[This story was submitted for the September 2023 Globe Soup monthly micro contest. It was selected as the Winner, Judges’ Pick out of over 250 entries. Contestants had to write a story of 100 words or less related to the theme of: Nature.]

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Early morning sunlight filters through tangerine-colored maple leaves, warming my face. I rest my head on Papaw’s steadfast shoulder. Chickadees and warblers serenade the forest with their reveille. I drift into a soft slumber. 

Crack.

A snapping twig lurches me awake.  

“There,” Papaw whispers. “This is your chance kiddo, take the shot.”

The buck freezes, head lowered, and sniffs our scent. He raises his majestic antlers to meet my stare. I search his amber eyes for signs of weakness and find only valor.

Steady hands. Exhale. Press the shutter.

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Copyright © Jamie Gregory 2023