[Stories in mere handfuls of words.]
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Morning Heart Attack
Heart attack on a cold morning. He's on the pavement outside my house, just lying there. The ambulance comes, they load him in, and he, just conscious, nods his thanks to me and my quick 999. Several days later, there's a knock on my door. He's come to thank me personally. As it turns out, he's a skilled entrepreneur who made a small fortune on the property market. He is also a very generous man.
I imagine all this as I walk past, pretending not to notice.
Single Dad
My kid came home sobbing, and asked for a name change. Again. I knew I had to be firm.
"For God's sake Elvis. You can't come home all upset every damn day. If anyone takes the piss, hit 'em in the bleedin' nose. Grow some balls. And Jesus, stop bloody cryin'. You're embarassing yourself."
Sometimes it's hard being a single dad, but I think I've got it sorted. My daughter hates me, but Christ she'll grow up tough.
Fireworks
Fireworks, cheering, dancing. People flood the streets. He asks what's happening, but no-one replies because everyone knows.
But he doesn't. He really doesn't.