Ella's Joy

Ella sits with her fingers interlocking, waiting for her granddaughter’s weekly visit. As Riley enters, Ella says, "Hurry, child. There is little time." Riley asks, “Little time for what?” Ella sways back and forth, waiting to hear a story. Riley, a writer, scrunches her nose from the whiff of strong ammonia in Ella's room. “How often are they changing the bedpans in this place?” she asks. A short time later, a chime prompts Riley to scan her phone.

Ella appears to write a sad story in her head.

“Sorry, I have to go.” Riley stands to her feet, leans over, and lands a smooch on Ella's soft cheek. During the morning rounds the next day, an aide finds Ella lifeless with Riley's book lying across her chest. Riley learns, too late, that Ella's joy came with the only condition she failed to give.

About Bree

Bree Jackson is an author with more than two decades of experience in Christian publishing. Bree holds a BA in Management & Human Relations, and a MA in English and Creative Writing. Her passion lies in the production of media that elevates the human spirit. To explore more, visit www.breejackson.org.