I am an artifact marble from the Ozarks, property of the Bluff-Dwellers. (This information was provided by Madison Woods and the Marble, Herself).
The little stone sat on the table, taking in the drab room. She had been a plaything before, a marble.
Now, humanity was austere and busy – no time for frivolous games.
She missed the caress of a child’s hand, the banging echo of a crowded marbles pouch. She missed the thrill of rolling across packed earth in a race of precision.
When the little boy rushed in, she hoped, and when he threw his backpack into her, she was knocked to the floor. She zoomed then, unnoticed, through the still-open door and bounced down the steps.
She was free.
For more stories prompted by this image, visit Madison Woods and explore the rest of the Friday Fictioneers!
The Color Lime 
Hey, that was really cute. Just long enough to convey a sense of longing and to make you wonder.
The hundred word thing is tough — I think this was the most trouble I’ve had with it, but I’m glad it worked for you! Thanks for reading.
That was great! Very poignant and a great ending.
Great evocation from the marble’s point of you. Novel and charming at the same time. My only objection is the sweaty pouch, as marbles are wonderfully smooth, but noisy….
I agree with you. Changed. Thanks for the thought. Also, I had an extra word, so I used it 🙂
Good descriptions and interesting point of view.
Never thought of telling the story from the marble’s perspective. And what a truth you’ve pointed out about the ‘busy-ness’ of our society these days!
I liked the contrast of the past with the present and how freedom was a roll out the door. Nicely done. 🙂
Thanks so much — I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Poor little marble… You really made me feel sorry for it!
Oh good! Although she’s free at the end, so you can feel happy for her, now.
Awwww the poor marble! I can almost feel its pain! Poor thing! Now I’ll never
look at a marble the same way again. 😉
Fun story!
Hey Lime,
Very well done. I like that you gave the stone life, for, as you know, I believe they live as we do.
I have a feeling that the boy will find her again after he’s gotten tired of his Playstation. In the meantime, the stone has a new view of the outside. They’re very patient.
Yours,
Doug
Thanks, Doug! I’m also glad you think that about the boy. I think he will, too.
Hee! I loved how you told the story from the marble’s point of view. And I love the end of it — instead of feeling sad, the marble feels free. Marbles, after all, rock and roll, since they’re round!
This put a smile on my face. 🙂
Excellent, smiling is good!
So free to trip the unsuspecting who expect something flat under their feet…love that I know this will happen!
Fun, nice transition from austere to mischievous, Robin