The roar of the mouse

A short story by Louise Jensen

- Louise Jensen

If I'd had the slightest idea of what was about to happen, I'd never have left the safety of the department store. Of course I wouldn't. But I didn't know, how could I? All I knew was that the handles from the multiple bags I was carrying were cutting grooves into my hands, even though they were classy cardboard bags with rope handles. Not the usual plastic but then this isn’t somewhere I’d usually do my shopping.

If I hadn’t felt so exhausted, so drained by everything life had thrown at me lately, I might have enjoyed this experience. Flitting from one designer concession to another. My cheap coat from Matalan, my fake LV handbag screaming that I can’t afford to be here but my purchases telling a different story. I am Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. Shop assistants eye me warily knowing I don’t belong but still they suck up to me, not wanting a ‘Big Mistake’ moment like in the film. Seeing that somehow, I have money to burn.

Not mine, sadly. It’s my boss's wife’s birthday and he’s given me his credit card and an obscene limit. Not as high as the limit he'd given me for his mistress on Valentine’s Day, though.

‘You don’t mind, do you, mouse?’ His eyes had been fixed on my chest. I’ve been in a junior position for years, him implying I'd be promoted if I did as I was told. Me losing confidence in my abilities every time I'm passed over.

My name is Minnie and he thinks it’s funny to call me mouse. My ex, Jordan, did too. I hate it. I hate them both.

I pay for the last item and head to the concierge and arrange to have my shopping delivered to the office tomorrow.