Fast Fiction: The Question
Richard Mallinson’s short story reveals that there is often a question behind the question.
To enjoy more of Richard’s fast fiction please click on http://www.openwriting.com/archives/fast_fiction/
Think carefully before you reply. I will ask the question again, so that there can be no mistake. Please don't reply until you have given it proper thought. Now I will repeat the question. Were you or were you not at a party given by Mrs Mandy Stack on Saturday, December 13, 1997? Take your time. A lot depends on this ... I must point out that several people have already admitted being at the party. They are still being questioned. Your name has been mentioned by one of them - a known drug addict and low lifer. .. Now, where were we? Are you any nearer to giving me a definitive answer to the question which I have now twice put to you? I know this can't be easy for you, being woken up in the middle of the night but, well, I have a job to do and, you must understand, I cannot give special treatment to anybody, no matter whose daughter they happen to be ... Now let us proceed ... If it is any help, I can tell you that Mrs Stack's husband claims that he was sexually assaulted by a number of females at the party which was being given, as I have said, by his wife. At this stage it is not clear whether or not Mrs Stack herself took part in the assault.. . Hm, I think that I am revealing too much . .. Perhaps you would be kind enough to reveal something to me instead ... No, don't open your dressing gown . . . The point is this. How the hell does a bishop's daughter manage to get herself involved with such scum?
