I may have created the characters and the setting but you gave them soul, Cal! Thank you for sharing this story and for doing it for the best reason, for yourself. It's a beautiful and powerful piece.

The majestic lighthouse had stood as she was left, tall, determined, and hollow.

Not only a perfect description for the tone but on its own, this could be a one-sentence story.

Alone now, La Sentinelle's days echo with the whispers of yesterdays gone. The marks etched within her from Hugo's life as her keeper haunting her with the depth of his conviction to prevent anyone else from losing a child to the dangers of the storms.

Still, you give a taste of sweetness to this tale, as though her door was shattered by the waters, life found its way inside. Now the kittiwake's family and the mouse (mice) have made the lighthouse their home. Now La Sentinelle won't have to live with only the memories and silence.