Gavin Austin

Growing Pains

Stamping his cheek with painted lips that smell of bourbon, she greets him like an extra son.

Her auburn hair welded into an elaborate sculpture, smoke seeps through her nostrils as a log of ash drops from the glowing cigarette. A shapely right leg drapes across the left, beating in time to a tune only she can hear; the hint of a smile as she looks to some faraway place.

In the laundry, her breath comes hot in his ear. Her scarlet lips begging him not to tell Waynie, begging to keep their secret safe.

the simmer
beneath saucepan lids
suburban heart

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About the Author

Gavin Austin lives in Sydney, Australia. Gavin writes short fiction, short plays, and poetry. His work has appeared in many Australian and international publications.

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