Peace in Love

Inspired by the Boxing with Pencils challenge, these stories must be less than 100 words and include 3 random words.

This Week’s 3 Randomly Generated Words:

Nitwit
Blubber
Tweak

Carla exhaled slowly, screwing the lid back on the jar of blubber. Her shoulders tight with worry. ‘I tweaked the recipe so many times…’ she reminded herself.

Jackie’s warm arms wrapped around her waist from behind. A happy whisper in her ear, “It looks amazing, love.”

Carla leaned back, letting Jackie hold some of her weight. “I want your parents to enjoy their first thanksgiving here.”

“They’d be nitwits not to appreciate your hard work.” Jackie’s deep voice held a rumble of laughter.

A warm peace spread from just behind Clara’s ear where Jackie’s kiss left a hint of chapstick.

After the last (very dark!) piece I wanted to explore a happier note while keeping some tension in the tale. It took a minute to find this story in particular. Ultimately, it came from my own experiences. I remember the nervous excitement I felt when hosting my (ex)in-laws for the first time. I was preoccupied with them enjoying their time there. I tried to think of every detail that would make it a little easier or a little more fun for them. I found out later that they appreciated the thoughtful little touches… but, I also wish I had taken more time to simply enjoy them being there.

~Ari