Short, weird, fun!

This one came about because of the “Readers on Deadline” challenge over at http://www.deadlinedames.com/ – they post a picture to inspire readers to post a 250-word or less story.

*****

Time to Talk

“Mama!”

I jumped, I couldn’t help it, then looked around. The shopkeeper was still reading his magazine. The only other customer had just left, so it was just me and… a doll. Sitting lopsided on the shelf in front of me. I poked it tentatively.

“Mama!” she said.

“Murderer,” said my mind.

I bit my lip, holding back tears. I wished I could just go home and cry. But then Mom would notice, and she’d have it out of me, I knew she would. Then she’d kill me for having the abortion. And then she’d kill me *again* for having sex…

I held up my hand, blocking out the doll’s face. I counted to ten, breathing as deeply and evenly as I could. “There,” I thought, “I’m fine. I can handle this on my own.”

The bell jingled. The door slammed. The doll slipped, just a little. Just enough to let her peek through my fingers and say “Mama!”

I looked back, feeling the tears start running down my cheeks. “I’m sorry,” I whispered, “I’m sorry. I had to do it, don’t you understand?”

I heard my voice growing louder and stopped, embarrassed. The shopkeeper was selling something to the guy who just came in, but they were both staring at me. I turned away.

The bell jingled. The door slammed. “Mama!” the doll insisted.

“Yeah,” I whispered back, “Maybe I should talk to Mom.” Then I left, keeping my head down to hide my tears as I went home.

*****

With all of these stories, I’d love to hear what works for you, what doesn’t, and why.  This endeavor is a learning experience for me, and the more feedback, the better!

Thank you for reading