Highly Commended
Over 18s Category
By Natalie Bowers
Kathy had only popped round to ask the deaf old dear to turn down her telly. “Jason’s on nights you see,” she said as she followed Mrs Carpenter along the hallway.
“Never you mind about that, sweetie.” Mrs Carpenter shuffled along, gnarled fingers kneading the length of the dado rail. “Come and meet my visitor. Sweet young man. Brings such interesting friends. Always listening to their problems, helping ’em sort ’emselves out.” “Oh, I didn’t know you had company,” replied Kathy. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d seen anyone walk up Mrs Carpenter’s path. It would be good for her to have regular visitors. Too much time alone could send an old person doolally.
Nudging the lounge door, Mrs Carpenter beckoned her in. “He’s in here.” With a ready smile, Kathy stepped through the doorway, but as she looked around she realised the lounge was empty. Frowning, she opened her mouth to speak. Before she could form a question, though, she recognised the theme tune blaring from the telly. It was one of those daytime talk shows.
“Oh, Mrs C,” she whispered as her throat tightened. She should have popped round more often.
