I finish washing up—one cup, one plate, one fork. I’m passing by the door on my way to watch TV all by my lonesome when I hear voices. The words are muffled, but the tones are unmistakable: exasperation and persuasion. I fetch my trusted ear-cone and press it to the door. “What are you doing … Read more
This story contains themes or mentions of physical violence, gore, or abuse. The salon opens at ten, but I awaken before the lights flicker on. I feel the sun through the smudged glass of the storefront—the real sun, too far away to matter. Here, in this suburban pocket of Los Angeles where the air … Read more
This story contains themes or mentions of physical violence, gore, or abuse. (Content Warning: some mature content and graphic scenes) I want to tell you a story. My name is Seraphine. I was born, what you humans call, a vampire, the curse of my mother and grandmothers woven into my genes. Only women can carry … Read more
The hedgerows file past in a green blur that mirrors the passage of time. He does not notice this. Few ever do. That is a lie that they tell themselves. Yet another filter. He sees so much, but most of it is lost. Filed away in the file called bin, headed for the landfill site … Read more
This story contains sensitive content *Contains mentions of mental health issues and drug use* “Don’t go to the skatepark, Hitoshi. Please!” “It’s fine, Mom. They’re tearing it down, just gonna get some last looks. That’s all.” Hitoshi steps out, turning to close the door behind him. Seeing the uneasy look on his … Read more