One Name Missing From the Programme

At the neighbourhood celebration, Tomas helped set out chairs while his friend Ed prepared to read a poem. They had written it together over several evenings. Ed enjoyed speaking in public; Tomas preferred to stay behind the scenes. Both had agreed that Ed would perform it.

When Tomas opened the printed programme, only Ed's name appeared beneath the title. He felt a sudden tightness in his chest. Perhaps Ed thought the poem was really his. Tomas considered leaving before the reading, but instead found his friend beside the small stage and showed him the page.

Ed looked shocked. He had sent both names to the organiser, but had not checked the final programme. Tomas believed him, although he still wanted the mistake corrected. Ed asked whether Tomas would be comfortable with a spoken explanation before the reading. Tomas said yes, but did not want to stand on stage.

Before beginning, Ed explained that the poem had two writers and thanked Tomas by name. The organiser later changed the online programme as well. Tomas listened from the back row, hearing familiar lines in his friend's voice. He was glad he had spoken privately rather than carrying his suspicion home. After the applause, Ed found him and asked which line they should change before performing the poem again next year.