I can’t stop smiling when I finally find it. Perfectly age tarnished gold, twisted into an elaborate web around a single chipped pearl. An earring worthy of Cleopatra. At least that’s what the museum believe. And so will the next buyer I have lined up, as soon as I finish making a new one. #WriteCBC
The first thing I see is the snake tattoo on his neck. The second is the cigarette dangling from his mouth. But it’s the flowers in his hand that finally get a reaction. “Hell no,” I say, “you’re not taking my daughter to prom.” He smiles. “Lovely to meet you ma’am. These are for you.” #WriteCBC
I turn my face towards the hot breath, but my eyes refuse to open. They know what I will see. I can hear the low droning buzz, smell the sulphuric twang, taste the iron of blood on my bitten tongue. Let one of my senses remain untouched. Let my eyes, at least, pretend that they are safe. #WriteCBC
The sun god has framed his temple in light. Its shadow stretches down the mountainside so that it seems to take up more space than the limestone and marble can account for. Phemonoe walks in the shade of her new home and tells herself that this welcome reprieve is a good omen. #WriteCBC
A note on the door says ‘welcome’ in spiralled handwriting and when I open the door the air is warm and smells of roses. But all is silent. Another note on the fridge encourages me to use the empty space. And one on the fireplace tells me where to find kindling. None of them are signed. #WriteCBC
My writing goal for 2025 is to write the first draft of a new book. Wrote the first 800 words on New Years Day, now I just need to keep it up! #WriteCBC
Instead of answering, her mum rushes to grab their suitcases and starts shoving clothes in.
‘The snow should have been warning enough, but I thought she’d be able to keep him away forever. 20 years, and now…’ She looks up, her eyes piercing. ‘He’s coming Ella. We must leave.’ #5ActFestiveStory
‘So a postcard can make it through the snow in time for Christmas, but he can’t. He could have at least sent a present.’ Jen quickly scrunches up the postcard as her son walks into the kitchen. His searching eyes look straight past her and it takes all her resolve to force a smile. #5ActFestiveStory
