I wander from my family, who are keenly inspecting a new shower head. Through the isles of ceramic tiles and paint pots and wooden boards. A vast warehouse of home appliances and DIY components. People leisurely stroll past, not rushing on the laziest day of the week.
After a while I find myself alone and bored. I turn about, head back towards the bathroom department. My family aren’t there, they’ve moved on. I search for a little while. Can’t see them. Can’t see anyone. Haven’t for a while, now that I think about it. Anxiety threatens over into panic.
I can’t remember where the exit is. I don’t remember coming in. I never saw any of their faces. I don’t think they had any.
Paddy Dobson
2nd October 2022