Well, I've decided to take a crack at writing again. It's always been my second passion. While searching for the first draft of a book I wrote nearly a decade ago, which I figure could use a little work, I uncovered a bunch of short stories. To get back into the swing of things, I thought I'd polish 'em up a bit and post 'em for your entertainment and comments. The one I posted below is probably the last short story I ever wrote. It ain't too long & sorry, no pictures.
"A Stray"
By Paul E. Schultz
Two Dobie pups roughhouse noisily in the dust, testing mettle, like all children will. Before Time's march leads them to adulthood. The lucky ones grow up. Some just grow old.
I sit on the unfinished deck, in the thinning shade of the old house, watching idly, remembering what I can't forget. A boy I used to know, a stray who couldn't be house broke. Or broken.
I light a cigarette from my nail apron--a candle in the window--drawing a concerned glance from the screen door. Eyes too old for one so young. I don't even try to figure out the dog years.
"Her's called Sleepy-eyes."
Corn silk hair caught on an invisible breeze. Rabbit eyes stare out from behind taped-up frames.
Popsicle purple drips on new lumber.
"As good a name as any, I suppose."
"Mommy don't like her playin' with them others."
"In this heat, I don't blame her."
"She says them's too mean, but them's just playin'."
Inside the house, a man's voice calls. An echo from a nightmare.
The little girl jumps. "Gotta go now. Bye."
The screen door smacks, echoed from inside a moment later. I hear his voice, remembering the tone if not the words.
How many times do I have to tell you...? Why do you make me do this...? What's wrong with you...?
In the driveway, the playing stops and the pups scatter. Sleepy-eyes continue to stare. I know what she's asking.
I give the butt a flick, pick up my hammer and reach for the door.
If you like what you just read and would like to read more of my stuff, head over to this blog and check it out. Let me know what you think, good or bad. How else am I gonna know, right? I'll be adding new material periodically and will let you know when I do.
