Thank you to Rochelle Wisoff-Fields who hosts Friday Fictioneers. Each week Rochelle chooses a photo prompt to inspire writers to produce a 100 word piece of flash fiction. Do use the link to her blog if you are interested in joining the group. It’s a great way to get involved in writing.
PHOTO PROMPT © Peter Abbey
A bridge too far
Crossing the bridge, I saw the cottage. Home at last!
My father was a tenant farmer. My brother and I joined him, working long hours for small rewards. The unexpected legacy changed everything. He went to business school. I went backpacking.
I lived wild and free and the money soon ran out. It took years to work my passage home.
“Come back have you?” our neighbour’s surly voice spoke behind me. “Too late! Your brother made it big and they’ve gone. Guess your dad never read the story of the prodigal son!”
His mocking laughter followed as I walked away.
Edith M. Field 
Nice twist!
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I’m glad you liked it. Thank you for your response.
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Ouch. That ending hurt, and I felt for the kid. Nice work and good writing too. 🙂
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It certainly wasn’t the homecoming he hoped for. Thank you for your response and your positive comments. Much appreciated.
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Oh my days, no welcome or fatted calf. Good write nicely done. 😇
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Not at all what he expected or hoped for! I’m glad you enjoyed the story. Thank you for letting me know.
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And it would be rude to read your work and not thank you. I always comment it is like the writers wage. 😇
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Great twist
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Glad you liked it! Thank you for your response.
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Sometimes the one who really leaves is the one who learns the most. Maybe he didn’t need “things” in the end. Nice take on the prompt.
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Thank you for your response and your appreciation of my interpretation of the photo. I’m sure you’re right – his life experiences through his years of travelling will stand him in good stead.
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Can’t really blame those left behind for not waiting, it depends on how well he kept in touch, I guess. The scene is great, especially the neighbour.
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Absolutely! The problem lies in the assumption or expectation that the lives of those left at home will not change. It comes as quite a shock to discover that others do not necessarily remain waiting for a loved one to return. They have their own lives to live too! Thank you for your response to the story – much appreciated.
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