December 30, 2025
I stared at my cards, feeling the weight settle in on top of me. If even my friends couldn’t take a stalker seriously, how could I expect the police to?
December 25, 2025
“Don’t you think it’s too soon to talk about getting another puppy for Christmas?” I asked, stealing another piece of bacon from the plate. “No,” Carol insisted. “You know how sad Crystal’s been since Mistletoe crossed the Rainbow Bridge.” “You mean since the dog died,” I translated, not being one for euphemisms. “Yes. It’s not good for her to cry all the time. She isn’t even excited about Christmas this year,” my wife replied. “But it’s only been a few weeks…”
December 20, 2025
The scent of pine enveloped her as the tinsel on the tree shimmered in the first light of dawn peeking through the front windows.
December 18, 2025
"I need a reason to see you and Dad?"
Another knowing smile. Her head tilted and the right eyebrow went up like always. "Right. When I have to practically send your father in the sleigh after you to drag you up here once a year."
December 13, 2025
I am majestic and glorious. Those lovely evergreen candles add a nice Christmassy touch when people walk in the door. Yet, you spend all your time with that puny, insignificant tree in the other room. You ignore me and all my splendor…”
December 9, 2025
I suppose waiting until Christmas Eve was not the best of ideas. But this is when people are the most desperate and least festive, trying to make the season jolly for their loved ones while feeling inadequate to do so. That makes it the best time to find a target.
November 16, 2025
I fell in love when I first spoke with her. She sits by the window and sips a cappuccino, always in the same seat. Her regular […]
November 12, 2025
Morning. Noon. And night. The sleeves and legs ride high — a regular fit for an irregular frame. Still, it’s keen-o, he thinks. He hollers for a mirror and is obliged. Father D. should’ve seen these threads when he met me this morning.
October 27, 2025
“Forever and ever and ever. Without end. No stop.” The lead demon cackled maniacally, shaking its poker at the newcomer.
October 23, 2025
The gangway connection door opened and a sable-haired woman seemed to float into the car. She wore a black Venetian gown with tangerine trim and a crown of naked branches festooned with marigolds. An onyx pendant dangled from her choker, reflecting the train’s fluorescent light.
October 22, 2025
An ancient crone’s nose pressed against the glass, inches from me. A scattering of teeth punctuated her mouth, and her eyes, devoid of expression, stared right through me.
October 19, 2025
At first she sees the blur of a rainbow-colored zephyr, then nothing. Then, as a shiny silver door appears with the name “Cafe X” in flashing bright neon, her heart shudders as she catches her breath.