WINDOWS TO THE PAST: Young Adult Short Stories

By Rachel Jamerson

A RAINY NIGHT IN SOUTH FLORIDA. The rain pelted Mira with fury as she struggled against the angry wind. It was the worst storm to hit South Florida in several years, but Mira's thoughts were not on the raging storm. Had it only been six years since that night? That awful sound of screaming tires and the crunch of metal as the car she was riding in slammed into the rear of the tractor-trailer. She was only ten when it happened but could still hear the sound of her screams as her mother's blood-soaked through the white cotton dress.she was wearing Mira became a ward of the state that fateful night, just another number in the foster care system. THE LONG JOURNEY HOME - Sally sat motionless, staring out the window. Red and gold leaves danced in the wake of the bus as it sped along the highway. A burgundy stocking cap pulled low over her face all but hid her blonde hair. Fall was Sally's favorite time of year, but today she wasn't thinking about the beauty of the countryside. How could things change so completely in such a short time? A tear spilled over and ran down her cheek. Her thoughts took her back in time to a different bus ride, just six weeks earlier.BELL MANSION DRAGON - Kate's heart beat faster as she approached the house. The old elm tree still stood tall and defiant against the cloudless sky. She had taken refuge there many times underneath the canopy of leaves. Her knees became weak as she saw the figure seated in the shadows For years she had reminded herself every day of how much she despised John Bly. He was an evil man who seemed to take pleasure in causing others grief. However, what she saw today was a wasted, bitter, individual who could not possibly understand her reason for being there. The weeks ahead would reveal some startling secrets about Bell Mansion and Kate's connection to Mr. Bly.STRANGE BEACH-COMBER - I was about to open my book when a movement in the corner of my eye captured my attention. It was a young girl, perhaps ten or so, she sat cross-legged at the edge of the water. Her long dark hair was pulled back into a ponytail but small wisps fluttered around her face. She seemed very intent on what she held in her hand. A few moments later she reached for her small sand bucket and dropped her item inside. I was lost in the tranquil scene having no idea what was going on in her mind. However, what she was doing was a secret she shared with her grandmother. A secret I would also learn later on after she suffered a tragedy. FAMILY TRADITIONS - The old cabin was still standing. Not much to look at, just a small rectangle about 26' x 26'. There were two rooms down and another two upstairs. The walls were covered with old newspapers. A little creek ran alongside the cabin and it would get very cold at night. The cracks in the cabin wall let in the cold air so grandmother would paper the walls with newspapers. She was resourceful always finding a way to accomplish what was needed. I think some of that spilled over on me. My brother and I lived here with my grandmother, Abbey. She could be very 'contrary' at times, as Aunt Mary put it. Yet she taught us to recognize and enjoy the real treasures of life. I wrapped my scarf tighter around my neck and started back down the road. Leaving made me sad. Soon there would be no signs left of grandmother's way of life. History of a time my children and grandchildren would never know. Our world is ever changing but family traditions help keep the memories alive.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1728965403
• ISBN13: 9781728965406
• Release Date: October 2018
• Publisher: Independently published
• Length: 136 Pages
• Weight: 0.57 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.3" x 6.0"