I know a lot of short stories (or even longer ones) have come from a little tit-bit of overheard conversations, so it's always good to have an ear out!
Anyway, this is one I heard the other day at the supermarket:
Checkout lady says to customer:
"Hello, Happy New Year!"
Grumpy Old Man:
"Yes, Happy New Year." (Said without feeling)
Checkout Lady:
"Did you have a good time?"
Grumpy Old Man:
"No"
Checkout Lady:
"Oh, that's a shame."
Grumpy Old Man
"Yes we went away."
Checkout Lady:
"Oh, that's nice."
Grumpy Old Man
"Not really, there was only a double bed in out hotel room."
Checkout Lady (Looking a little wary):
"Oh." (Meaning, please don't tell me any more)
Grumpy Old Man:
"Well I don't like sharing a bed, the wife takes up most of it, so I couldn't sleep."
Checkout Lady (trying to be positive):
"Aw.Well at least you got away for a little break."
Grumpy Old Man:
"Well, it was a waste of time, I put up with it for two nights, then we came home early."
Checkout Lady:
"Oh dear." (What else to say? She didn't want to sympathise)
Thankfully he was done then with his shopping and was on his merry way . The poor lady on the checkout looked at me as if to say, "I wish I hadn't asked!"
I mean, his poor wife! Imagine a husband announcing such a thing, his wife's holiday is cut short because he doesn't want to sleep next to her!
What a grump. He made Victor Meldrew look like a charming romantic.
I hope your' new year is off to a better start! :)
