Reunion

REUNION

Sarah floated like a balloon on a string looking down on her sleeping form – the tousled hair, her teddy-bear tucked beside her. The sight of the “Albert,” threadbare and patched, brought a smile to her face. All was at peace.

A distant ringing pulled her back and pried open her eyes. Disoriented, she fumbled with the phone, finally mumbling, “Yes?”

“Sarah?” Tom Dougherty’s gravely voice was unmistakable.

“Hi, Tom.”

“There was a crash at the airport. We’ve been tapped for the investigation. We’re assembling at United Hangar 2B.”

At the word “crash,” Sarah was already rolling out of bed. She quickly dressed, grabbed her go-bag and was running for the door.

“I’m on my way.”

As she sped through the deserted streets, she thought, Whatever happened to Albert? She had gotten the bear after her mother had passed away. It was her only solace. What a strange dream.

Arriving, she grabbed her bag and went to the small recessed door. Inside was bedlam. Groups of people stood, seemingly without purpose.

Spotting Tom, she pushed her way over to him. “What’s going on Tom? Where’s the team? Who are all these people?”

Tom smiled. “Hi, Sarah. It’s good to see you too,” he chuckled.

Sarah remembered how much she’d loved his laugh ... before … before he’d died!

Sudden realization swept over her. “Tom – you’re … “

“It’s all right, Sarah. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”

“What … about the crash?” she finished lamely.

“You were on that flight, Sarah,” he said, handing her a newspaper.

Scanning the page, she suddenly stopped as she saw her name. “No! I’m not ... I’m standing right here!”

Tom smiled. “Open your bag, Sarah.”

Unzipping the go-bag, Sarah saw the familiar face of Albert … and understood that everything would be all right.


Notes:
An entry for the 2/8/10 round of "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge"  [13+]
Prompt: Write a story that includes the words: newspaper, string, float

Word Limit: 300
Word Count: 299

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please, as long as you’re here, leave a comment. Criticisms, thoughts, reactions, yes – even words of encouragement or praise – are all equally welcome

Ken