| Here
is another short-short from writer Jay Mandal "Confined"
Jay Mandal is from Southern England. After grammar school, he joined a City bank and worked in Europe. He’s written eighty short stories, fifty of which have been published, and two novels. ‘Slubberdegullion’ and ‘A Different Kind of Love’ are collections of short works, while ‘The Dandelion Clock’ is a novel. Speakout magazine has published at least one Mandal story in each issue, and his short stories have been featured in popular publications such as Passport and Lookout. Jay’s latest collection, The Loss of Innocence, is available from BeWrite Books and from the usual outlets. |
| Confined by Jay Mandal For a while, their conversation was confined to small talk. Michael asked about Adam’s sister’s family; Adam enquired after Michael’s mother. Eventually, however, it turned to other matters. “You left,” Michael said simply. “I had to.” “You didn’t even discuss it. I came home and you’d gone.” “I came back to collect my things.” Adam sounded defensive. “I kept wondering what I’d done wrong.” “It was me. I couldn’t stay.” “You wouldn’t even tell me where you’d gone. When people asked me, I had to say I didn’t know.” “I’m sorry.” “I felt so stupid. It hurt, Adam, it really hurt.” Adam remained silent. Michael looked up. “So what are you doing here? Have you forgotten something?” “I’ve come back.” Michael gave a mirthless laugh. “Just like that?” “I’ve missed you.” “I missed you too, but I got over it.” Adam stood up. “I never stopped loving you.” “You show your love in a funny kind of way.” “Tell me you don’t love me, and I’ll go.” “You can’t do this to me.” “I’m asking for another chance, Michael. Please.” There was a catch in his voice. Michael was left with no option. “All right. One more chance.” The End
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