This wasn't where he belonged. He was comfortable in town, in the narrow, dirty streets and rundown boarding houses. He liked to be among people, even though he despised them. He felt comfort in the crowd. But he had to escape. He could feel the darkness descending again. The need. He wanted to resist it. … Continue reading THE DARKNESS
'You never listen.' Glisten. The sun dancing on the water. 'You're never there.' Dare. The cold water round his ankles. 'I've been having an affair.' Stare. A line of rocks breaking the water in the distance. 'The children will stay with me.' Free. His body weightless in the water. 'I want you out.' Doubt. Arms … Continue reading GLISTENING WAVES
He picked her up, holding her close, feeling her warm soft hair against his cheek. She was light as a feather, his little bundle of joy. He swirled her round the wooden circle, a stage for their bond. He heard that infectious laugh that could not be resisted. He saw the cheeky glint in her … Continue reading DAUGHTER
Can you hold up a mirror to yourself and say that you are entirely innocent? That you are not in some way to blame? That was the thought that had brought Dominic out onto the street. He hadn't been the one shouting, taunting, calling her the names: 'Fatty', 'Chunk', 'Porky.' He hadn't laughed while watching … Continue reading MIRROR, MIRROR
She deserved this. Work could be put on the back burner for a couple of weeks. The children were with her parents. The tail end of summer was just warm enough to wear a sleeveless top and a short skirt, while around her the countryside was turning from lush green to golden yellow and orange. … Continue reading A SENSE OF CALM
