Do You Want Fries With That? (Flash Fiction)

Much thanks to the beautiful Priceless Joy for hosting Flash Fiction for Aspiring Writers (75 – 175 words) and Iain Kelly for providing the inspiring photo prompt this week. If you haven’t heard of or joined this challenge, please check out PJ’s blog for more details and entertaining entries. You won’t regret it.

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Now, to the story:

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“I don’t feel so good.”

“That’s just nerves, bud. You’ll do great, and I’ll be right here waiting.” James shares a secret handshake with his son and then watches Sam take the stage.

Late practices, blisters, calluses. All worth it for this moment. This audition. Or so Sam has been saying, every second, of every day.

Now there he is, holding his shoulders back. Violin high. Arms strong.

The first note washes over the crowd. Then Sam wets himself. And passes out.

Eyes wide, face red, James runs across the stage for his son.

Later, there are no words. Only fries and burgers. That’s the best remedy James can come up with. His wife would’ve known what to do.

Eating outside, Sam picks at his food. His burger collapses into his fries. “Shave my hair, change my name. That’s my only option… Or I can seppuku myself.”

James laughs, then regrets it. Simultaneously, a helicopter soars overhead, blades beating the air. But Sam still must’ve heard his dad since he’s glaring at him.

“Sorry.” Kids really should come with manuals.