Hello. After a long period of inactivity, it’s finally time for another Friday Fictioneers entry. The challenge is to write a 100-word story in response to a weekly photo prompt chosen by our host Rochelle Wisoff-Fields. Follow the link to her blog for more information. Thank you to all who take the time to read, like, or comment.
A little context: I’m getting my ears pierced today. In about an hour, actually!
PHOTO PROMPT © Linda Kreger
Piercings
I wanted to make a joke:
“Two piercings and a midlife crisis, please!”
It’s not funny or genuine; just an old defence.
I’ve been pierced before. The holes remained infected until they eventually healed over. This time will be different.
A therapist told me I was obsessed with being seen.
I didn’t like her. I didn’t agree with her.
But she was right.
I was obsessed with distracting people. I hid behind an act.
Now, I hope there’s no performance, no act; just me.
If people happen to notice, hopefully they’ll say, “He looks happy.”
Because I think I am.
Thomas Charles Henry 
Leave a reply to Thom Carswell Cancel reply