I was eighteen when I learned the truth, and not because anyone had the courage to tell me. No, instead I stumbled upon the truth in the middle of aisle seven at Publix. While choosing between cola or lemonade, I ran into her. I stood in shock, drink bottles crashing to the ground, their sickly sweet syrup spreading everywhere as the plastic shattered. She never blinked, and the smile plastered on her face seemed genuine. All I could do was…
Tommy sat rigid on the counter and stared at the drop of blood seeping from the wound on his leg until Meg wiped it clean and applied a flesh-colored bandage that clashed with his dark skin. Instead of climbing down and scampering off to play, Tommy remained on the counter, scrutinizing his hands. He glanced at Meg and waited while she discarded the bandaid wrapper. Friends stood in the doorway, keeping a wary eye on him. “You’re all set,” she…
I am a collector of words. Big or small, round or flat, I hoard them all. I tuck them in books and pockets. I store them in notebooks and drawers. Occasionally, I jot them on my skin in hopes of never forgetting how they sounded when spoken, the way they danced and twirled across my tongue. Each word speaks to me, filling me with wonder while sparking my imagination. I close my eyes and glimpse them through the darkness. I…
Cake crumbs clung to George’s small pudgy hands, a splotch of vanilla icing mixed with sprinkles smeared across one cheek, mouth stained red from the fruit punch. The small goldenrod bowtie askew, socks and shoes long since abandoned. The white dress shirt sported every ounce of fun he’d enjoyed since the ceremony. His curly red hair mussed, glasses smudged with fingerprints tilted as he wrinkled his nose. George covered his eyes and giggled as the bride and groom kissed. He…