After a long moment in my dream, my younger self whispered to Annie, “I think he’d like to be free,” and then the walls closed in once more.
Outside I hear Tem’s motorcycle starting up and then, after a couple of revs, the engine pulls away and I see him accelerate away down the road.
The doorbell rings. I place my old Stetson hat on top of my wardrobe and step out onto the landing, my head naked and open to the world.
Annie and I bounced back into the woods and there she opened her hands once more and whispered:
“Go and find your friends.”
My little legs snapped like springs as I jumped to freedom.
Acknowledgements
Massive clapping hands to my cornerstones – family, friends and Lizzie – for your faith, patience and love.
Also special thanks to Hanne Busck-Nielsen and the members of the Freehand Writer’s Group for all your support and encouragement.
*
‘Green Grass’
Words & Music by Tom Waits & Kathleen Brennan
Copyright 2004 Jalma Music.
Universal Music Publishing MGB Limited.
All Rights Reserved. International Copyright Secured.
Used by permission of Music Sales Limited.
*
‘Sins Of The Father’
Words & Music by Tom Waits & Kathleen Brennan
Copyright 2004 Jalma Music.
Universal Music Publishing MGB Limited.
All Rights Reserved. International Copyright Secured.
Used by permission of Music Sales Limited.
*
‘Moon River’
Words & Music by Henry Mancini & Johnny Mercer
Copyright 1961 Sony/ATV Music Publishing
All Rights Reserved. International Copyright Secured.
Used by permission of Sony/ATV Music Publishing.
The Laundry Basket Page 26
