“Will you just come out, Philip?” Hazel crosses her arms with a huff.
“No.” His voice is squeaky. “I’m too afraid.”
“We’ve been through this. There’s nothing to be afraid of.” She sinks to her knees so she can see him eye-to-eye.
“What if I see it?” His voice trembles but she sees movement from inside the doorway.
“You probably won’t. But even if you do, is it really such a big deal?”
A small furry face pops into view, whiskers twitching. “You sure it’s okay?”
“Just get out here, Phil.”
He steps from his home. Morning sun warms his back and creates a shadow.
“Ack! I told you I’d see it!” He jumps back into his hiding place.
Hazel slumps. “Sorry, buddy. Looks like I won’t be seeing you for another six weeks. Happy Groundhog Day, Punxsutawney Phil.”
©Laura L. Zimmerman 2018
**Author’s note: I wrote 2 versions of this story and waited to hear the real prediction. Check below to see the alternate ending!
Photo by Tj Holowaychuk on Unsplash