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Flash Fiction – The Christmas Tree

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Hugh W. Roberts

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Flash Fiction – The Christmas Tree

“Are you sure this is what you want to see?” said Michelle as she struggled to hold back the tears.

Her daughter nodded. “Don’t cry, Mummy. Look at the tree. It’s beautiful, isn’t it? You know how much I love Christmas.”

Choked, Michelle could not answer her young daughter’s question. The tears in her eyes made the lights on the Christmas tree blur into one another. Warm on her cold cheeks, they trickled towards the scarf her daughter had gifted her last Christmas.

Standing together, holding hands, Michelle made a Christmas wish that would prove the doctors’ predicament regarding her daughter’s upcoming journey into the darkness due to blindness untrue.

High up, in the skies above the Christmas tree, a shooting star ferried the wish away.

“Merry Christmas, Mummy. I love Christmas, but not as much as I love you.”

Image of a Christmas tree with a shooting star above it.
A Christmas tree that grants wishes.

Written for Esther Chilton’s writing prompt – Christmas.

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42 responses to “Flash Fiction – The Christmas Tree”

  1. Story Chat Digest Summary #1 “He Never Saw It Coming” by Amanda Forestwood – Marsha Ingrao – Always Write avatar
    Story Chat Digest Summary #1 “He Never Saw It Coming” by Amanda Forestwood – Marsha Ingrao – Always Write

    […] Hugh’s Views and News: “The dialogue in this story made me feel as though I were sitting at the table, my mouth agape in amazement at what was being asked. However, when I read one of Marsha’s questions – What is the point of view, setting, and time period? – I concluded it was set in the 1970s, a time when it hardly mattered what was said to whom and whether someone might be sacked or not considered for promotion because of age, race, or sexual orientation. Fast forward to 2025, and Henri could well have a claim for unfairness in not receiving the promotion, although given his question, I think his chances of winning are smaller. Certainly, in the 1970s, ’80s, and early ’90s, work dinners or parties involved the drinking of lots of alcohol, and things being said or done that in the present could end you or your company in court. However, even today, some people still live their lives like the 1970s or 80s, so maybe the time setting is not so long ago. The attitude towards women (and other groups) back in the 1970s and 80s was very different from what it is today.” […]

    Reply
  2. Marsha avatar
    Marsha

    This story is brilliantly done, Hugh. It is amazing that you can weave such an intricate tale in just 99 words. I love how you brought us in emotionally. You have an amazing imagination. :) xxxx

    Reply
    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar
      Hugh W. Roberts

      Thank you, Marsha. I’m glad you think so. Sometimes, stories like these come to me instantly, and I pat myself on the back for publishing them.

      Reply
      1. Marsha avatar
        Marsha

        I don’t think I’m a natural like that. I sweat blood over stories. Poetry, not so much, but as I prepare to publish a book of poetry, I’m doing more editing revisions than I expected. :)

        Reply
        1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar
          Hugh W. Roberts

          I always find editing the boring bit. But it’s vital.

          Reply
          1. Marsha avatar
            Marsha

            I get tired!

            Reply
  3. Did You Miss Any Of These? Monthly Round-Up - December 2024 avatar
    Did You Miss Any Of These? Monthly Round-Up – December 2024

    […] Flash Fiction – The Christmas Tree […]

    Reply
  4. Jennie avatar
    Jennie

    Lovely story!

    Reply
  5. V.M.Sang avatar
    V.M.Sang

    That’s a lovely story.

    Reply
    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar
      Hugh W. Roberts

      Thank you.

      Reply
  6. Eugi avatar
    Eugi

    A beautifully written and tender story, Hugh. It brought tears to my eyes and shows we should be grateful for things we take for granted.

    Reply
    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar
      Hugh W. Roberts

      Absolutely, Eugi. I’m glad the emotion came through the story. Thank you for your lovely feedback.

      Reply
      1. Eugi avatar
        Eugi

        You’re welcome, Hugh.

        Reply
  7. Dave Williams avatar
    Dave Williams

    You packed powerful emotions in this short tale. Well done! Here’s hoping the Christmas wish comes true 🎄

    Reply
    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar
      Hugh W. Roberts

      Thanks, Dave. I’m glad the emotions shone through.

      Reply
  8. Suzanne avatar
    Suzanne

    A touching story, Hugh. Highlighting the importance of sharing those special moments and love. Starry nights for me are always thought provoking.

    Reply
    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar
      Hugh W. Roberts

      Thank you, Suzanne. I also love starry nights and spending time looking up and wondering.

      Reply

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