Faded Letter

Faded Letter

Based on a real event in my life, and I'd wager that most people have had something similar happen to them. Those sort of heartaches shape you in ways you never fully understand, but I will say this-- Now that I'm an adult, I'm glad I went back for that letter, and I'm glad I still have it. It's faded, and torn in the corners, but it's a reminder that I'm brave enough to give it my all, whether it be writing, love, or life.


***

Faded Letter


Years ago, I crafted the most beautiful words. I used a fountain pen and fancy linen paper, and for once my heart’s blood mixed splendidly with the ink. I wrote of a boy and his dazzling smile. I wrote to the depths of his soul, and mine.


I wrote of my love for him.


The sheet of paper was carefully folded and slipped into an envelope. I gave it to the boy, and after reading it he tossed it into the trash. People snickered as he walked away, and I realized that those beautiful words I had crafted had failed to win me his dazzling smile. My heart’s blood meant nothing. I wondered if it ever would.


High school.


It’s a bitch.


Faded Letter
Rowan McBride
Orginally published at Gay Flashfiction in June, 2008.
Faded Letter © 2008 by Rowan McBride. All rights reserved. This story may not be reproduced in whole or in part without author's permission.