short(er) stories

just enough for two people. (301 words)

My hand stops briefly after getting two forks and two knives, just enough for two people. The muscles in my hand have memorized this particular movement, so when I have to take another fork and knife, the movements are stuttered. I can't get used to the extra dinner plates on the table, though. It's just temporary. In a week's time, the food will, once again, be enough to feed two mouths, the conversation around us will dwindle to silence, and the mess to clean will only be half as much. I force myself to repeat those words in my head whenever I see all of us gathered around the table. It will not last. Do not  get used to this. 

Day after day, for six days, my hesitation when I set the table decreases. On the seventh day, I set the table perfectly for the four of us, with no mishaps. Finally, I think, smiling.

On the eighth dinner, without pausing to think my hand goes to grab for two more forks and two knives, enough for two more people. My skin has barely made contact when I stop myself abruptly. No, Alex. There is only one other person, chides a familiar voice. I bite the inside at my cheek and frown, because I know. 

I know I have broken the one promise I have made with myself. I know I've grown accustomed to the older ways too quickly. Do not get used to it.  On the six day, I was getting there. On the last day, it was so natural, basically normal. But breaking this rule has a familiar consequence. The quick stab in my chest and churn in my gut. I also know I deserved that, but it doesn't mean it hurts any less. 

Swallowing, I put the third fork back. 

a/n

hmm.... uploading schedule? haven't heard of her.

well here is a short one for ya. Based on saddish true stories. hope you enjoyed it, regardless of the depressiveness. leave a vote if you liked it! comment what I should do better! be interactive, y'all. 

thanks for everything so far, marshmallows. <3 

also, the word count is the story minus the author's note... incase you were wondering.