Third place in the ‘story in 100’ words competition, July 2008

Patrick’s Burgers

by Alex

“Heard about Patrick’s burgers?”

“What?”

“The new recipe’s to die for!”

I rush to Patrick’s café, “Paddy!”

“Jonny!”

“One burger please.”

Patrick hands me Heaven in a bun. Lean with a rich chocolate texture, it tickles my taste buds in ways burgers shouldn’t!”

“Mmm-mmm-mmm! What’s the secret?”

“The mince! A family recipe!”

Over months, I gorge on hundreds, until one day, ‘Do Not Cross’ tape surrounds the café. Plod guards the cordon. I approach a reporter, “Is Patrick alright?”

“He’s been arrested.”

“Why?”

“His family’s missing, presumed murdered. They’re not sure where he’s hidden the bodies.” He pauses, “Rumour is . . .”