1 A Sad Gift

"whether you take life seriously or live without a care the results are the same.

we really do not have any influence whatsoever to what happens in our lives."

Edmond looked at the handwritten message at the back of the book his father had left him.

His father left when he was just a little boy. his mother wouldn't say why. questions about his father is only met with a blank stare.

edmond and his mother never talked about it.

His mother came home one day with a book. She said his father died and he left him this book.

"A fucking leatherback bible", edmond smirked.

that's all the fucker has to show for.

He could feel a lump in his throat as the feeling of disgust and sadness well up inside him.

the truth is he really loved and admired his father.

Edmond only had sketchy memories of his father. but the general feeling was one of awe, admiration and love.

he always knew his father was someone important.

he can remember the frequent visits of motley guests to their house.

he wasn't allowed in the study when guests are present but can remember the expression of awe and anticipation on the faces of their guests as they discussed seemingly important matters.

then one day his father left and never came back.

Edmond wiped the little moisture that gathered in the corner of his eyes.

Fifteen years is a long time.

"well that's enough of that", edmond rose from the study table and slid the book on an empty slot on the shelf.

he fancied a stroll through the neighborhood.

it was already twilight.

and edmond love the dark.