NEW YEAR’S EVE

by JoAnn Baca

Three Drabbles

THE FIRST DRABBLE

High above the city streets, a couple wrapped in a voluminous black cloak stood at the parapet of a balcony.

She sighed. “What a lovely last night of December.” Then a thought dampened her mood. I forgot the mistletoe! So much for my big plan.

He felt her emotions, guessing the reason behind them, and murmured, “Imagine the magic a new year brings.”

Suddenly, the city erupted. The sounds of honking horns and voices shouting “Happy New Year!” rose to them.

In celebration, a tawny golden mane bent toward destiny. Lips quivered…then touched at the last stroke of midnight.

* * *

THE SECOND DRABBLE

The clock sounded the countdown:

Bong…
She grasped his hand as they walked into his chamber.
Bong…
He turned to her, a question in his eyes.
Bong…
Her eyes held pleading.
Bong…
His widened in surprise.
Bong…
She tugged at his vest.
Bong…
He bent at her urging.
Bong…
She lifted her face to his.
Bong…
His mind reeled with doubts.
Bong…
She stood on tiptoe, so close he felt her breath.
Bong…
His indecision warred with restraint.
Bong…
Her lips parted with a silent plea.
Bong.
His lips took hers hungrily, ceding his old inhibitions to the old year.

* * *

THE THIRD DRABBLE

“Know what’s resolutions?” Mouse asked Vincent.

“It’s a decision to do something, or not to do something. For instance, some resolve to stop swearing.” He thought about Winslow making that resolution every year…and needing to…every year.

“What’s yours?”

“I haven’t made one.”

“Should.” Mouse nodded firmly.

Intrigued, Vincent asked, “What do you suggest?”

“Marry Catherine.”

Vincent’s eyebrows rose. “You think I should?”

“Everyone does. Mouse asked.”

“Who’s ‘everyone’?”

“Not Father. But everyone else Below. Helpers, too!”

Catherine arrived. She smiled, seeing them together. “Do you know about his ‘resolution’ survey?!”

“I do.”

“I do, too.”

So they did!

* * *