“Another Handbag”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

Prompt: “I can’t help it!”

“Are you serious?” Gabe yells, shaking the bag in my face. “We can barely afford food as it is right now, and you went out and bought another purse?!”

I slump into my chair. “I know, I’m sorry,” I sigh. “I can’t help it.”

His expression immediately softens and he sits down heavily next to me. “I didn’t mean to yell,” he says, his voice filled with regret. “I’m just worried about what we’re going to do.”

“I know,” I repeat, placing a hand gently on his arm. “I’ll go return it.”

He nods, handing me the bag. “Thank you.”

Of course, as soon as the bag is back in my hand, my heart tugs at me.

Don’t return it, it whispers. You’ve wanted this bag for so long. You’re not broke yet. Keep the bag.

My fist clenches around the handle. Still, I force myself to walk away from Gabe and his disappointed glare.

No, I’m going to return it. I focus all my energy on walking to the car rather than on the bag swinging so satisfyingly in from hand. The car seems so far; I can feel my willpower slipping away more and more with each step.

Final Comments: I had no idea what to write about…

Overall Rating: 😣