be good

You inhale and sigh. You place your fingers on the temporalis muscle that twitches. And look at what’s in front of you. You’ve been taught to appreciate, to be humble. You know that a great effort went into making the meal. Not to mention the hard work of the farmers and delivery men who provided the ingredients. You want to run away. From the plate … Continue reading be good

sail away

Water splashes in sync with the creaking of boats. On the shore, children run, and adults do chores in and near the huts. “This river originates in the mountain where your ancestors are from.” “My ancestors, Grandpa?” “Yes. Those you never met, some even I never met.” “You? You know everybody.” “I might be older than you but, no, I do not know everybody.” “Do … Continue reading sail away

a temple

The sultry wind caresses her wispy hair as she steps down the gangway. Once on the pier, the local men, children, and women surround her, their hands extended ― some with cheap scarves and trinkets, some empty. She passes the buses waiting for passengers, who have paid to be taken to places with more hands before returning to the never-ending food and the towels folded … Continue reading a temple

a ghost

The sound of an escaping breath wakes me up. I slowly open my eyes and notice the pale light. The curtains, which I’m sure I had closed before I went to bed, are wide open. A figure stands by the window. Its smooth face, which is shined by the moonlight, stares outside. I stay quiet and still. The figure sighs, turns its head towards me, … Continue reading a ghost

a ghostwriter

The rain pelts down on the remnants of civilization—reflections of flashing red lights, flyers with blurred words, and discarded paper wraps. Tall buildings behind the mist are quiet, windows dark.I cross the empty street.My head tells me to hurry, but my feet feel clumsy. I glance behind and see no one. Hear no footsteps. Only shadows shrouded in the night rain linger.The rain pummels harder.Thump, … Continue reading a ghostwriter

a call

“Hello.”“Hello there. I’m just calling to let you know that I’m on my way.”“You’re coming to take him.”“Yes.”“Take me, too.”“I’m afraid I can’t do that.”“I don’t wanna be left alone.”“I know it’s hard.”“You’ve taken everybody.”“I’ll come back for you some other time.”“Don’t keep me waiting too long.”“You’ll be fine.”“I’ll have to be. Again. Alright. See you soon, Death.” For What Do You See #122. Continue reading a call

a witness

Yelling and shouting, I heard. Oh, I don’t know about what. I just saw the truck leave the driveway shortly after. I’d heard them argue before. They scream all the time. They don’t talk. They shout. One morning, I recall, she stomped out of the house, screaming, “I’ll kill you.” Then he came out, grabbed her, and went inside with her. The whole time, her … Continue reading a witness