August drabbles - 20

The Puppet Master (5 - Magic Lantern)

Meanwhile, at sea, the rejected suitor gazed into the haze. “I loved her so,” he thought, wondering why she’d turned him down. He remembered her frown, her nervousness, and hoped she’d changed her mind.

As darkness fell he lit the lantern, studied finances and routes, and saw her face.

“I love you,” she declared, the voice so real. “I love you.” He wished it was how she might really feel.

Then he turned out the light, no money left for oil. He loved the girl. He loved his boat. But if wind and hope didn’t change he’d lose them both.

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