Inheritance

Flash fiction contest entry. 300 words using the prompt words: parrot, bottle, letter.

“You have arrived at your destination.”

I pulled the rental car to the curb and looked around. The neighborhood was tired and old. I reached under the seat, grabbed the bottle, took a swig and felt the warmth as the whiskey began to do its job. I got out, took the stairs to the second floor and found room 204. I stood for a few seconds and re-read the last paragraph of the letter.

“A reading of the will, will commence promptly at 11:00 am on June 19, 2025 at the offices of Lenny Grout ESQ, suite 204, 37 Elm Street, Limon, OH.”

I looked at my watch. It was 10:55. I knocked.

The door opened and a man in his late sixties with a ZZ Top style red beard gave me a huge smile, shoved a thick leathery hand in my direction and said “Hey partner. Lenny Grout. I’m sorry for your loss.”

I forced a smile, nodded and stepped inside.

The motel room had been converted into an office, complete with a desk and filing cabinets.

“You must be Vincent.”

I nodded. Still unable or unsure what to say.

“How about we get straight to business.”

He pulled a letter from his jacket pocket and tore it open. He cleared his throat and began to read.

“Last will and testament of Rosemary Lawson. I leave my entire estate to Vincent. That’s all. Goodbye.”

Mr. Grout looked up. “Ha, classic.”

“She left me her entire estate?” I said.

“Yup, and here it is.” He lifted a bird cage up to eye level.

In the cage, a bright green parrot sat on a perch, one foot scratching behind its ear.

“That’s it?” I said, not expecting a response.

“Oh hell, no!” Said the parrot. “I’m not going anywhere with him.”