For the dverse prompt. 144 words exactly.
The egret picked its way through the reeds to where the open water of the lake began, the stately progression of a Medieval princess dressed in white samite performing some mystery. He shifted his weight; the movement frightened the bird and it launched itself in a shower of droplets into the sky. Envy made her want to weep.
āOh to have that freedom, those white wings.ā
He shrugged. āItās not freedom. Itās just following natureās orders.ā
āSometimes,ā she said, āthe great bones of my life feel so heavy, I could drown in these shallows.ā
He took her hand. She knew what he was going to say, the platitude about how heād always be there to carry her. She pulled her hand away.
āThe shallows call with more passion than Iāve ever heard from you.ā
āI know,ā he said and turned back to the house.