Sting

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Friday Fictioneers – Fortress Around Your Heart

(Author’s note: The last two weeks have been quite a busy set. A few cases at work really blew up, and the celebration of my dad’s birthday were big. This meant I had to spend more time outside of writing than I did in. But, with things cooling down a bit, I’m back for another week.)

© Sandra Crook

Fortress Around Your Heart

by Miles H. Rost

For many years, Martin had built a defense around himself, constructed of utilitarian thought and his perceptions of the world imposing on him. A defense that would allow him to not be hurt.

Everytime someone got close enough, the walls went into place and he shut them out.

He met Hye Jin, a young widow and a gardener, in the fall. He would do her favors, but if she ever gave him a compliment, he always brushed it aside.

When she finally hugged him from behind, all of the defenses fell in an instant. He finally accepted love and appreciation.

Why not try your hand at it?

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Friday Fictioneers – Windmills Of Your Mind

(Author’s Note: I am doing a little bit better, but won’t be on the full track for a little while. It’s the end of the term at uni! That means…so much fun. There is a possibility I may have to go dark for a week, but I am hoping that will not be the case. Here is today’s Fictioneers!)

 

Photo Prompt © Ted Strutz

Windmills of Your Mind

by Miles H. Rost

“How many applications did you put out this week?” Miguel asked, as he chewed on an apple.
“30 as of Thursday, with 15 more coming up,” Carmen replied.
“And how many do you expect callbacks on?”
“Probably about 5, at best.”
“Why do you do it, Carm?”

Carmen sat back, leaning herself against his leg.

“I think it’s because I want to be useful.”
“But you don’t necessarily have to work to be useful.”

She gave Miguel’s knee a kiss.
“I want to be useful for you. That’s why I do it.”

Miguel just raised his hands and smiled.