A Climactic, Unforgettable Bang
From the age of 10, when I discovered the Hardy Boys Mysteries, I was hooked on reading. I wondered if someday I could write books like that–stories filled with adventure,…
The Night Creature
I lie in bed waiting, silent and still. The glow of the nightlight casts eerie shadows on the wall. Above me, the heater vent gapes with slatted teeth. Air stirs.…
Beef Stroganoff
Richard is Martha’s husband. She calls him Dick. One day, Martha discovered Dick secretly watches adult videos. Martha says nothing. She cooks beef stroganoff for him every night. Dick doesn’t…
In the Company of Friends
Amanda was pleased that her closest friends came for dinner tonight. She looked around the table at each one, their eyes reflecting the soft glow of the overhead crystal chandelier.…
Truth Be Told
The doorbell rings a second time, interrupting the still of morning. I’ve been up all night, and I’m tired and irritated. Who is it, JW’s? Mormons? Kids selling chocolate? Go…
Predator SmackDown
“Pathetic losers,” I smirk, as the credits rolled on my favorite Reality Crime TV show, “Predator SmackDown.” I shake my head. How stupid can these guys be? I look at…
A Double-Edged Sword
My phone buzzed. I glanced at the screen and swiped to dismiss the notification. Time for my meeting with Mr. Grant. I rode the elevator up to the executive top…
Til Death Do Us Part
“I love you honey,” I say. He doesn’t respond, but I know he’s still awake. “I love you forever and always.” Still no response. I lean towards him and kiss…
The Sunset of His Days
He watched the orange ball sink below the rim One day further from the day of his birth One day closer to the day of his death How many days…
Connor’s Cookbook Conundrum
One rainy Saturday morning, Connor, a very ordinary, bored-out-of his-mind teenager, was looking for a snack in the pantry when he found a vegan cookbook on the top shelf. The…
My Talk with Dad
“We need to talk,” says dad. “Okay, I’ve got a few minutes. What’s up?” “Have a seat while I get some coffee.” I sit at the dining room table. Dad…
Keenan’s Second Chance
After his divorce, Keenan thought he would never find love again. He hated being alone. He missed female companionship. Twelve years together, then she was gone. Oh, how he longed…