The tropical sun burned a blood-orange glow before sinking behind the hills, leaving the 18th-century-style mansion a gloomy gray, its many windows dull and opaque. Twilight crept across the lush island as the air-conditioned tour bus wound its way up the hillside toward the architectural masterpiece. The engine’s hum faded as it entered the circular … Read more
This story contains sensitive content CW: Brief gore, supernatural content Bernie stood from the couch, making his way to the door. He grabbed both their coats, handing Nora hers. Abuela approached holding her little dog. “Don’t forget to say goodbye to Guapito, he will miss you dearly.” Abuela said, turning her body so the … Read more
To say that the chicken coop was in turmoil would be an understatement. It was in cacophony, at war, filled with the casualties of trauma. Feathers filled the air as if a down pillow had been hit with a shotgun. The terrified squawking of hens sounded like a siren’s choir. Shadows scattered every which way … Read more
They say the old silk cotton tree in Crabwood Creek can swallow souls. That its roots drink more than water. That sometimes, late at night, you can hear drumming from its trunk—low, deep, and filled with a grief older than the earth it grew from. Anjali had never believed any of it. Not until the … Read more
“Mom?!” Pounding on the steps grows louder. “Dad?!” Thumbing, banging, even stuffed under all the blankets and pillows, he can hear doors slam and closets shut. “Mom! Dad?” It was just like the boy to call out for both parents by the time neither showed themselves on the second call. David was the same way, … Read more