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Author: The Reluctant Author

The Reluctant Author, a user of words, has spent a lifetime writing words and storing them in notebooks, computer discs, digital files, and has now decided to step out into the light and start sharing some of those words with the world. (The Reluctant Author is Kendra Cooke's pseudonym)
Mommy Mischief

Mommy Mischief

I envisioned myself as James Bond, the super spy who drives fancy cars and has all the gadgets to get out of any uncomfortable predicament. Instead, I’m tailing a mother of three. The baby drooling on her shoulder, the middle one whining, the eldest walking circles around them all. After following her for a week, I’m finding it difficult to imagine this rundown woman who hasn’t showered in days is part of the knock-off designer bags ring. I pull my…

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Surprise Announcement

Surprise Announcement

Every year for their anniversary, Riley produced the best gifts for Maddie, but this year she was determined to upstage his gift-giving passion. Two days ago the prefect idea revealed itself, but now, as she waited for Riley to get home, Maddie twirled the ribbon and doubted herself. The front door opened, and a rush of cold air swept in. “Happy anniversary,” Riley said, handing her a bouquet. She inhaled their floral scent and handed him the small box. Watched…

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Scarred For Life

Scarred For Life

Ear pressed to the wall, Max held up a hand to silence Gertrude. He concentrated, trying to hear who the mysterious couple in the other apartment were conversing with. Either they knew someone might overhear them and opted to be cryptic, or Max needed a refresher course in English. Gertrude stood in the doorway, hands resting on ample hips, as she scowled at him. “Max, stop snooping on the neighbors.”  “Loose lips sink ships.”  “The war is over, darling.” “Can’t…

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Hidden Worlds

Hidden Worlds

“Add the apple,” Selena hissed. Drake frowned. “Aren’t you supposed to use eye of newt?” Selena glared at him and tossed a handful of herbs into the pot, turning the mixture blue.  “This isn’t a fairy tale, Drake. Now help me.”  Arm outstretched, revealing a phoenix tattoo on his wrist, he obeyed. “I don’t understand how simmering random junk in Mom’s stockpot will get you anywhere.” Not answering, Selena turned the heat off and, outside, tossed the contents against the…

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