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The Cost

April 20, 2024 8 Comments

By Jim Pownall

Casey bought me signed books, bands discography on vinyl, even an Underwood Typewriter.

In return, she wanted holidays in Paris, a new home, financial stability. I couldn’t afford all that pulling pints. I’d cuddle her, write sweet notes, mention our beautiful future. She’d recoil and say, “This isn’t working.”

Casey’s new boyfriend owns a BMW and a huge house. Meanwhile, I live alone in our flat, a museum of my failed relationship with her. Friends say that Casey didn’t deserve me.

Last week, I hauled her stuff to the auction house, needing the memories gone. Today, the extra £11,000 seems therapeutic.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Stella says

    April 20, 2024 at 8:55 am

    Loved this! Great 101 words

    Reply
    • Jim Pownall says

      April 23, 2024 at 1:53 am

      Thanks Stella! I appreciate it.

      Reply
  2. Edward says

    April 20, 2024 at 12:43 pm

    Love the little reveal at the end!

    Reply
    • Jim Pownall says

      April 23, 2024 at 1:54 am

      Thanks for reading, Edward. I’m glad you liked it!

      Reply
  3. Toni Brayer says

    April 24, 2024 at 7:36 am

    Very good. Says so much and leaves me thinking.

    Reply
    • Jim Pownall says

      April 24, 2024 at 3:08 pm

      Thanks Toni!

      That’s very kind of you to say.
      Jim

      Reply
  4. Tony says

    September 25, 2024 at 10:37 am

    Fantastic little story! Nice work.

    Reply
  5. Jim Pownall says

    November 23, 2024 at 1:12 pm

    Thank you Tony!
    That’s really kind.
    Jim

    Reply

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