To Shuffle No More

Written for the Daily Flash Fiction Challenge with a word limit of 300.

The prompts: This story must contain the words: Tea, Brush and Dark

To Shuffle No More

I felt the cold brush my cheek seductively; it first caused a shiver, and then a smile as I recognized the subtleness of Her way.

I set down the cup of tea and pushed myself up to my feet. Once there, I paused to catch my breath before shuffling towards the window.

I do that a lot nowadays – shuffling. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. Part of getting old, I suppose. And I should know, having been there/here before.

She blows the curtains aside as I approach. Nice touch.

The sun is just dipping below the old oak across the street. It won’t be long now. Not long until the dark would bring the newest end; an end to shuffling and to drinking evening tea to warm my bones. Not long until She would bring me the fountain of youth our deal, now centuries old, called for.

I wandered what form the life-force would take this time; someone in their prime, no doubt. They had the most to offer, thus lengthening the time between harvests. I sensed she preferred it that way. Seductive as she was, I knew that there was a loathing for me within her.

But a deal is a deal. And so far, she’d kept her side of the bargain.

As for me, I’d always keep my end up as well. Her name was my secret. Knowledge of it was enough to keep her on a leash.

The sun disappeared and darkness settled in quickly. I can feel my heart jump as I see the form moving towards my front door. My prize has arrived.

The wooden stake ran me through with lightening speed.

Apparently, She has a new keeper; one offering a better deal I suppose.

I’m surprised by my last thought, no more suffling…

Word count 300