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Wrapped in my warmest coat, a woolly scarf around my neck, I wished my colleagues farewell and headed off into the wrath of a winter’s night.
The freezing wind assaulted me, and a shower of hail struck my cheeks like a thousand icy needles. A car’s headlights blinded me as a frustrated driver honked his horn. My heart missed a beat. Noise, hail, light, dazzling light. If I wasn’t awake, it would be a nightmare.
Two more corners and the bridge would be in sight. As I crossed the river, the street light beside my cottage would glow like a beacon, drawing me home. A few steps more, then I’d be safe. Safe from the hostile world that surrounded me.
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The door closed behind me, and for a moment or two I stood in the hallway, my eyes closed. It was warm. It smelt lovely. It was quiet. It was good.
As I sank into my chair, a log hissed and crackled in the hearth, and the flames that embraced it sent an orange glow around the room. My shadow flickered upon the wall like a faithful best friend. Drawing my legs up beneath me, I hugged my favourite cushion.
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Two worlds. One beyond the curtains, chilling, harsh and forbidding. One within, welcoming, snug and cosseting.
The End
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Thanks to Sadje for hosting What Do You See?
Image credit: Johannes Bek @ Pexals
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Ooh, this is nice and cozy ☺️
Eventually! Thanks so much, Nancy.
How I love the description Keith! I could feel the warmth of the hearth, witness the treacherous drive and embrace the comfort that waited at home. 🙂
I’m pleased it had the desired effect, thanks so much.
I LOVE what you saw in this image and beautifully expressed. Love the crackling fire animated image. Perfect!
Thanks, Suzette, I felt it needed that fire!
Excellent idea, Keith!
What a lovely little story. Nice one, Keith!
That’s kind of you, Chris, thanks so much.
Lovely. I experience the same thing when I walk 80 feet to my mailbox in the winter, and then walk 80 feet back.
Thanks, Denise. You think you have a problem, have to walk 90 feet!
Lovely Keith. The coziness is welcoming.
It sure is, Di!
Keith that ending did indeed feel like a big warm hug 🤗 ♥️
Great contrast between ice and fire.
I felt this one, Keith. Especially knowing it’s in the not-too-distant future. (Not today, though! It is a balmy 19C!)
ah, the comforts of home
Excellent take Keith. Two worlds separated by a wall. Thanks for joining in.