It’s lovely to be back on Substack for my Sunday afternoon flash fiction slot, having not long returned from a marvellous time at The Writers’ Summer School, Swanwick.

It seems apt to base a story around letters, given that visit to Swanwick. Hope you enjoy Stuck on Q.

Stuck on Q by Allison Symes

‘I’m always stuck on Q. I’m the same with board games, Derek.’

‘Bev, I’m stuck with X. One object away from the prize.’

‘Likewise. I could use that £250.00.’

‘Why don’t we co-operate? I’ve got something for Q. What about you for X?’

‘Yes, but only one can win.’

‘We split the prize. I’d find £125 useful. We could celebrate at that new cafe.’

Bev smiled. She’d won a bet. Fellow quizzer, Karen swore shy Derek would never date Bev, being wrapped up in quizzes since his wife died.

Derek didn’t need to know Bev was about to win £150.00.

Ends

Allison Symes - 16th August 2026