Uncertain Shape

The music from the house speakers was loud. John could feel the bass notes in his chest. He stepped out of the way of the incoming humans. He surveyed the room. The bartender looked like she was twelve years old, which was why she worked here. She cultivated a crop of red hair, which she… — read more

Vipers Laura stood in front of the dresser. It was waist-high, and she leaned against it, hands on top. Her head hung, relaxed. On the dresser was a jewelry box. Piled neatly in front of it was a silver necklace with a silver cross. She picked it up, letting the chain slip through her fingers.… — read more

Nathan was underneath. He looked down the length of her. Smooth. She was so smooth, except for two small mounds that hung towards him. The backs of his hands were on the floor by his ears. Laura had her hands on his forearms, and she squeezed them. He had been holding his breath, afraid to… — read more

Matt brought the package with him back to the car. The lady he had encountered was pretty rough. She acted like she’d seen his face a hundred times and had never approved once. Matt put her out of his mind. Pulling his phone out of his pocket, he dialed his employer. “This is Joanne. Who’s… — read more

Happy Faces A joke was made at a politician’s expense. “Ha!” shouted Ilia. “Such a bastard.” The corner of the bar where she sat was quiet. Peter leaned forward and absorbed the bouquet of his beer. Anne leaned back and put her hands on her lap. “Well? Isn’t he?” asked Ilia. A cheery grin sat… — read more

In the midst of where the backs of a dozen houses face each other, there is a flat spot. Last summer, a group of young men built a patio. They placed stone tables on the patio inlaid with chessboards. This is the Courtyard. The Courtyard feels what courtyards feel. The neighbors walk through and touch… — read more

Sarah came down the steps and turned into the kitchen. She saw Jeff standing at the counter, looking in a box. His forehead was wrinkled. She smiled. “Whatcha got there?” asked Sarah. Jeff looked up and then back at the box. “It’s a timer.” “It is? What for?” “I don’t know. It isn’t attached to… — read more

George walked into the church. “Where do you want to sit?” he asked his wife. She was quiet. He made his way to where they usually sat. Third pew back and halfway in. The best angle to watch the organ. He sat down, leaned back, and crossed his ankles. “Do you mind if we sit… — read more

Mary walked down the hall to the bedroom, passing Rudy on the way. After she changed into her pajamas, she made the kissing noise that would summon him. She climbed under the covers and turned off her lamp. Rudy had still not come. She smooched again. She did not hear his collar jingle. Concerned, Mary… — read more

Andrew stepped out of the carriage. Snow crunched underneath his feet. The air was sharp on his throat, and the breeze tickled his mustache. He surveyed the landscape. Here was the place — he was back. He stepped out of the way of the door and shut it behind him. He gave it two good… — read more