The letter C brings the third of 26 short stories – 250 words
or fewer - about Alice.
Charles was the eldest child in the family and took his
responsibilities seriously. From an early age his parents had exhorted him to be
a good example to his brothers and it was a natural extension of this that he
should look after Alice. He pushed her in her pram, negotiating kerbs with care
and ensuring that no draughts chilled her. His friends often accompanied them and
so, from an early age, Alice had many surrogate brothers.
Charles hoped to become a teacher and enjoyed reading to his
little sister and playing with her. She couldn’t pronounce his name and called
him Dars. The name stuck and before long it was difficult to remember a time
when he had not been Dars.
Charles was nineteen the summer that Alice was five. When he
arrived home from college she rushed towards him. ‘Dars, Dars,’ she cried and screamed
with delight as he swept her up and swung her round.
During the long, hot days the boys took her into the
countryside to fish and swim. As soon as she tired a strong pair of arms scooped
her up and let her ride on broad shoulders. She favoured Charles to carry her
because he was the tallest and she liked being up high. At other times Daniel
and Edward would link hands to make a chair for her and swing her along between
them. They sang as they walked and her musical voice made a pretty counterpoint
to their deeper tones.
22 comments:
This is absolutely delightful so far.
No doubt darker times are on the horizon, but while Alice's story is idyllic, I'll enjoy her progress through childhood.
Thank you very much for your kind comment on my blog.
What a sweet story! It reminds me of myself and my little brother, since he is 16 years younger than me. My name is Nikki, but ever since he learned to talk he (and now most of my family and some friends) called me ''kiki'' since he couldn't pronounce it.
I loved this post :)
Nikki – inspire nordic
Awww, that is a sweet story. We sure do want to know what happens next. My hooman big sister couldn't say her brothers name Christopher, she called him Cuddlefer or Kisstifer :)xx
You are creating quite a nice cast of characters here....I am truly enjoying this. Still waiting for what is going to happen now that it is 1939! Write on.
What a lovely story. It's coming along so nicely.
What a lovely picture you've painted.
Alice is truly coming alive.
--Damyanti, Co-host A to Z Challenge April 2012
Twitter: @AprilA2Z
#atozchallenge
I've dropped into the middle of your story, but I'm enjoying it. Thanks for visiting the Write Game. Hope to see you again.
Lovely imagery. I could picture him swinging him in his arms.
I love this. Close, loving family is so dear and precious.
Charles sounds like a really nice guy. I'm guessing we'll learn about Daniel and Edward next.
Very nice story! I am going to follow you now, and I am looking forward to seeing what you have in store for tomorrow!
I am so enthralled with this story. Cant wait for tomorrow.
Shaun
Valleys ShutterBug
What a lovely story! I enjoyed reading it very much Janice, thank you.
What a lovely story. Can't wait to read more.
Thanks for visiting QRSTUV...I will be back to read through A-Z here.
What a sweet lovely story! Want to read more!
What images you created with your words. Can't wait to read more.
Alice was fortunate to have such lovely brothers. I fear the war that is coming.
I find my oldest has some of the same characteristics as Charles! Responsible always in his role of oldest sibling!
Hugs~
Alice is very lucky to have three brothers who love her.
Being a first born I can understand Charles and Alice's connection.
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