Good Boy, Charlie

Even the dog knew it was a mistake. So much had happened at the lake house, and yet, nothing ever changed. Her father stood at the end of the dock, slouching.

Charlie whined and wagged, as if to say, “Really? Again?!”

“Didn’t think you’d come,” he said.

“I just want her ashes. Then I’ll leave.”

He stared, eyes piercing, his face sharp.

“Your mother wanted to be here.”

“My mother wanted to be safe.”

Jayne released Charlie from his leash. He burst forward, sending her father off the dock.

“Good boy,” Jayne praised Charlie, wiping the water from her face.

From Guest Contributor Kate McGovern