Bit by Bit

A short story in bits and pieces...

MOTHER'S LIGHTHOUSE

A nor’easter brewed outside. The rickety pier groaned under assault from waves slamming

ashore as wind battered loose shutters, and rain pelted a tin roof. Rat-a-tat tat. Rat-a-tat tat. Jordy, rotund with a ruddy face, leaned forward admonishing his newest employee. “Stay from up around that lighthouse, lassie. A traveler went missing recently.”

Zel and his friend sat at a table listening attentively to a rumor they’d heard Jordy tattle before.

“Never been so afraid in my life.” Waitress’s eyes widened. “Did they find him?”

“Her. Not hide nor hair.”

Gripping her tray, liquid sloshed as glasses rattled together. “What happened?”

“No one knows.” Barkeep shook his head. “That poor family. So many trials and tribulations in their lives. Especially the daughter, Rappy. She lived there with her mom. Heard she possessed outrageously long, golden hair.” Jordy’s voice lowered. “Relegated to a wheelchair, she never came out.”

“Lived? You never saw her?”

“No. No one visited the point.” Jordy heaved a sigh. “Met the mother once...

(to be continued) 

What happened to the girl?
What did the mother tell Jordy?
Is Rappy's hair really long--is she alive?

Stay tuned for the next installment.

Growl and roar-it's okay to let the beast out. - J. Hali Steele