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101 Word Short Stories

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ER at St. Jude’s

November 9, 2021 6 Comments

By Brian Maycock

He is burning the candle at both ends.

As the wax melts, he feels the heat approaching his hand.

This was the bet he made: He can work and party and still be the best. In fact, he can literally hold a burning candle at both ends. No sweat, he told everyone. Business success demands strength, ruthless ambition. The weak can take a hike. His drunken friends cheer.

They’re chanting his name. Because he’s got this.

His nostrils flare, constrict. Perspiration contradicts. The flames flicker, closer still.

As his skin begins to singe, he forces a grin.

He is going places.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Alastair says

    November 9, 2021 at 7:21 am

    A great argument for being self-employed! ?

    Reply
  2. Valli Henry-Boldini says

    November 9, 2021 at 12:47 pm

    Great little tale… kudos …

    Reply
  3. Valli Henry-Boldini says

    November 9, 2021 at 12:47 pm

    A great little tale… nice descriptions… well done …kudos …

    Reply
  4. Richard Temple says

    November 10, 2021 at 9:49 am

    Was the place he was going ER at St Jude’s?

    Reply
    • Brian Maycock says

      November 10, 2021 at 10:13 am

      Hi Richard,

      It was.

      Brian

      Reply
      • Bridget says

        November 10, 2021 at 6:43 pm

        I wondered that. Then I thought he might be one of the doctors staffing the ER!

        Reply

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