fiction - brigits_flame - germinate

[hwango]

As a child, Jack is small for his age, and rarely in good health. More than anything, he wishes to emulate his heroes from the world of professional sports, but he is too weak, too slow, and just plain too little.

One day, after yet another disastrous practice session, the coach finds him hiding behind the bench, weeping pitifully. The coach crouches down beside Jack and shows him a tiny acorn.

“You see this, Jack? Just a tiny seed. But do you see that huge tree over there? Well, with the proper conditions and care, this tiny seed could sprout and someday grow into a huge tree just like that one.”

Jack sniffles. “So you’re saying that maybe someday I’ll grow bigger and stronger, and then I can be on the team?”

“Oh, no. No way. You’ll never make the team. I was suggesting you learn about trees and become an arborist when you grow up.”

Jack cries for days.

Many years later, Jack buys the practice field and converts the land into an orchard. Organized youth sports in the area are unable to survive the loss, and the local teams disband.

Jack’s heart is bitter, but both the fruit and his revenge are deliciously sweet.

Comments

[thorarosebird.livejournal.com]

That took an unexpected turn! I love that you didn't let this become too sentimental or cliche, and surprised the reader at the end. Poor Jack, but good on him for planting some pretty trees. :D

[hwango.livejournal.com]

Yeah, this was pretty much a case of "how can I take the standard sentimental moment and twist it horribly awry?" Plus I got to use the word "arborist," which makes the whole thing worthwhile all on its own.

[thorarosebird.livejournal.com]

:D That is a cool word to use anywhere! Haha!