At the end

Photo by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields

At the end

Shivering, she stands ready – so young, but her eyes fixed on her goal. Then a signal and she’s off.

I’m in the next lane. I’ve finished my lap and linger to catch my breath and watch. 

“Hi,” I greet her as she surfaces. “You did well.”

“It was my first time to do the whole length,” she pants. 

I smile encouragement then struggle out, ignoring the disapproval on my grandson’s face as he helps me into my chair and hands me my oxygen mask.

“I know,” I pacify him, gasping now. “I just needed to do it one last time.”

*****

This is my contribution to Friday Fictioneers, a weekly flash fiction link-up hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields. Thanks to Rochelle for this week’s photo prompt, as well.