I’ve never enjoyed silence as much as I do now, particularly now that I’m a mom. There’s a softness to it that I never realized before, a soothing touch that eases at least a little bit of my perpetual exhaustion. I’m not complaining, mind you; being…
From the meager collection in my closet, a single necktie stands out. A father’s day gift from just a few weeks ago, gaudy and loud. “#1 Dad” it exclaims, bold print glittering against a purple backdrop. Ella had been so excited to give it to me. My fingers run…
I want to be a writer because, in all seriousness, it makes me better. It grants me empathy, understanding, encourages me to seek a deeper view of the world. When I write, dimensions bloom. Life, instead of a straight black line, becomes a full spectrum of color and light. Fulfilling…
“Sera, what a nice surprise,” Gertrude greets me warmly as I take a seat at the bar. I unwrap the scarf from around my neck and remove my gloves while she mixes up my usual. “Always nice to see you, Trudy.” I take a long swig of the drink she…
Clouds hang low in the sky, erasing the moon and stars. The wind swirls around me, my teeth chattering as I tuck my face further into my scarf. Florescent signs burn my eyes, harsh colors highlighting libations and welcoming those of age. The door protests as I yank it open…
My eyes snap open, nightmares sliced apart by the blade at my throat. Steel shimmers in the moonlight, chases chills down my spine. “Up.” A rough command sends me shuffling forward. We stumble out of my chambers and down the hall. Silence screams, the early bustle of servants and guards…
Brown eyes focus on me, echoing a silent plea that I want to ignore. It’s time, they say. Tears fall into my coffee. My head knows he is right, but my heart protests. The clang of his food dish stirs him enough to stand. His tail wags, a…
Mist hangs low over the river, an iridescent gown that hugs her curves. Water sweeps around the bend with ladylike grace and a beauty that steals breath from my throat. Here, fear melts and anger subsides. The silence soothes my soul, sews the broken seams of my heart. A rustle…
A misting rain falls as I put my car in park. I take a deep breath, fill my lungs with the air they so desperately crave. I hate goodbyes. Outside, laughter litters the air. Hesitant steps lead me out of the darkness and into the backyard. Cheers of greeting echo…
The first train to Midtown sits at the station, idling quietly. I take a seat in an empty car. Outside, the early rays of sunlight welcome the day, pushing aside a curtain of pinks and purples. I close my eyes, hoping to sleep through the ride; movement makes me ill…