Wednesday Story Day – AKA Hump Day.

Librarian signing her memoirs with stamp.

Librarian signing her memoirs with stamp.

Wednesday story day again and last week we were treated to a situation where Bob’s mother managed to confuse Robert. He is an alternate personality created by Bob. Robert’s sole function is to protect Bob from the psychological ravages inflicted by his mother. Robert seemed a little confused about his identity and called out to Bob for help. Let’s join the two.

“Bob’s not going to come to your aid.”

“Why not?”

“Because he is afraid of me. That’s why.”

“I’m not afraid of you.”

“Then why call for Bob?”

“I just need some questions answered that’s all.”

“Like what questions?”

“You raised a doubt in my mind about the future.”

“The future? Your future you mean?”

“Yes, I guess so.”

“Maybe I can help.”

“I don’t trust you. Bob has told me so many things you have done to him that I hate you.”

“Do you think Bob told you the truth?”

“Of course. Why would he lie? After all, I was there for some of it.”

“You were there?”

“Yes, Bob and I used to trade places when he was feeling especially vulnerable. Anyway, it doesn’t matter. I need to get on with protecting Bob and the best way is to shut you up for good.”

“You need to shut up Bob’s mother.”

“Yes, that’s right. Bob’s mother.”

“Take a close look Robert.”

“Oh my god. You’re Charlotte.”

“That’s right. You still think I need shutting up?”

“B─but I don’t understand.”

“It will take some time Robert. Do you have the time?”

“Oh, my gosh.”

23 comments

  1. Keith Edgar Channing's avatar

    And that’s how the ‘alter’ in ‘alter ego’ becomes a verb instead of an adjective!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Great comment. Thanks Keith.

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Charles Yallowitz's avatar

    Interesting twist. Charlotte seems to have her hands full. Then again, I’m not really sure what she is any more.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I think Charlotte is a constant. I’m not sure what Bob is anymore. Wait, I’m the author.

      Like

      1. Charles Yallowitz's avatar

        I guess my question is what is her job. She began as an editor, but now she’s more of a psychologist or therapist. So I wonder who the real Charlotte is.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Good question. I think I will let her tell you next week.

          Like

  3. quiall's avatar

    oooh a mystery wrapped up in an enigma!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes. I wonder where this is going to end up.

      Like

  4. Marie A Bailey's avatar

    Charlotte is back! Now what will Bob/Robert do???????

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      “Tune in next week,” as they say

      Liked by 1 person

  5. Dan Antion's avatar

    Phew! I was pretty sure that was Charlotte and I was worried. Nice twist John.

    Liked by 1 person

  6. Teagan Riordain Geneviene's avatar

    Yes, a nice twist indeed. … Hmmm… Is Charlotte what she appears to be — (other than when they think she’s Bob’s mother)… Is she an alter ego in a wig? Or maybe a government spy, perhaps from the Library of Congress or the Government Printing Office? 😀 You’re much better at this, John. So I will leave it in your expert hands. Besides — i have to deal with enough split personalities working for the government!!! 😀 Hugs!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I think you are a saint. (Working for Gov.)

      Like

  7. Debbie's avatar

    This tale is twisting and turning all over the place, John! Well written and most captivating — makes it hard to wait a full week for the next installment!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks Debbie.

      Like

  8. Russell J. Fellows's avatar

    Intriguing – but not good to come into the middle of something like this. Must go back and read previous entries…

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Actually you can hang around and read the next one. (next week)

      Like

  9. Phillip McCollum's avatar

    I don’t know if Robert has the time, but we sure do..and looks like we’ll need it! Nice, John.

    Liked by 1 person

  10. macjam47's avatar

    Great twisted tale.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Glad you liked it.

      Liked by 1 person