Papadopoulos

© J. Francois Barnard - 17 December 2023

Petro's radiant smile illuminated the kitchen as she gracefully poured tea, the comforting aroma wafting through the air. In the adjacent lounge, the lively chatter of her husband, Walter, and their guests provided a pleasant backdrop. Meanwhile, the joyous laughter of her two children and their friends' son echoed from the garden, accompanied by the playful barks of their exuberant puppy.

The Party Balloon

© J. Francois Barnard - 15 December 2023

Jurgen patiently bided his time in the barbershop, scrolling through an email on his phone. Despite recognising the offer as reasonable, the hefty price tag of $50,000 gave him pause. Lost in contemplation, he was roused when the person next to him gently touched his arm, signalling his turn.

 

Nine and a Half

© J. Francois Barnard - 14 December 2023

On a scorching summer afternoon, I hastened home in my car, yearning for the solace of my abode. Navigating through my automated gate, a twinge of irritation gripped me as I noticed pamphlets carelessly scattered on the pavement beyond.

The Traveller

© J. Francois Barnard - 13 December 2023

Berndt Östhaven, a farmhand hailing from Stattegg, Austria, glances up at the familiar sound of a scooter echoing through Stattegger Strasse. An intense desire for adventure surges within him, yet his sole means of transportation remains confined to the farmer's tractor resting in the barn. As a young girl cruises past on her Vespa, Berndt raises his hand in a gesture of greeting, only to retract it as a poignant memory floods back. In his hand, he clutches a carrot reminiscent of an encounter three months prior.

The Vision of a Blind Man

© J. Francois Barnard - 26 July 2023

I have been in the computer industry for more than 36 years now, and had it not been for the vision of a blind man, it would never have happened.