A New Man

by Scott MacLeod

“Honey, I want to try that new crafting class. But first let’s pick apples.I know it’s Sunday during football season, but I want to try out that new sweater vest you got me.”

Erica flushed as he continued. This is how a man should talk to a woman. How he used to talk to her. Wait ‘til she could tell her neighbor Pam. Old “what do you need a man for?” Pam.

Todd continued. “It’s not right how they treat you at work, either. I think Brad takes you for granted. I’ve got half a mind to march in there some day and deck him.”

Had he actually been listening when she told her work stories? It always seemed like he was scrolling through fantasy football sites or car shopping online while she described her mistreatment.

“Also, I’m just gonna say it. We don’t see enough of your mother.”

This was almost more than Erica could bear. Thoughts of Todd and her mother coexisting peacefully. Even bonding. The three of them at the early bird. Matinees. She had never dared to hope for that.

“Also, I think you are right about my cutting down on the red meat. And wings. Let’s try more of those dishes you found on Pinterest. You are absolutely right about how versatile squash is. It really is a superfood.”

Had he done something wrong? Was he now overcompensating to curry favor? No. She knew it wasn’t that. She knew he was a good partner. Faithful. Just a bit indifferent to some of her desires. Until now.

“And let’s forget about that Gettysburg trip. I think we should book the Jane Austen getaway you read about. Follow in the steps of Mr. Darcy around the English countryside. Better than some old battlefield any day.”

Was this a dream? No, she was wide awake.

And she was not merely imagining it. It was real.

She was sitting by her honey, holding hands, as he gazed into her watering eyes and spoke the words she had longed to hear for so long. It was a breakthrough.

At this point, the counselor had heard enough. She raised her hand and cut Todd off.

“Ok. Ok. Very effective role play, I think. Now Todd, let’s continue the exercise. What would you say to Erica if you were being yourself?”





Scott MacLeod is a father of two who writes in Central Florida. His work has appeared recently in various publications, with more forthcoming. His Son of Ugly weekly flash fiction newsletter can be found on Substack at https://scottmacleod1.substack.com on Instagram @scottmacleod478, on X @ScottMacLe59594 and at http://www.facebook.com/scott.Macleod.334