Mississauga Writers Group
June 2015
Stories & Such
words, Jake could pull his friend out of his obvious funk.
“I know Marge was upset about your love affair with Lucinda, but a wife of eighteen years ought to
have at least left a note of some kind before disappearing into the night. She owed you that much.”
Sam’s face was devoid of expression, but his eyes never left the picture windows, where he watched
as a steady parade of people came and went from the coffee shop. The silence continued unabated
for several minutes. Finally, Sam spoke. “Marge was a good wife,” he said softly.
Jake was starting to feel weird, as if he and Sam were having two distinct conversations at the same
time, and he wasn’t exactly sure what to say next. “At least Marge’s walking out paved the way for
Lucinda to come into your life. And you two have been happy together for the last twenty years—
right?”
“Sure.” Sam took a vicious bite out of his Danish.
Jake raised a skeptical eyebrow. “You don’t sound convincing, Buddy.”
Sam couldn’t keep up the pretense any longer. “Lucinda is seeing someone on the side.”
“Oh. I’m sorry.” Jake said, staring into his coffee.
“I don’t know why I’m surprised. I’ve suspected her of cheating for some time now.”
“Why do you put up with it?”
A look of deep sadness came into Sam’s eyes. “When you hurt a woman as wonderful as Marge, I
figure you get what’s coming to you.” He seemed on the verge of tears.
“Listen, Buddy, everyone makes mistakes. You can’t beat yourself up the rest of your life. It’s not
healthy.”
“I guess you’re right.” Sam’s face was solemn. “Still, I wish I hadn’t allowed my life to turn into
such a dismal disappointment.”
“You’re being too hard on yourself.” Jake’s tone was sympathetic.
“Why not?” Sam said miserably. He looked at his friend with haunted eyes. “Tell me something.
Have you ever made a mistake this big?”