I let it ring

The phone rang at 9am. I knew it was Vince. I knew what he wanted. I let it ring and looked at the wall.

There is a paper note on my counter now. It sits next to three other things I will not bin. I do not know what I am waiting for.

I went to the gym. Late. Left hand only. Danny sat in the corner and said nothing. I said nothing back. The quiet was the loudest thing all day.

I drove home past the trams. My right hand on the wheel. My left hand felt heavy. The note was the first new paper on the counter in nine days. That says something about me I am not ready to say out loud.

If I do not call Vince by Friday, the slot is gone. I know that. I am writing it down here so I do not have to say it yet.