What a Top Bloke
Maybe he isn't such a top bloke after all?
Freddie had hoped for warmer weather today, but the wind blew cold. ‘You can’t plan these things,’ he’d told himself. ‘At least the sun’s out!’ He pulled his beanie over his ears and headed for the park bench nestled beneath a big bellied Oak; its leaves starting to flush with vibrant emerald greens.
Sitting back, he swept his gaze across the lush park—a popular space for dog walkers—and spotted a couple in the distance, strolling with arms entwined with one another.
The cherry blossoms had begun to bloom, painting pink splashes of colour across the tree-lined paths. The blush and magenta flowers gave off an image of romance, encompassing the lovers' intimate saunter.
Freddie felt slight envy as he took a bite of his cold foil-wrapped tart. He wasn't hungry, just nervous, but didn't want his stomach rumbling as that would feel way too embarrassing.
Freddie had been feeling nervous all morning, unable to eat his breakfast; the thought of her not turning up turned his stomach. He had stuffed the tart in his hoodie’s pocket as he ran out the door. He was resigned to her not coming in all honesty.
****
His work colleague, Lee, had arranged the blind date for Freddie a few days earlier. It was his way to try and cheer Freddie up. Freddie's girlfriend had cheated only a few weeks back, and if that wasn't bad enough, she'd also had the gall to ghost him. Just like that.
No explanation. No apology. She had vanished into thin air.
The only reason Freddie had known she’d cheated was because she’d stupidly sent him a text message, and it was so obvious that it wasn’t meant for him.
Bitch!
They were going to get married. Well, in his mind, but he hadn't actually asked her, even though they had dated for over a year or more. He couldn't remember the exact amount of time they'd been together; he didn't do anniversaries!
Freddie couldn't believe she'd left him. He knew he could be selfish, and that he'd hardly given her much attention, but hey — he was a top bloke at work—everyone told him so!
He decided to go for it and meet up with the blind date. He was sick and tired of trying to ramp up his dented ego.
It was true, Freddie had been taken aback by Lee’s concern and kindness, especially as Freddie had always treated Lee like an underdog at work; he just couldn’t help it, he had a competitive streak.
And it was true, he stole Lee’s brilliant work ideas, taking credit for them and sucking up to their boss.
Freddie knew he acted like a schmuck. It was a wonder that Lee hadn’t been more pissed with him, let alone want to help him now he's been kicked down.
Freddie contemplated this: What a top bloke Lee is; takes it lying down!
Freddie threw the rest of his tart for the squirrels and looked at his watch:
She’s a bit late, I bet I'm right—she won't turn up!
Freddie had always shouted at his ex for being late. He had no time for that!
The couple, still hand in hand, had walked the perimeter of the park and were heading towards Freddie's direction.
As the duo pass, Lee hugs his arm tighter around Freddie’s ex. They turn and kiss, and turning back, Lee gives Freddie an evil wink, mouthing: Revenge is sweet, top bloke!
©Chantal Weiss 2025 All Rights Reserved
About the Creator
Chantal Christie Weiss
I write memoirs, essays, and poetry.
My self-published poetry book: In Search of My Soul. Available via Amazon, along with writing journals.
Tip link: https://www.paypal.me/drweissy
Chantal, Spiritual Badass
England, UK
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Comments (4)
“Wow, what a twist at the end! The build-up really paints Freddie as a man lost in self-pity, but the irony of him calling himself a ‘top bloke’ while treating others poorly makes the ending hit even harder. Lee’s quiet revenge was unexpected but perfectly timed—subtle justice wrapped in a single evil wink. Brilliantly written!”
Omgggg hahahahahahaha! I can't believe that Lee was who Freddie's ex cheated on him with! Wow, talk about a shocking twist! Not only did Lee set him up on a non existent date, but he stole his girlfriend too! Serves Freddie right! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Loved your story!
Karma, done with style and flair. Nice twist and reveial of his true nature and the satisfying ending.
Chantal Christie Weiss, Such a powerful and emotional read. I really felt Freddie’s vulnerability, and the slow reveal of his flaws made him so human. The ending was a gut-punch—totally unexpected and ironic. Beautifully written with a great sense of atmosphere!