The gravel underneath the truck’s tires let out muffled pops and cracks as the vehicle slowed and finally came to a stop in front of the tractor repair shop. The former funeral home, converted to a garage, was given a large berth by the surrounding buildings. The shop’s aluminum siding appeared gray in color giving the structure an unnatural waxy appearance. Sarah slipped from the passenger side and shut the door. The normally loud thud was subdued in the early morning fog. She looked back at the old, dilapidated tractor resting motionless, and silent on top of the trailer its bulk was enclosed on all four sides with only the upper half exposed to the chilly air. Her lips pursed and her eyes blinked uncontrollably, batting at the moisture flooding them. She remained there for a few moments before turning and walking towards the service entrance. Halfway there a figure in blue coveralls wearing a baseball cap emerged from the door. “Morning mam. What can we do for you?” The el...
Original stories and poems by Patrick James