“What is that?” Frank asked, pointing. “It’s a xeme,” the bald man said. “Also known as a fork-tailed gull, or Sabine’s gull.” “Is it real?” “Stuffed, of course,” the man said. “It’s about twenty or more years old, I’m really not sure off the top of my head. Came from a retired soldier or something […]
Warrington
“Can you tell me the way to the castle?” The man behind the bar scratched at his moustache and looked at the customer doubtfully. “Why do you want to go there?” the bartender asked. “He’s a crazy old man.” “I’m a journalist,” the man said. “Paul Rossi. I’ve been asked to interview him.” The bartender […]
Marooned
“Where’s the transport, Captain?” “What?” the captain looked up from the viewfinder of her camera and looked over. Puzzled, she said “It’s not there.” “I didn’t hear it, did you?” “No, Private, I didn’t.” They looked at each other for a moment. “So… what do we do now?”
Zero Nine
The clouds lifted a little, and the sun peeped out. Henry and Harriet, snuggling together on the sofa, didn’t notice. Moira continued her knitting. Graeme put down his book and looked up. “It seems to have finally got sunny out there,” he said. “Shall we take those dogs of yours out now?” “All right,” Moira […]
Your Death, Foretold
Michael put the knife and fork down on his plate and looked over the table. Sally was already on her phone, texting. “Is she coming?” he asked. “Yep,” she replied. “Going to be late, though.” “Well, so long as you know where you’re going to meet her.” He stood up, took the plates and placed […]
Xenon
XENON “You put our money into what?” “Xenon,” John replied, grinning, wiping his hand on his paint stained overalls. “What, exactly is xenon? Don’t they make photocopiers?” “It’s a gas,” John said. “Not a photocopier maker.” Shannon sighed, turned round and took off her coat. It was enough to deal with having to try to […]
The Woman In The Water
“It’s hot today,” Megan said. “Hmm,” Eric managed to say, the melting ice cream occupying most of his attention. “It’s quite nice, really.” “You only like hot weather,” she replied. “I’m sure you were a lizard in a former life.” He took his attention away from the ice cream and flicked his tongue at Megan, […]
Veronica
Mitch first saw her at the hotel bar. She was a little shorter than him, maybe early twenties, short bobbed dyed blond hair, miniskirt, black high heels and legs that brought out the animal in him. Hello, he thought, the wife’s away, and when the cat’s away, the mice will play, right? He summoned the […]
Underground Supporters
Max’s watch pinged, and the screen of his phone lit up. He groggily reached over and held up the phone to look at the screen. MAIL: 1m ago Government Social Media Team Dear Max, It is our sad duty to report that this month your grade has dropped one level to grade D. This is […]
Trees Looking At Me
“The trees are looking at me again,” Kyra said, playing with her hair. “They do that, mummy, when they think you’re not looking.” “Don’t be silly,” her mother said. “If I hear you say that again, I’ll have to be cross with you. Now go and play with your dolls.” “I can’t,” she sighed, still […]