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…
“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…
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 click of the door as it opens makes me cringe; sunlight slices through darkness, a well-sharpened knife administering a thousand cuts. The outside air suffocates, pressing deep into my lungs and knotting up my stomach. My teeth chatter as if it’s cold, but it’s not…