I love the encouraging folks at https://carrotranch.com . The head Buckaroo Charli Mills issues a weekly challenge, to write a story in 99 words based on a prompt. This week, I’ve revisited Oma and her lovely neighbors. I hope you’ll enjoy!

 

Fortified Cocoa

Written by Kerry E.B. Black

 

Fragrant steam wafted from the pottery mugs Oma filled. “Have a seat, little dear. Help yourself to a biscuit in that tin.” Mugs made little thumps on the knotty-wooden table while Oma hefted herself into a groaning seat beside Melanie. “Now, what inspired you to shovel my walkway?”

 

In the cloud of cream within the hot cocoa, Melanie saw her mother’s smiling face.

 

“Ah,” said Oma, “you’re Heather’s child. Give your momma my best.”

 

Oma poured a bit of something pungent into her own cocoa.

 

“What’s that, Oma?”

 

“A bit of something to help old Oma through the night.”