11 Comments

I enjoyed this short story and took it to be complete. Am I right? If so, I agree, it seems very Hemingway-esque. I feel for the woman and fear for her marriage, if that's what it is, with Richard. But it captures the inner-life of women, especially in the 60s, reluctant to speak out, to defend oneself against the discourtesy or coldness or indifference found in the men around her. Well done.

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At the bottom of EVERY story, right above the Comments section, are two buttons that say Previous (on the left) and Next (on the right.)

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There is more! If you go to my Home Page and go to the top of the page where it says SHORT STORIES AFTER EIGHT, you will find the entire story in sections. I just have to add the connecting pieces. I didn't know it wasn't done. I'll get to it, but at the. moment I'm tied up with things I'm supposed to be doing. But go to either my Home Page, or the Archives. There's at least 5-6 parts to it.

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Thank you for explaining. I'll check that out.

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I'm intrigued. Good storyline. I see a one-sided love relationship but then perhaps Richard is very reserved.

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Can't wait to see how you feel when you finish it.

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Had a chance to read this one before heading off. Really love the layering of the setting with the roles of the characters. Could go in some interesting places. The end feels a little Hemingway-esque in the coldness of the narration.

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You should keep going with this. I kept imagining Bogie and Bacall playing their parts here.

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Sep 12, 2023Liked by Ben Woestenburg

Your characterization and dialog are excellent, Mr. Woestenburg. This piece reads like a contemporary stage play. Though I see no trace whatsoever of the "love story" you promised in your introduction, I am very interested in seeing the next installment. I have subscribed in order to not miss it. Sharron at 🍁Leaves

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My stories are long and involved. But luckily for you, It's all done so you can read it all at once and not have to wait week to week!

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There is mystery in this story-the couple are avoiding the problems in their relationship. Well written Ben. Cheers, Heather

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