Today I randomly opened The Last Drive to page 225. With eyes closed, I pointed to the page. The word closest to my finger is “privacy.” That is our prompt today.

Privacy by John W. Howell © 2026

“Could you please leave?”

“What’s the problem?”

“I just need some privacy.”

“I don’t get it.”

“What don’t you get?”

“We went to all those classes, and I’m your birthing partner.”

“Well, right now I can’t stand the sight of you.”

“What has changed?”

“You are the one who got me into this mess.”

“Oh, like you weren’t there?”

“This is no time to do the hurt feelings routine. Just go away.”

“What about the breathing exercises?”

“I can do that on my own.”

“I hate to see you like this.”

“Then you should go.”

“You sure you will be okay?”

“Yes, I’m sure. Go hang out with your friends.”

“They are all busy.”

“Go catch some fish then.”

“That’s a good idea. I’m sure you will be hungry after the pup gets here.”

“I swear. Of all the sealions in this world, I end up with Mr. Practical. Now go.”

“You still love me, right?”

“Of course. I just need you gone. Bye.”