40 Moments. Romantic Flash Fiction

By Rhonda Hatfield

Here is a collection of 40 moments in time. Some moments are when love is just kindled for the first time. Or at other times, re-kindled. It's about moments and memories when love triumphs. When love transcends. When love shows us who we are as human beings. Some moments will leave you wanting more. And some will leave you thinking about the story long after you have read it.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rhonda Hatfield
• Release date: Mar 2, 2024
• ISBN: 9798223592266

Rhonda Hatfield

Rhonda is passionate about writing and creating books about animals, especially cats and their view of the world we live in.

Book preview

The Titanic

The tremor was subtle at first, a vibration felt more than heard. Rumours that they had struck an iceberg. Amelia gripped the railing on the first-class deck, watching the lifeboats being lowered with growing unease.

Something's wrong, isn't it? a voice said beside her. A young man, his face pale, stood looking out at the growing commotion.

Amelia nodded, her voice tight. I don't know, but it doesn't seem good.

They stood in silence for a moment, the growing shouts and cries painting a picture of chaos.

I... I'm William, the young man offered, extending a hand.

Amelia shook it, her own hand trembling slightly. Amelia.

They say there aren't enough lifeboats, William said, his voice filled with fear.

Amelia forced a smile, the sound hollow even to her own ears. They'll find a way.

He looked at her, his eyes searching hers. What if they don't?

The question hung heavy in the air. Amelia swallowed, unsure of her own answer.

I wouldn't want to face this alone, William said, his voice low and urgent.

Amelia met his gaze, a spark of something unexpected igniting within her. Neither would I, she replied, her voice stronger than before.

As the ship lurched, sending them stumbling, William reached out, his hand finding hers. It was a simple gesture, yet in that moment, it held the weight of a thousand unspoken words.

They stood together, facing the uncertain future, hands clasped, finding solace in a shared moment of fear and hope, a silent promise blooming amidst the chaos.

The Kitten

The crisp autumn air sent leaves swirling around Nate's feet as he walked home from work. He loved the city, but lately, it felt emptier than usual. Spotting a tiny ball of grey huddled in a doorway, he crouched down.

Hey there, little one, Nate whispered, extending a finger. A tiny calico kitten, no bigger than his hand, emerged, shivering.

You're all alone, aren't you? he sighed, scooping her up gently. The kitten purred against his chest, a warm rumble that soothed his loneliness momentarily.

He brought her home, fashioning a makeshift bed and offering her a saucer of milk. What should I call you? he mumbled, stroking her soft fur. Prue, how about Prue?

The next day, Nate took Prue to the vet, his heart clenching at the thought of giving her away. The vet, a kind woman with gentle hands, noticed his hesitation.

She's a sweet one, she said, smiling at Prue. Found her yourself, did you?

Nate nodded. She was just... there.

The vet's smile widened. Maybe she needed you just as much as you needed her.

The following week, Nate found himself at the local park, Prue tucked under his arm. He hesitated at the sight of a woman sketching on a bench, her brow furrowed in concentration.

Excuse me, he began, feeling awkward. I didn't mean to interrupt, but your drawing is amazing.

The woman looked up, surprised. Her eyes widened as they fell on Prue. Oh, hello! And hello there, little one.

Prue, as if on cue, jumped out of Nate's arms and rubbed against the woman's ankles, purring loudly.

She loves attention, Nate chuckled, handing the woman a cat carrier. I was bringing her for a walk, but maybe she prefers yours?

The woman's face broke into a radiant smile. She's adorable! I'm Amelia, and I love cats.

They sat together, chatting about art, life, and Prue's playful antics. As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the park, Nate felt a warmth in his chest he hadn't felt in a long time.

This was lovely, Amelia said, her cheeks flushed. Maybe we could do this again sometime?

Nate's heart did a little flip. I'd like that, he replied, looking into her eyes. Prue wouldn't mind either, I'm sure.

And so, thanks to a tiny calico kitten named Prue, two lonely souls found themselves walking home together, their hands brushing unexpectedly, the promise of friendship, and perhaps something more, blooming in the cool autumn air.

The War

The radio crackled with news of war, the announcer's voice somber and heavy. Rosie sat at her kitchen table, the newspaper spread open, the bold headlines screaming out the world's sudden shift.

Darling, you've hardly touched your breakfast, her mother fretted, setting down a plate of untouched eggs.

I... not really hungry, Ma.

Nonsense, a growing girl needs her strength. Especially now. Her mother looked at her, eyes filled with worry.

I know, but it's hard to eat when the boys down the street could be sent off to fight any day now.

A heavy silence descended upon the room.

You think Tommy will go? Her mother's voice was barely a whisper.

Rosie looked up sharply. I don't know, Ma. I don't want to think about it.

Footsteps echoed on the porch, followed by a hesitant