Fine Line

FThis is my fifth April A-to-Z Challenge. The past couple of years, I’ve written 100-word flash fiction each day. This year I’m doing the same, only with a twist: each day’s story will be inspired by the title of a Paul McCartney song. So let’s continue the fun with…

FINE LINE

Ferdinand seethed with jealousy as he watched Suzanna run to Marco’s apartment.

What does she see in him? he wondered, staring from the bushes. Sure, he’s good looking, but he’s so grouchy.

Ferdinand gripped the bouquet of flowers, conjuring resolve. He’d been in love with Suzanna since fifth grade. Now was the time to let her know.

Be courageous!

As he approached the window, he could see Marco’s head cradled in Suzanna’s arms.

Keep calm!

The door was open so he burst in.

In a horrible moment he took in Suzanna’s tear-streaked face, the burn marks around Marco’s limp neck.

Check back tomorrow for “G”…

“Fine Line” is a track on McCartney’s 2005 album “Chaos and Creation in the Backyard.” It was released as a single in August of that year reaching number 20 in the UK charts, and number 1 in Japan.

cds

Colin D. Smith, writer of blogs and fiction of various sizes.

You may also like...

28 Responses

  1. Celia Reaves says:

    So … another happy ending? For Ferdinand, anyway. I guess…..

  2. That’s the Colin I know and love. And yet when you twist and shout, I never see it coming. When are you going to get that book out? I am sure I will like it. Splendid little story. No wonder you are so good at those flash fiction contests.

    • cds says:

      Thanks, Elise. It has been a couple of days, so we were due a fatality. 😉

      This is one’s actually a little different from the other 25 stories in that the inspiration wasn’t just the song’s title, but also the song’s first line: “There is a fine line between recklessness and courage.”

      Guess who got on the wrong side of that line… 🙂

  3. I wonder what Ferdinand thinks now? Perhaps it’s time for a rethink.

    Keith’s Ramblings : My short story has 3 obscure F’s

  4. julieweathers2014 says:

    Well, back to Miss Sally Sunshine, I see. *taps toe* Poor Marco. I didn’t see that one coming, but that’s what makes your flask fiction so good.

    Elise, I stopped by your blog, but it had stuff on it, bad stuff and I ran away screaming. Yeah, I’m a sissy.

    • cds says:

      LOL! I promise you, in a larger work there would be a ray of sunshine somewhere. This could be just the beginning of a happily ever after type romance novel, kind of like a Nicholas Sparks thing, where it’s all tragedy to begin with, but ends up nicely. Sort of… 🙂

      Thanks, Julie! At least I didn’t make you run away screaming. Which reminds me, I need to check out Elise’s article for today… 😀

  5. Looks like he wasn’t expecting that! If he plays his cards right he can still get the girl. (okay, that was morbid of me, eh?)

    ~Ninja Minion Patricia Lynne aka Patricia Josephine~
    Story Dam
    Patricia Lynne, Indie Author

    • cds says:

      Weeell… this would be one way to start a romance novel. Our unrequited hero forced into “friend” mode to help the girl he loves come to terms with the loss of the man she loved. Can she love someone again? And could Ferdinand ever be that someone while the ghost of Marco (metaphorical or literal–it could be paranormal romance!) still haunts Suzanna? I daresay Nicholas Sparks has already written it, but you could be onto something, Patricia… 😉

  6. Oh dear, although I’m not sure which one should be running in the other direction now. LOL Well done!

  7. Ah. Nice ending!

  8. Oh that was the best yet. I particularly appreciate it when I go back for a second read and pick up something new that supports the story.

    In this case, I went back and as soon as I read the first line I realized how critical it was. She’s running to Marco because (at least in my interpretation) she’d just been on the phone with him and he threatened to take his life. And he’s “so grouchy” is another hint that escapes until you understand what’s about to happen.

    Great stuff, Colin. Truly.

    • cds says:

      Thank you, John. And YAY! Well done! to you. Indeed, that “grouchy” comment is the key to the “punch line.” 🙂

  9. stuart127 says:

    Ouch. Nice work.

  10. I’m with Julie – I didn’t see that one coming, either…

  11. Ooh, a chilling little tale! One of these fine days you’re gonna surprise us with a ff with an HEA.

    • cds says:

      Thanks, Heidi! A ff with an HEA? Hmmm… is there one in the mix this month? Wait and see… 😉

      (Can you tell I’m trying to hone my promotion skills?)

  12. Lori Carlson says:

    Oh wow.. that one was a surprise ending.. Suzanna is one hot chick alright… lol

  1. January 12, 2022

    3stating

  2. January 14, 2022

    […] Coming Up Hope of Deliverance Junk Backwards Traveller Live and Let Die No Words Zoo Gang Fine Line Waterfalls Girlfriend Young Boy I’m Carrying X is for Heather One of These Days Used To Be […]

  3. January 14, 2022

    […] Fine Line […]

Share your thoughts... I usually reply!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.