Earl carefully folded his newspaper.
“We could do it today, Ethel.”
Ethel, absorbed in the local morning television news didn’t acknowledge Earl.
Louder: “ETHEL, WE COULD DO IT TODAY.”
Ethel turned slightly towards Earl, “I’ll play along, why today?”
“Why not, Ethel. It’s a wonderous day: birds singing; butterflies in the garden; scent of flower, grass, and pine. Just perfect.”
Ethel turned her back on Earl; she had lusty dreams about the news anchor on Channel 2.
“But, Ethel, we all have to do it someday.” Earl’s face was pushed in like a pug in disappointment.
His train to the city left in 1/2 an hour later than Ethel’s. So he gave her the usual quick kiss and hug good bye, waving as she headed to her car. Pretending nothing had been said.
Earl was playing hooky. Retrieved his carefully pre-packed bag from it’s hiding place. He always knew Ethel wouldn’t go with him.
He smiled as he locked the door for the last time. Hummed as he slammed the gate behind him.
Turned left on Elm, right on Oak, then on to the railway. Only 10 miles to Heaven, the signpost read. Really not too far to walk on such a wonderous day.
Inspired by Mindlovemisery’s Menagerie Photo Prompt 40
What an interesting story…was not sure where you were going but definitely thought Earl was very decided. I had to smile when I read about Ethel’s “lusty dreams” too cute:)
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I’ve noticed that now, it’s not just fancy women on the local news, but trendy men too.
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Oh… This was an unexpected take :) Kept me guessing throughout.
Happy Christmas to you!
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Thank you! All the best of this special season and wishing you a wonderous 2015;
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Thank you. I looked at the picture and thought Earl wants to go, Ethel doesn’t and went from there.
Wishing you all the best of this festive season, and happy writing in the new year!
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Oh I did enjoy this. There seemed to be so many possibilities as I read along. Excellent take, well done. Merry Christmas.
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