Some saw a table for two or three, hosting an impromptu lunch on a sunny day.
Others saw a much-needed break in the daily routine… fresh air, laughter, conversations with friends and coworkers.
Charles saw none of that.
He saw perspiration and aching shoulders. He smelled the odor of ammonia and felt water sloshing against his legs as he shuffled around the building. He saw the indifference in the eyes of others as they passed by without noticing. He saw the loneliness of his life reflected back at him.
“Hey buddy! You missed a spot!”
Charles cynically continued his work.
——————————————————————
This week’s photo for Friday Fictioneer is provided by Melanie Greenwood.
Our hostess Rochelle Wisoff-Fields has kept the 100 word flash fiction going for over two years. Read what others had to say at http://rochellewisofffields.wordpress.com/
Retired Ruth 
Ruth, It’s a shame that the only times we notice the employees like Charles is when they miss something. They seem to melt into the background for some. I wonder if he’ll ever be able to afford retirement. He sounds like he’s nearing it. Well written. — Susan
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Poor Charles! I hope he gets a break soon.
Lily
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It’s hard when you are not appreciated.
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Dear Ruth,
It’s in the eye of the beholder. You made me ache for Charles. Well done.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thank you. Charles needs someone to care.
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I liked how you showed us Charles’ perspective. I find it fascinating how each person sees the same through their own unique lens. Thank you for sharing 🙂
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Oops, I meant to type “sees the same scene differently through their own unique lens”
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Thanks for commenting and reading!
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Beautifully told. Charles really needs a holiday – or a change of job. I wonder if he eats in cafes on his days off.
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I picture him heating up a can of soup on a hot plate.
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It’s all about perspective.
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So true. Thanks for reading and commenting.
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What do I think? you’ve made me think about those who we might overlook everyday. Great job
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We tend to forget about the jobs that aren’t necessarily highprofile but so important to all of us. Thanks for your comment.
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Interesting take. Well done.
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Thank you.
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I like the idea of this (and the execution). So easy to overlook the people who provide for us, whether it is clean spaces or anything else that makes our world work.
Nice.
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I like the way you use the idea of what people see the way we Friday Fictioneers do each week. Poignant ending.
All my best,
Marie Gail
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I hope he has some happiness after work. Thanks for commenting.
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Interesting give and take in this. Places that some people look forward to are merely work for another. Nicely done.
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