Frank walked as slowly as he possibly could. He chose to walk instead of riding alongside his wife in their car.1
He used the time he gained wisely: to think.2
He wasn’t sure how drastically life would change now. His briefcase felt heavy in his tensed hands, weighed down with the burden of a present. Frank knew it was the perfect gift for Clara. After all, it was something she was asking about for ages. So why was he so bothered?3
He was wearing an amazing suit, as well. It was picked out by his wife, but it still looked smashing on him. His shoes were shined expertly, and every strand of his thin, greying hair was held securely in place with gel. Frank was absolutely sure that he looked as stunning as possible for this special occasion.4
“Ah,” Frank murmured quietly. “That must be what it is.”5
He was positive that the coming occasion was to blame for his nerves. It was a special occasion, and was also a joyful one, but it had Frank worried. He didn’t know what significance this would have on his and Clara’s relationship.6
What if she stopped liking him? What if she moved away and refused to call? What if she didn’t respond to his mail?7
Frank couldn’t stop thinking about the negatives. Sure, a good thing was going to happen today, but what if Clara changed beyond recognition? These thoughts had Frank on edge, and he was about to fall. Frank was sure that his life would never be the same once Clara went through with this.8
Of course, his wife had been completely okay with it. “It’s because they’re both women.” Frank mumbled to himself.9
His wife had no problem letting go. In fact, it almost seemed as if she had thrown Clara directly to the wolves. She was willing to lose Clara, and was euphoric about it, unlike Frank.10
Continually walking down the same path, Frank noticed something about the forest he was in. He chuckled to himself as he remembered exactly where he was. This was the forest that he had always brought Clara to as a child, especially when she began to cry. The rustling trees and glimpses of nature had kept her happy, and as Frank remembered, he became happy as well.11
At the end of the series of trees was an opening, with light streaming through. Frank exited the forest and stepped into the sunlight, blinking away the sunspots. There was a road ahead of him, and a smile tugged at his lips as he saw the crowd gathering.12
Crossing the road led Frank to a church. He was as ready as he ever would be to let Clara go. He might as well get this over with.13
Frank heard an ecstatic squeal, and turned, only to have his arms immediately filled with a gleeful young woman in a white dress.14
The smile won against Frank’s thoughts. “Hello, Clara.” And he kissed the top of her head. Maybe this won’t be so bad after all, he thought to himself.15
Clara looked into Frank’s blue eyes, which she had inherited, and delightfully said, “Well, daddy, you’re right in time to walk me down the aisle.”16
Bronze trophy winner
Gold trophy winner
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