October on the Veranda
July 11, 2006 at 10:33 AM
by Ashleigh
The veranda. Wide and low.
Soft darkness in contrast to the glaring October light. Green gauze over the window apertures to keep out the flies.
Inside, cold oxblood floors, polished to a high shine by the Boy and his polisher. Whirring and whining every morning at 7o'clock.
The electric fan on top of the gramaphone, limply distributing the air.
Dad fiddling with the radio to get a station through the static. Eventually giving up and settling for torpid silence.
Ochre plastic leather covered chairs sticking to the backs of your legs where your skirt rides up. A sucking sound when you shift in your seat.
Tea in a metal teapot with the green knitted tea cosy from your aunt delivered by the Boy on a tray with four cups, sugar basin, hot water, teaspoons.
'Bloody Boy forgot the milk again. Can you tell him to bring it?'
'Ephraaaaim, milk!'
The conversation drags on about crops, rain, mielies, Boys and their wives.
'Geez, did you see that Juliet's husband beat her again. These people. Drink and fight. You cant do anything with them. Its not surprising they can't govern themselves.'
'Mmm. Do you want another cup of tea?'
'Thanks Darling.'