James Perkin has been an avid reader for as long as he can remember. He especially enjoys writing science fiction but as a long-term WM subscriber, and recently resolving to enter a competition monthly, he is trying out different genres and styles.
After his first shortlisting just under a year ago, he has now won twice in consecutive months.
Oscar Harold, eyes closed, breathed in deeply. He held it for ten seconds then slowly exhaled. Calmness washed over him; his heartbeat decreased and he could feel the fog lifting – his mind cleared.
He opened his eyes and stared deeply into the mirror. He wished Kent was still here.
The intercom cracked, then Zelda’s voice: ‘Oscar. Five minutes to go.’
He turned to the camera in the corner, nodded and gave a thumbs-up. He was ready.
*****
‘Ladies and Gentlemen. Welcome to Launch Night!’ He sounded more confident that he felt and could feel the nerves rising. God, he so wished Kent was here – this
