Lorraine Collins

1. Lay out your parts.

Here we go Annie! You click on the YouTube video; you hate written instructions. Actually, I realise, you hate reading. And I wish you’d call me Annabel.

2. Attach crossbar into base legs.

C’mon babe, our first joint purchase, we’re officially an item! You beckon me onto the sofa, muss my hair; the hair I’ve just spent half an hour straightening to a silky finish. 

3. Attach frame bar to leg base. 

Mm, love your perfume, it really turns me on! You place your arm around my shoulder, snuggle into my neck. You are hot with fresh sweat from the effort of carrying the box, but your pheromones leave me cold. 

4. Attach J-Hook to Frame Bar. 

What’s the matter? You look confused as you feel my body stiffen, you carefully remove your arm, still tender from your recent tattoo. We’d agreed on a matching design, my appointment at the tattooist is tomorrow.

5. Attach Hammock to J-Hook on frame.

Only five steps, didn’t think it would be so straightforward, let’s give it a go, shall we? Resolve tingles up and down my spine. You’re right, it is straightforward. I create distance between us.

To Deconstruct...

...I’m sorry, I’m just not ready for this. I detach myself from your hurt.
You stand up in disbelief, then kick the packaging as you turn and leave.
That night I go into the garden and assemble the hammock under the apple tree. It’s been a warm spring and the blossom is in full flower. I caress the un-inked skin on my arm, then lie back and contemplate the stars.

 I make a mental note to cancel my appointment with the tattooist.
 

Lorraine Collins lives in London, England with her husband and campervan. Her work has been published or placed by The Anansi Archive, Flash 500, WestWord, Wildfire Words, WriteTime, Walk, Talk, Create, and various festival competitions. One of her pieces has been nominated by Does It Have Pockets for Best Microfiction 2025.