Just me

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I’m on my own. Just me, with a shadow for company.

I needed some time alone. I needed to get away. Away from noise, away from crowds. Away. 

The sky is clear, it’s blue, not a cloud to be seen. The ground beneath my feet glistens, it’s white, it’s pure.

So peaceful. The only sound is a crunch and a crunch as I take step after step in the virgin snow. 

All of a sudden, a vague figure appears. It strides towards me, closer, and closer still. It wears a hooded cloak and carries a wooden staff. 

As it nears me I squint in the blinding sunlight. I’m unable to make out its face. All I see is a hollow void.

As we pass I nod my head, but it’s as if it doesn’t see me. I look over my shoulder. It has no shadow, it leaves not a footprint in the snow.

For but a second, an icy gust of wind stings my face. I squeeze closed my eyes. When I open them, it’s gone, it’s nowhere to be seen.

I’m on my own. Just me, with a shadow for company.

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Thanks to Sadje for hosting What Do You See?

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Image credit; Moostapper Pixabay

29 thoughts on “Just me

  1. Sadje's avatar Sadje February 19, 2024 / 14:50

    Oh! This is so intriguing Keith. Many mysteries here. Thanks for joining in my friend

    • Keith's Ramblings's avatar Keith's Ramblings February 20, 2024 / 16:31

      My pleasure, thanks for the interesting prompt, Sadje.

      • Sadje's avatar Sadje February 21, 2024 / 00:39

        Thanks 🙏🏼

  2. Mason Bushell's avatar Mason Bushell February 19, 2024 / 15:01

    I think he just had a near death experience. I feel his desperation to escape. A beautifully written piece, Keith. Well done.

    • Keith's Ramblings's avatar Keith's Ramblings February 20, 2024 / 17:18

      That’s certainly one possibility, Mason. Thanks for dropping by.

      • Mason Bushell's avatar Mason Bushell February 20, 2024 / 17:20

        You’re welcome.

  3. Dale's avatar Dale February 19, 2024 / 15:43

    Oooh…. Nicely done. I like to think he was NOT chosen to join the dark side.

    • Keith's Ramblings's avatar Keith's Ramblings February 20, 2024 / 17:29

      As he was ignored, it seems unlikely. But then again…

      • Dale's avatar Dale February 20, 2024 / 17:34

        It’s just that … then again… thing!

  4. dorahak's avatar dorahak February 19, 2024 / 17:41

    Mysterious, and beautifully written, Keith.

    • Keith's Ramblings's avatar Keith's Ramblings February 20, 2024 / 17:32

      I’m pleased you found it so. Thank you so much.

  5. beth's avatar beth February 19, 2024 / 19:33

    shadows make good company, if only temporary

  6. GirlieOnTheEdge's avatar GirlieOnTheEdge February 19, 2024 / 21:28

    Your MC has been given a reprieve! Well executed, Keith.

  7. Anita's avatar Anita February 20, 2024 / 04:50

    So well said.

    We are alone with our thoughts, shadows & footsteps.

    During the day, the sun gives us company too, Keith:)

  8. Chris Hall's avatar Chris Hall February 21, 2024 / 13:04

    Very nicely done, Keith!

  9. ben Alexander's avatar ben Alexander February 26, 2024 / 12:35

    This story has such a mysterious and captivating vibe! It’s like stepping into a scene from a thrilling novel. The imagery of solitude and encountering a mysterious figure adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. I felt like I was right there with you, experiencing the eerie encounter. Awesome storytelling!

    ~David

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