Stories Around the Globe

Locked Love (leandralynx) Translation

Profile name: leandralynx

Genre: Fiction

Language: German

Country: Germany

Title: Locked Love (Translation)

In my elementary school years, my way led me over a bridge. I didn't like it because in summer, the heat was hardly to bear, and in winter... No, seriously! Before and after that bridge, temperature was quite enjoyable, and the wind more mild. Yet, I couldn't help, but take a break on the bridge. Every morning. The teachers would complain anyway. So why not spending a few minutes and admiring the locks? One lock. Two names. Or just initials. No remarkable shape. No precious metal. Just a "+" glistening in the still sleepy sun. I rubbed my eyes and yawned.

Once, my brother had gotten a broken lock as present. Hours had passed, until he had given up trying to close it. Well, I must add, he's younger than me. And even if I could never share his enthusiasm, this particular lock had picked my interest. Despite my brother's protest – and with dad's approval – I had taken it and looked more closely. The text had been too long and... not to grasp. Soon after, I had returned to my trading cards.

Of course, I got no clue what all of this could mean, but I had a patient mother who would explain anything with a smile.

"Mom, why would people hang locks with names on a bridge?"

And she asked me: "Why do people write their names into a tree?"

"You mean, like in the movies? " She nodded.

Today, my way leads me over the same bridge. Not daily anymore, but often. And each time, I stop to look at the locks. My parents would blame me anyway. So why not allowing myself to stroll and dream of a lock with my name? I thought back of my notes that must be laying on the kitchen table – and read! My cheeks turned as red as my scarf. If I went home now, two grinning faces would greet me. "So, you finally got a boyfriend, eh?"