by Doug Jacquier

This 100-word piece has been shortlisted for the 2024 100-word tale competition run by Wilson’s Tales in the UK.

My avian emporium is called The Birds (so sue me, Alfred).
One day, a preening peacock of the human variety entered my shop, looked askance at my various winged wonders and trilled:
‘I had hoped to find feathered treasure but, alas, I feel let down. Nevertheless, I will take that vaguely presentable kookaburra to give my friends a laugh.’
‘$500, cage included.’
‘$200 is my best and final offer.’
Taking my silence as lack of consent, he turned theatrically and made for the door, before pausing and turning.
‘One last chance to change your mind.’
I gave him the bird.