Walter and Thor III

 150 words, submitted:

Once upon a time, Walter took Thor fetching on the sandbars during winter. 

On the fourth sandbar, the tide turned. 

Eventually Walter asked, “Why are we out here, Thor?” 

Thor barked, at Walter and through the fog towards shore. Walter's gnarled hands patted his soaked jeans. Thor swam back through the tidepool; Walter retrieved Thor's ball and followed. The water, now to Walter's chest, stole his breath; seaweed encumbered him. 

On the third sandbar, Walter sat, huddled. "Where...?" Thor barked and barked, he licked Walter's face and begged. 

On the second sandbar, Walter turned back to sea. He accused Thor of leading him astray. Thor got in Walter's way and barked hoarsely. 

A woman materialized behind them. 

“Dad!” she cried. “Oh, Dad!” 

Walter retreated. “Who are you?” 

She took his hand. 

Back home, Walter had a bath. Thor lay by the fire and watched Eileen pace, whispering into the phone.