Friday Fictioneer Challenge: Write a 100-word story based on the prompt.
*****
Nothing But Gray
Paul stood, hands in pockets, looking out.
She’s set four places again, he thought. And she sits in a different chair now, doesn’t talk, just looks out the window at nothing but gray stone.
She brought in a covered dish. “Chicken casserole. Your father’s favorite.”
He heard Jack slip in and pull out a chair. Paul didn’t move.
She sat down. “Come. Eat.”
He turned. “Every night, Mom, four plates. And you, just staring.”
“Four people, four plates.”
“Dad’s dead, Mom. He’s dead. Three months now.”
She unfolded her napkin. “And I watch for your father. He’ll be home soon.”
*****
Rochelle Wisoff – Fields – Addicted to Purple
M. K. Waller 