With relish, rainpour pools in our dead-end dirt road. We, David from across the street and me, sit in that puddle like it’s a lakeside resort. Our little buns caked in mud. Drawers soaked and drooping with glee. Our moms, lounging on aluminum chairs woven with green and blue stripes, pass the time smoking Viceroys and drinking black coffee.
The Perfect Beach
Rain pools in the dirt road as two kids sit barefoot in the puddle.

Loved this piece?
Join the conversation below and share your thoughts — what did this story make you think or feel?
Want to be published in Written Tales?
We publish poetry, flash fiction, short stories, and creative nonfiction from writers around the world.
Paid Members → Submit free as part of your membership
Non-Members → $5 Contribution per submission
Just here to read?
Written Tales is an independent, reader-supported magazine. Your membership keeps authentic voices in print.
Join Written Tales — full archive access, member challenges, and more.
