Two Stories

Two stories about the uncertainties of attraction, from the acclaimed author of Normal People and Conversations with Friends.


'Mr Salary' is Nathan. Sukie moved in with him years ago because her mother was dead and her father was difficult, and she had nowhere else to go. Now they are on the brink of the inevitable.

My love for him felt so total and so annihilating that it was often impossible for me to see him clearly at all.


In 'Colour and Light', Aidan and Pauline watch a firework display together. They are almost strangers. But their stumbling connection pains Aidan more than any casual flirtation.

He now feels utterly confused as to why they seem to be arguing, confused to the point of abrupt despair.