're right. We can learn much for nature and the changing seasons. They move forward uninterrupted by human presence or not. The moment we depart from the physical life, the wind blows, the sun dawns, the night settles, and the next day arrives. We must too. But humans are frail. We need support strength to see the light. It's the connectivity that helps us overcome difficult situations. Priscilla knows exactly what Conrad needs in his hour of self-doubt. She can't do anything about his diagnosis. She can only be his strength companion enveloping him with love and support. I love how she attempts to steer his thoughts toward a task that obviously he loves...visiting restaurants so he can post reviews about it. It's the small things sometimes.
Thanks so much for your visit and analysis of my story. I certainly appreciate it and your insight into the characters. It was spot on. I love it when my readers absorb, then extract the underlying meanings and exposes a view even I hadn't considered. Take care and have a good start to your week.
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You're very welcome! I enjoyed reading your story and thinking about the characters. The way you show the relationship between Priscilla and Conrad is amazing. You're right, small gestures can have a big impact. Priscilla’s love and support, even when she can’t change Conrad’s situation, really show the power of connection. It’s a reminder that in tough times, having someone to help us focus on what we enjoy can make a huge difference.
Thanks again for sharing your story with me. I always enjoy exploring the layers in your writing. I hope you have a great start to your week!
I can see that we both think alike in these situations. I appreciate your candid responses. Take care.
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What a touching story. Accepting a diagnosis like this is not easy. Sometimes anger and frustration often follow, causing a person to push away those who care. I admire Priscilla for her unwavering strength, and her promise of companionship. She does not pressure Conrad but gives him space to choose. Hopefully, he chooses her and makes the most of the time they have left together. Nicely done! Wishing you a relaxing weekend. ✨
!PIMP
Hello @kemmyb. I also admire Priscilla. It's so easy for a person afflicted to fall into a pity party and not know how to rise above it. It takes a strong woman to sometimes lead a man in the right direction and show him what's important in life. Half empty or half full is my title of this story. How you choose to look at like determines how you can live in it with restrictions thrust upon you at given periods. It's always better to go through some things, as they say, with support of family, friends, or a significant other.
Thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to visit and engage with my story. I truly appreciate it and your support. Take care and have a good rest of your weekend.
!LADY
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Whenever I want to unfurl my emotions, I read your work. A tear slid down my cheek, and I'm hoping it's because I'm reading without my glasses. But I know this is not true. The hero in this work to me is Priscilla. It is hard for those going through it, but sometimes I believe it's harder for the loved ones. Watching someone they adore slowly wither in front of them. She is a strong woman, and I hope she spends the months they have left giving this man the time of his life as she can permit, but also healing herself for the time ahead. I aspire to be a writer as amazing as yourself, friend. Someday I would. But for today, I'll enjoy the loveliness and peace embedded in this work, and try as I might not to wander off to sad thoughts.❤️
Hello @jhymi. I woke to a special treat this morning when I saw your comment to my story. I knew I was in for a dissecting session that would leave me in a better place. You didn't disappoint. I appreciate your lovely compliment for my story. Yes, Priscilla is the true hero in this story. It takes someone strong in a person's life to get that person through some things, as my mom would say. I remember my special niece, only 44, who lost her battle with Stage 4 in January. Were it not for my sister, her mom's shoulders, we would all have fallen.
You know, reading this review and analysis of my story from you warms my heart. You have no need to aspire to my writing ability. You already have surpassed that. For I love your movie reviews and short in-depth fiction stories that pack a punch and leaves me thinking and contemplating "what if" after reading. Like @kemmyb, you're a thinker and believer in yourself and your ability. Like her, you dig deep into my stories and unearth the hidden gems, some of which I hadn't considered. That's a true analyst and conveyer of stories because you can "see and feel" it.
I appreciate you each time you stop by knowing how busy you are helping Communities succeed. I only mention @kemmyb in the same breath because you both have the same extraordinary writing talent that far exceeds mine. Besides that, it's your reviews that make an author feel as though they accomplished something special. And that takes a special kind of talent.
Know that you are appreciated on Hive and is headed in higher positions as your talents are further discovered. Some already know.
Take care and have a good start to your week.
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Oh my, thanks so much for your kind words and compliment! I agree with you about Ms Jhymi. She's a fine writer who infuses warmth and brilliance into every word she pens.
Erm, I have to disagree with you about my writing exceeding yours. 😄 It's always a joy to read your stories. I learn so much from them as they are always relatable, insightful and filled with valuable lessons. Thanks for sharing them. I hope you're having a wonderful Sunday. ✨
You are too kind. Thanks always for your support. I thoroughly appreciate it. Take care.
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Nice post...
Thanks so much @arshadkhan4421. I'm pleased you liked my freewrite story. Thanks for stopping by. Take care and have a good rest of your weekend.
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BEER.BEERHey @justclickindiva, here is a little bit of from @pixresteemer for you. Enjoy it!HIVE .We love your support by voting @detlev.witness on