Wednesday has come around again, and I’m happy to present this week’s flash fiction.
Kasten was delighted when he pulled into the yard after returning from Glenborough’s Fair. At least he was delighted. Telsilia appeared on the porch glowering at him. She tilted sideways as if he had explaining to do. Kasten was too weary for this.
He retrieved a bushel he’d acquired from the wagon when Telsilia marched up. “Ah, so the long-lost family member deigns to return.” She flourished at the final word.
“Nice to see you too, Telsilia,” Kasten tried to step past her, but she moved into his path.
“What took so long? I had to deal with the South Branch flooding on my own.”
He marveled at the meaning Telsilia packed into the word. Hardship. Burden. The universe’s cruelty to her, and her alone.
“The rains were heavy.” Kasten certainly hadn’t missed the rains, or sodden roads they’d left.
Telsilia sniffed.
Their ma emerged to quietly retrieve the bundle under the seat while Telsilia complained. His bow and axe, wrapped in a blanket. Nodded his ma scurried away before Telsilia noticed.
“Why is there only twenty-three rabbits? Telsilia inspected stock he’d brought back. “I arranged with Widow Dunbar for twenty-four.”
Kasten recalled the brigands. Too many for him to fight. “One must have escaped.” He shrugged.
“One must have escaped?” Telsilia retrieved a cage. “Next time I’ll go and make sure that matters are handled properly. You can stay here and deal with everything.”
“Sure, Telsilia.” Kasten followed his sister muttering, “A great plan to lose everything.”
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