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20.10.22

INSURANCE

 

INSURANCE

After the pandemic Harry tried to pay his insurance, but self-certification was no longer good enough – they sent an inspector round.

He tutted. Several times. “Electric wires trailing, heaps of rubbish just poised to fall. It’s a disaster waiting to happen.”

Harry, seething at the word ‘rubbish’, started to sort it out that night, beginning with the piles of books. Trouble was, he couldn’t resist turning on the nearest light to read one.

A threadbare wire glowed, a cushion’s tassel ignited, and the whole place went up with a whoosh.

“At least he died doing what he loved,” they said.

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Places like these are beloved of antique hunters - and the numerous TV programmes centred on the subject. I love them too, though I'm always afraid of toppling the delicately balanced structures!

Thanks to Rochelle for hosting Friday Fictioneers, and for the photo that is this week's prompt.

14 comments:

  1. Replies
    1. All for stopping to read a book, too!

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  2. Hoarding is a real issue. Stopping to read while tidying up is so human.

    - Tannille

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    Replies
    1. Tidying the loft is another snare for the unwary!

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  3. Alicia L Jamtaas23/10/2022, 20:56

    Who knew reading could get you into trouble?

    ReplyDelete
  4. Well, the worst happened but at the best of times :). I wouldn't mind dying with a good book in my hand!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Preferably not in a fire, though!

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  5. Oh, not the way to go even if doing the right thing. Well done.

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    Replies
    1. And the insurance wouldn't have paid his heirs, either :(

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  6. The poor guy was just hanging on before and that final insult may have been what pushed him over the edge. I'm not sure the fire was accidental :(

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  7. Dear Liz,

    You could say he went in a blaze of glory. I hope the book was worthy.

    Shalom,

    Rochelle

    ReplyDelete

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