On a Plate

Short Story 2006 Gareth A. Williams

He liked his lamb rare, like his women. And she was much younger than him: beautiful and an excellent cook.

He eased his fork into the steak. The surface tension resisted for an instant but then relaxed, allowing penetration. Reddish juices swelled around the points of entry before running onto the white plate.

Of course, she was pure when he first met her. He liked it that way.

The cold edge of the steak-knife ran easily through the flesh. It was no match for his dextrous work. He lifted the fork, a corner of steak attached. He studied it carefully: browned, succulent on the outside; pink, mouth-watering on the inside. God, he loved lamb!

She looked across at him and smiled. For the first time, he noticed the start of laughter lines on her incessantly-tanned face.

"I hope you like it love, she said. I thought I'd go for a change this week.

He wasn't really listening to her. All he saw was the blond hair. He realised he'd forgotten what colour it really was.

Ready to love it, he popped the meat in his mouth; chewed.

Toughness.

Surely not!

Mutton!

Mm. It was time to find a younger wife.