Author: Walton Merritt

A “Worthy” Suitor Sophie stood by the window, gazing at the empty yard outside.

“It’ll be alright, son…” A quiet voice came through the phone: “Barry, love, it’s Mum.” Barry always

“I don’t want to argue either, but when are you *finally* going to fix that shelf?”

**The Third Attempt** Joan slipped into her white coat, sat at her desk, and leaned back in the chair.

“I knew you’d call, Mum…” The phone buzzed in the middle of the lecture.

**Diary Entry** Honestly, just what I needed… Emily lived alone. Children never came for her and

Luba and Vladimir met at university, both living in student halls. They knew they’d be together, but

**Diary Entry – 10th May 2023** It’s been years since I last went home. The first two at uni in Manchester

“I knew you could hear me, Mum,” said six-year-old Oliver, tugging at his grandmother’s sleeve. “

**You’re to Blame, Mum** Emma was frying beef patties when the doorbell rang. She stepped out of the