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Stories from the small town of Whisper Gap where one life, one tale invariably reaches out to touch the next. by Jo Janoski.
"Whatever it takes! Get me out of here!" With a shrug, Richie waded across the creek
to the girl, careful of his footing. Within arm's reach, he stretched
out his hand to her. She clasped it with a cold bony grip. Becky was propelled by his strength to her feet. But the persistent mud oozed under her footing, slippery and gooey. It was hopeless. Her feet slid, sending her small body slamming into his. They both tumbled into the cold creek waters. "WHAT'D YOU DO?" he roared, picking himself up. "I didn't mean to knock you down. I slid." "Yeah, now we're both soaked. You're gonna pay for this." A glistening tear rolled down Becky's cheek. "I told you I'm sorry. It's your fault, leading me across the creek in the first place." "You wanna see the cave, don't you?" Before Becky could answer, a rumble of thunder vibrated around them. "Crap! It's gonna rain. We'd better find that cave or we'll get soaked." "Is it far?" The girl was still flushed and hot. "Well, look at the two of you!" The deep resonant voice interrupted their chatter with its authority. A man stood beside them in the water. A giant of a man, bearded and burly, dressed in pale blue faded jeans and a plaid shirt faded even more. His big, hollow belly seemed the perfect source for the tunnel in his voice. "Let me help you." He extended a beefy calloused hand to the startled children. Their mothers had always taught them not to mess with strangers, but without his help they'd be stuck in that creek forever. The kids exchanged glances to cement an unspoken, mutual acceptance of the big man's offer. They all joined hands and the sure-footed fellow walked them to the bank in big solid steps. Richie and Becky collapsed in exhaustion on the soft grass. "Thanks, mister. I didn't think we'd ever get out of there," Richie stated. Studying their benefactor closely, he noted the fiery eyes of the man, telegraphing restless, complex emotions a boy of Richie's tender age could never hope to define. The boy wasn't sure whether to be worried or not. Becky sat quietly, watching the other two speak. "I heard you two talking about the cave. I'll take you there. That's where I live, you know. I was just about to cook up a rabbit for supper. Would you like to join me?" the big man said. to be continued... Copyright 2007 JO Janoski Jo Janoski is a poet, author, and photographer from Pittsburgh, PA. who also writes a blog at Musecrafters. |
Cheshire Cat
Nothin' Better
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Life In The
