Flashbacks
2006
2006
by Marian Allen
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January, 2006
And By Nature
"January is named for Janus, the Roman god of gates," she said, as if she hadn't heard me ask where she was last night instead of at the restaurant with me. "He had two faces. --What did you say, darling?"
"Nothing, Jan."
Now, guess her given name.
February, 2006
I Alone, He Alone
Seated together by chance. Talked through intermission. Agreed to drinks after. For once, Madama Butterfly had a happy ending.
March, 2006
Windfall
I stopped the car and got out, cursing the limb across the road. Then-- The deer! The sunset!
April, 2006
Catalog
He lists my faults, flaws, shortcomings. I turn the pages and list the common garden toxic pretty plants.
May, 2006
Hazelnut Coffee
One whiff, and I taste almond biscotti. I hear your voice sharing secrets, sharing jokes. My cream and sugar friend.
June, 2006
Superstition
"I caught the bouquet! I'm next to be married!"
Ben looks at the blooms in horror.
Bet he breaks up with me. That's my plan, anyway.
July, 2006
On Holiday
One week, plus the long weekend! Ten whole days, and I don't have to whack one single person, unless I just want to!
August, 2006
Dead Dog
He lies on his spine, legs curled, head back, ears limp as stilled wings. Comes a breeze. He stretches to catch it, then dies again.
September, 2006
Librarian
I've been in circulation, but a long time on the shelf.
He checked me out. "You're a rare find--a desirable collectible."
Words long overdue.
October, 2006
Cider
"How did you get him to drink it, Grandpa? He never will, for his daddy or me."
"Told him it was apple blood."
...Yes, that would do it.
November, 2006
Last Leaves
Birth, growth, young ones, lush plenty-- Ours, together. Now, in the chill, we try not to think of when it will be just one, then neither.
December, 2006
Victor
He stands over his opponent's dead body and shouts triumph through the frosty wood. Ivy-crowned, he exults, The Summer King, at the year's turn.
The End
Read the 2002 Collection
Read the 2003 Collection.
Read the 2004 Collection.
Read the 2005 Collection.
Read the 2007 Collection.
Read the 2008 Collection.
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