Don’t Tell Uncle Bill

Sarah had been dreading her 47^th birthday. She tried to convince her family to forgo this occasion to meet and party, and she knew her parents knew why she was hesitating. She explained to her mother that she had the wherewithal to throw a grand and festive party. Sarah knew she would be in a pickle if she went straight to the point by saying, “It’s your brother, Uncle Bill; that’s the problem!

Her mother knew no one wanted Uncle Bill to attend family outings!  Uncle Bill didn’t understand the concept of a short drink, a wee dram of whisky, and no more. He always drank too much of his tipple of choice and changed from a decent chap into a total embarrassment to everyone.

At the last family outing, a picnic at the city park, in an inebriated state, Uncle Bill stole the flag off the flagpole. By the time the family had convinced the police not to arrest Uncle Bill, all the joy of the occasion was lost.

Sarah told her mother, “We can celebrate, but please don’t tell Uncle Bill. I would like one birthday free of the drama accompanying him when he drinks!” There was a long silence on the phone as her mother contemplated Sarah’s request.

Finally, her mother said, “He’s family! He doesn’t mean no harm, and he loves us! End of story! Deal with it!”

Fictional story for Saturday Mix, Story Starter, from MindloveMisery’s Menagerie for Saturday, August 12. Fandango prompt is Wherewithal. Ragtag Daily Prompt is Stole. The Daily Spur prompt is Straight. Word of the Challenge is Pickle. The Three Things Challenge #M419 is tipple, dram, and short.