Happy Father’s Day to all the dad’s reading. Whether you are the natural father, a step-father, or a surrogate; kudos for making a difference in the life of a child.
Sunday Photo Fiction is a weekly challenge to write a 200-word story based on a photo prompt. This is a photo I took at a local park. If you are interested in reading more stories inspired by the photo below, you can find them by clicking the little blue frog here

I watched the old man from a distance. He sat on a park bench, feeding bread crumbs to a gaggle of geese. They reciprocated their hospitality with annoying honks and droppings at his feet. His wrinkles and white hair suggested a man older than his physical years. He wore second-hand khakis and a rumpled t-shirt. Neither looked washed.
This is not what I had pictured at all.
I returned to the park daily, blending in with the park lunch crowd. Simply observing. Then I started following him, curious where he went after leaving the park. His routine never varied; a stop at the grocer for a can of tuna and bread. I wondered how he survived on such measly rations. A block later, he entered a run-down building. I found his name on the mailbox. Five flights up and no elevator.
For days I contemplated my next move. It was time to leave or finish what I started. I chose the latter.
When the old man opened the door, I saw recognition from behind his clouded eyes. I saw something else. Fear. Rightfully so.
Pointing the gun at his head, I pulled the trigger.
Happy Father’s Day, Daddy
word count 198
OMG! What a nasty turn at the end! Either he had hurt others in his lifetime,or held the keys to some treasure.
Most likely past hurts. I’m glad you liked it. Originally it had a sweet ending and I just couldn’t go there.
Writers hold a lot of power 🙂
OMG, didn’t expect that ending. The buildup was so gentle.
Thanks Sheena.
I was expecting a happy reunion! My goodness, how wrong was I! Nice (nasty) one Susan! 🙂
It started out that way but it just didn’t want to end that way. I assure you I have no parental issues. Thanks for reading Iain.
Wow!! What a twist!! 😍
Lol thank you!
Surprisingly violent ending, Susan. Well done.
Thanks C.E.
Well that was certainly unexpected. Yikes. Hope my Father’s Day turns out better.
I’m sure it will, unless you have some deep secrets we don’t know about lol. Thanks James
“Everybody’s got something to hide except me and my monkey.” -Lennon and McCartney – White Album – 1968
Oh wow, what a twist. I was not expecting that. Well done! =)
Thanks Brenda.
That was totally not expected and really sad. Was he a petty thief or was there more to this cild blooded murder?
I’m not sure what Dad did to warrant murder by his son. They have been separated for a long time, maybe since childhood. Could be the son just never forgave him for being a rotten dad. Thanks for taking time to read it. I appreciate it
What an awesome twist that was, Susan. Bravo!
Thanks!