This is a piece of Flash Fiction I wrote for a challenge--complete story in 1000 words or less. Let me know what you think. 

LITTLE ONE

Shh, Little One, don’t cry. Momma’s here, everything’s okay. Hush little baby, don’t say a word, Momma’s gonna get you a Mockingbird.

Your tiny fists are clenched tight against the world. My heart melts when you grab my fingers with those tiny hands.

How many times have I’ve counted your ten perfect fingers, your tiny, perfect little toes? And I’ll keep counting them, every day, because you are finally here.

You’re my little one.

Shh, Little One, go to sleep.

Hi, Little One, it’s just one step.

You’ve been trying so hard, you don’t even realize that you can walk. I’ve been watching you try.. You take a step, sometimes two, before you panic, give up, and fall. But I know you can do it.

Reach out, I’m here. Take my hand. Yes, I’ll let go, but I’ll catch you if you fall.

See? You did it!

Look at you, you’re walking. What’s that glistening sparkle just below my eyes? It’s just me, showing how proud I am of you, that’s all.

No, Little One, don’t put that in your mouth. That’s a toy, and we don’t eat it. I know it’s bright and colorful, but—no, it really doesn’t belong in your mouth.

Slow down, Little One, you’re running too fast! Oh, down you go. You’re okay, just surprised. Come here, Momma will cuddle you. I’ll kiss your knee. Doesn’t that feel better?

No, stay here in my arms just a minute longer. Oh, okay, go ahead and play.

I’ll be here when you’re tired.

It’s okay, Little One, it’s kindergarden.

You’re big enough to go to school now. I’ll be right here when class is over, and we can walk home. You’ll tell me all about the wonderful things you learned. Won’t that be fun? Look, there’s your friend, waiting for you.

Good-bye, Little One, see you after school.

Thank you for wiping that tear from my cheek, Little One. I’ll be okay, it’s just some dust that got in my eyes.

Well, Little One, you’re eight years old now.

I’m sorry, but you’ll always be my Little One, that’s just the way it is. No, I’m not laughing, I promise. You’re awesome. Look how tall you’re getting. You’re growing so fast.

What’s that? A slumber party? Well, okay, I guess you’re old enough No, I promise not to embarrass you. Not too much, anyway.

No, I’m not crying, it’s just allergies.

So, Little One, you’re a teen-ager.

I’m not sure you need to wear make-up just yet, but I guess we can practice a bit. My, you look so grown-up. You’re not a little girl any more, you’re turning into quite a beautiful young woman.

Yes, he’s cute, but you’re still a little bit young yet to act on those feelings. But I’m always here for you to talk to, just remember that.

Sorry, yes, that’s a tear. You’re just growing up so fast.

Little One, you’re sixteen. I guess we’ll go get your driver’s license tomorrow.

He asked you on a date? Well, let’s talk about it. It’s a double date? Do I know his parents? Oh, he’s their boy? That’s fine then. Have a good time. Don’t be out too late, okay?

No, I’m not crying, I just have a runny nose.

You’re not wearing that dress to prom, Little One, not without some alterations.

What’s wrong with it? You know what’s wrong. It’s strapless, low-cut, too short. All of the things we’ve talked about. Why are you stomping around? You know the rules. Okay, that’s it, we’re going home. We’ll come back when you’ve calmed down.

Yes, I’m crying. It’s either that or scream, right here in the store.

Oh, Little One, your last day in high school.

Where has the time gone? You’re eighteen, heading for college. Wasn’t it just yesterday that I rocked you to sleep?

Thank you for the tissue, I hadn’t even noticed I needed it.

Little One, you are so beautiful in that wedding dress.

He’s a fine man, and I’m sure you’ll make each other happy. Remember, marriage is all about give and take, okay? Oh, yeah, sorry. I know I told you I wouldn’t give you advice today, but I’m your mom; it’s allowed. This embroidered handkerchief is the perfect memento of your wedding day, I’ll treasure it always.

After I’ve washed it, of course, because it’s already gotten a lot of use today.

You’re going to be a mother, Little One?

A baby of your own. And I’m going to be a grandmother. It’s a girl? How wonderful. I can’t wait to meet her.

Oh, stop it. You know I’m going to cry. I can’t help it if I snort when I laugh and cry at the same time.

She’s beautiful, Little One, she looks just like you.

You’ll be a wonderful mother. Those tears won’t stain the blanket, just throw it in the washer.

The doctor said he tried everything, Little One, but there’s nothing he can do for you.

It won’t be long now. I wish I could rock you like I did when you were young. I love you, Little One, did I ever tell you that?

Hush, Little One, Momma’s gone to heaven but Grandma’s here.

I know she’s sorry she can’t be with you, but she loved you very much. Hush little baby, don’t say a word, Grandma’s gonna get you a Mockingbird.

Your tiny fists are clenched tight against the world. My heart melts when you grab my fingers with those tiny hands. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve counted your ten perfect fingers, your tiny, perfect little toes. And I’ll keep counting them, every day, because I you are finally here.

Hush, little one, go to sleep.

You’re my Little One’s little one.