The Vale of Rest, by MJ Malleck

The Vale of Rest, by John Everett Millais (England) 1858-1859

The Vale of Rest
 
You’ve come then, though we weren’t expecting you.
It seemed right, to come and ask forgiveness.
You seek in the wrong place. 
I’ve given my confession, Sister. I’m sure of His grace. It’s her that I need to speak to.
She’s not here.
Aye. But she’s not where she should be, is she, Sister?.
Just a few feet away. Before the sun is set, she’ll be at peace.
I’d do more than move her sister, to be sure.
The Holy Water in this vial, the words Father would have spoken. She’ll have a proper burial.
She haunts me, Sister. 
The mind of a murderer must be a maelstrom. The peace of the Lord be with you.
In spirit, not in mind. 
There I see sheet now, Eileen, take care with the spade.
Let me lift her out, for you, I’ll carry her.
Over the steps, beyond the hedge, is her proper resting place.
Vera, vera, I didn’t mean to, I never wanted, you must.
God help us. Eileen, get Father, quick, I’ve not enough Holy Water for two.

MJ Malleck

MJ Malleck is a Canadian writer who grew up on the US border. In 2024 she won the Flash Fiction contest at gritLIT and came second place in Geist's annual Postcard contest.