My Short Short for the Day

“We have to go find her!” Max jerked his arm away from Cole's grip. “She needs us!”

“No! She said to wait here and that's what we'll do.” Cole stood facing Max.

“Fine! But I won't wait much longer.” Max slammed his fist on the nearest branch.

The sun gradually faded into orange and red streaks, sinking down below the hills. A chill seeped into the air and the turtles that had been resting on a nearby tree slipped into the warmth of the pond. The frogs came out to croak their song and the woodland critters settled in for a rest.

A twig snapped a few yards away and Cole's eyes darted, piercing the darkness. Silence returned. Cole touched Max's arm and he jerked awake.

“What? What's happening?” Max started to rise but Cole restrained him.

“Quiet. Don't move.” Cole was looking into the distance searching, scanning.

A bird called gently into the night, not far from their spot. A mourning dove. Soft, sad.

“It's her.” Cole said answering her call.

Jen walked into the clearing. “I've got it.”

“You're safe.” Cole greeted her with a hand clasp.

Max pushed him aside and gave her a bear hug. “You scared me Sis! What took so long?”

“Well, it takes a little time to find and steal this.” Jen held out the glowing orb, bathing her in its glittering light.

“Good work Jen. We need to go now.” Cole moved into the darkness of the forest.

“It's good to have you back.” Max said patting her shoulder.

“Glad to be back.” Jen smiled swiftly gliding into the darkness behind Cole.