---

 

This writing was accepted for publication in the 108 page perfect-bound ISSN#/ISBN# issue/book “Mask” cc&d, v294 (the Feb. 2020 issue) Order the 6"x9" paperback book:

Order this writing in the issue book Aiming at Immortality the cc&d Feb.-April 2020 magazine issues collection book		get the 322 page Feb.-April 2020 cc&d magazine 6" x 9" ISBN# paperback book:

Order this writing in the book 2020 in a Flash the 2020 flash fiction & art collection anthology		get the 296 page flash fiction & artwork & photography collection anthology as a 6" x 9" ISBN# paperback book:

Old Couples

Andrée Gendron

Early mornings are greeted by old couples everywhere taking turns in the bathroom, at coffee pots and pill packs on kitchen counters. Swapping smiles maybe kisses followed up by achy updates. First his complaints then hers. Their list of ailments is long.

He sits down with his paper. She starts toast and her housework. He calls off names—the obituaries. She shakes her head, “Nobody we know.” Both are grateful to still be around and to still have each other, although this new world is strange to them. They feel they’ve overstayed their welcome. Fearing it all but weathering it well enough like a propped-up pair of oak coat racks at least while it lasts.

Their empty nest once full of life and clutter, noise and blessed diversions is no more. Nowadays it’s a hollow husk neat as a pin but lost of purpose. Too big to heat but paid in full it may yet be sold. He says, “soon” while she says, “never.”

They argue constantly over absolutely nothing with the certainty it will end in a draw. They’re just so damned grateful for any chance to lash out and be heard.

Copyright of written pieces remain with the author, who has allowed it to be shown through Scars Publications and Design.Web site © Scars Publications and Design. All rights reserved. No material may be reprinted without express permission from the author.

Problems with this page? Then deal with it...