Brian Lux - author
If Only
(Acorn Magazine, Competition Winner: Subject- Table. Max 250 words)
I’ve served this huge mansion for several generations: seen it all, the highs and lows of life.Now ageing, like the present owner, I am still the object of appreciation and affection, carefully polished so that the lustre of my carefully matched wood glows.
It hurts to hear the phrase, ‘If only they could speak,’ to walls when discussing meetings, where plans to change the course of history of a country or family are plotted. After all, a wall is a wall, unlike myself, an object of craft, lovingly created.
People remark on my beauty, caress my smooth, exquisitely grained surface and quickly mop up spilled wine or coffee, lest any stain spoil my features.
If only I could speak, what revelations could be revealed to embarrass or anger the motley mixture of persons arranged round my perfect oval shape. My wood is alive and can listen to guests while they smile at the other diners. My elegantly carved legs tremble with excitement at some of the whispered promises or passion in the dead of night, rarely with the person sitting opposite.
I listen to new conversations this evening as another dinner party is in progress. But I can see as well as hear. Two arms surreptitiously descend beneath my surface, and hands briefly link in an exchange of affection. Two legs slowly extend and feet entwine is a silent dance of passion.
If only I could speak, because those two legs are male.