Nice. I was wondering at first if this was based on recent travels of yours … I guess it still could be, eh?

I’ve been warned before that I’m too much of a nuance-looker and twist-finder, but the payoff in this story seemed a titch too hammered home. I didn’t see the grisly end coming, but as soon as I read about the murder case, it came together. Saying both “my motel” and “this motel” seems like overkill at that point. As does the word “bathroom”—maybe try “cut to pieces in the tub” since you haven’t used that word yet?

Similarly, you’ve got “bathed” and “bathing” close together. Maybe “After I dried off” or something?

Ooh, now I just feel like I’m really nitpicking. And here you haven’t written in so long.

In all, this story worked, and I enjoyed it, despite what my comment may indicate. Is it wrong of me to think it’s mostly a comic piece?

I also thought you were still savouring your recent travels. Welcome back!

I actually wrote this while on my holidays, but thanks for your input…you know I appreciate it too, jester…no need to apologise.

It’s 1.57 a.m. and I just got home, and look: I can’t keep away even at this late hour!