Kate Ryan

It was a tradition of theirs. When siblings Sue and Johnny went home to their mother’s for Christmas, they watched the 11 o’clock local news.

I would send some chocolates, but I’m not allowed anymore since they found the shiv in the birthday cake I sent you.

Writing simply does for me what long walks do for small dogs; it makes me tired and happy.

His mind rode the lines, circling on an endless loop to nowhere as he attempted to go about his activities.

She gropes for attention while he dies in the other room.

Like booster engines emptied of fuel, my limbs become disposable, useless tanks as the blood rushes from them.

He died a violent death. I saw him myself, flopping between wooden blades, his head bent back strangely.

“You are the naked girl on horse, yes?” he said, approaching her table from across the café patio.

12:48 AM. Why would someone schedule an exorcism for the middle of a weeknight?

For the record, I didn’t mean to be born so tall. I didn’t ask for bulky shoulders or a head that doesn’t fit most hats.