The day she left us was hot and dry. Red dust billowed behind the long black car as it rattled down the drive.

I wiped my eyes. "When is Momma coming back?"

"She ain't."

"She's sad is all. She'll come home. She has to." I'd seen Momma crying. It happened sometimes, but she always got back to being happy.

"I'm sorry, darlin."

I ran until my tiny legs buckled and I fell to the ground, watching the hearse disappear.

Daddy trotted up behind me. He lifted me, cradling me in his arms. "Chasing death won't make it go away."

BIO: Kimberly Holt-Whitlock was born and raised in Southern Utah where she currently resides with her three amazing sons. She spends her days chasing children and tapping away on her laptop. When she's not writing she enjoys spending time with her family, golfing, reading, and very occasionally camping.

Visit her online at www.kimberlyholtwhitlock.com