It only took them thirty minutes, to clear Vera’s home of 70 years.
The man from Treasured Past was both professional and ruthless.
He quickly decided whether it was skip or shop.
Vera’s full life, rapidly emptied after death.
Faded labels, hanging on some of the items, were ignored as the van was loaded.
Names of intended recipients no longer relevant. A consequence of living long and dying lonely.
The neighbour stepped back from watching the man through her window and looked around at her own cluttered room.
Just like Vera, everything she owned was important.
Her treasured present. Not his.
Originally published: Ellipsis Zine Magazine
