www.colincampbell.org
copyright colin w campbell
micro fiction by colin w campbell
Penelope's Poisonous Plan
Winning Entry, Adult Creative Writing Club Competition No. 88, Dec 2008. Read on Radio Sarawak Wed 25 Feb 2009.
"You're taking it all very well. Trust me, I know you'll soon get over it. Nice herbal
tea." Cindy spoke with all the sincerity she could project but inside she was thinking
what a doormat this girl is. I steal her best boyfriend ever and she invites me round
for tea for two and tells me everything will be alright.
"I know, sometimes shit happens
but let's move on from that," said Penelope. "It's a tisane, it's really called a
tisane not herbal tea. It's my new hobby. I used to buy the stuff in fancy stores
then I realized I was just paying for the packaging and the profits. The Internet
is a great equalizer. A couple of hours online and I knew where to get the seeds
and how to grow the plants and dry the leaves. There are even forums for sharing
stories. Have another cup, you'll find it very relaxing. I thought it would be just
the thing for the day of your big speech. Oh, and I guess you'll be making a big
splash on TV."
"Yes live on local TV and the whole thing will go on for hours too,"
said Cindy looking at her watch. "I'm so sorry but I will have to watch my time.
One more cup and I'll really have to go."
Penelope watched and waved from the window
as Cindy went off to the TV studio. Then she lifted Teddy up from behind the potted
plant that had been getting most of her own tisane. Teddy was her loyal old friend
with buttons for eyes. The friend who never lied to her and who would never even
think of stealing her best boyfriend.
As they settled down to watch TV with a nice box of chocolates, Penelope carefully
explained to Teddy what they might expect to see from a really strong herbal laxative.
(314 words)
