| Jay Mandal
offers another of his short-short stories Guarded Jay Mandal is from southern England. After grammar school, he joined a City bank and worked in Europe. He’s written over one hundred and fifty short stories, some of which are to be found in the collections ‘A Different Kind of Love’ and ‘The Loss of Innocence’; and two novels – ‘The Dandelion Clock’ and ‘Precipice’. Jay’s books are available from Bewrite Books at www.bewrite.net and from the usual outlets. His latest novel is reviewed in this issue by Tony Heyes, p8 |
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Guarded
by Jay Mandal “… that I’m gay?” Ben said, his voice guarded. “What makes you think that?” His mother sighed. Her youngest son was her favourite, but he was also the most difficult. “You’ve never shown any interest in girls.” “I’m fifteen, for Christ’s sake! D’you want me to get locked up?” “And you get very argumentative when I mention the subject.” “No, I don’t,” he said. He smiled as he realized he’d just proved her point. “I’m sorry, Mum. I’m a pain, aren’t I?” “You’re a teenager, you’re allowed to be. I’m sorry if it sounds like I keep going on at you.” “You’re my mother. You’re allowed to.” “Well?” This time it was Ben’s turn to sigh. “Maybe, I don’t know. People keep telling me it’s probably just a phase.” “People?” She frowned. “Michael.” “Who’s Michael?” “My boyfriend.” There was silence as she absorbed this. “How old is Michael?” “Twenty-one.” “You’ve got a twenty-one-year-old boyfriend?” she said carefully. Ben nodded. “Don’t you think it’s time we all met?” ***** “Ready?” Ben asked. “As ready as I’ll ever be.” “It’ll be OK.” “You spring this on me-“ “Stop worrying!” Well, it was now or never. “Hello, Mrs Robertson. I’m Sue, Ben’s Mum.” The End
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