Katelin Grudzinski

“The Way Things Have to Be” by Katelin Grudzinski

Submitted to Contest #259

The sun beat down on Indo’s back; hot dust floated around and settled in the air on a slight breeze. The herd of elephants moved slowly, one foot in front of the other. Their destination: the water hole. It had been a long time since Indo had a bath and he was looking forward to the cool water.  A shadow crossed over his head and he peered up into the face of his mother. Her ears flapped a few times and a breeze drifted off of Indo’s face. “It is warm today,” he remarked.  His mother nodded. “We should be at the water hole shortly....

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“Boy Hero” by Katelin Grudzinski

I am not brave. I have never tried out for a sport, given a speech, watched a horror movie, or flown on a plane. I have three locks on every door of my house and triple check them before I go to sleep each night. I look both ways before I cross the street, and then sprint across the crosswalk as fast as my feet will fly. Yesterday my grandmother called. It took me 45 minutes to work up the willpower to call her back. In high school, my friends all asked girls to prom. I wanted to ask Lindsey Profett to go to the dance with me, but I took too...

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“Te Amo, Mi Vida” by Katelin Grudzinski

Submitted to Contest #133

The world seems to be a little bit darker nowadays. Even with the aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends that filled my childhood home, nothing could fix the void that had overtaken my heart. Everything was chaotic and quiet at the same time. Whispered condolences were shared throughout the afternoon. Distant relatives and friendly strangers patted my arms and gave me bony hugs. “I’m sorry for your loss.” “Let me know what I can do for you.” “They were both wonderful people.” The kitchen constantly poured out the beverages of a rush...

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“Brown Eyes” by Katelin Grudzinski

Submitted to Contest #131

I pulled my coat closer around me as a frosty breeze ripped through the night. Snowflakes fell from the overcast sky, kissing the ends of my hair and the tip of my nose. It was just like Murray to ask me to meet him in this weather.  I checked my phone, blinking at the bright screen. Murray had said he would meet me outside of La Coupe Rose, our favorite cafe, ten minutes ago. If he made me wait much longer, I would have to break one of the darkened windows and make myself a latte.  “Lil! Lil, I’m so sorry!” Murray rushed aro...

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“London Boy” by Katelin Grudzinski

Submitted to Contest #128

 My hand shook as I sprinkled another spoonful of sugar into the steaming cup. I went to add another spoonful when Grandmother’s voice stopped me, “Not too much sugar, darling.” “I know Grandmother,” I replied, stuffing the spoon back into the sugar bowl. I placed the teacup on its matching saucer and slowly made my way to the dining room table where Grandmother was sitting. A lace placemat was set before her with a buttered biscuit on a pink plate that matched the cup I brought to her. I set the tea down in front of her plate, caref...

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