I hear them grunt as they nudge each other in the dark, their leg chains clanking around in weary indifference. Long after the cicadas cease their shrill mating songs and the hellish bellows of the cats retreat into the darkness,… Continue Reading
The cattle lay in pyramid stacks like hay. It was a wonder at his age that he could drive the tractor, let alone configure the skulls, and she supposed that’s why she let him do it. West of the Lawton… Continue Reading
When I arrive, the gray-haired woman is pacing the lobby, hands folded behind her. Long, frizzy waves trail the length of her spine. I stand at the plexiglass window by the entrance, where I’m checking myself in, and I try… Continue Reading
The small, brown package that had arrived for my wife contained two bamboo cutlery sets which she was now inspecting at the dining table. In each set was a pair of chopsticks, lacquered and contoured pleasantly to the hand. The… Continue Reading
“Eureka!” the man exclaims to his wife as they settle into Adirondack chairs on their favorite lounging dock, nestled in the shade on the far edge of the lake. “It’s perfect. The end of the rainbow.” The water sparkles gold… Continue Reading
He could hear vague, bubbly rumblings with his ear against her bare belly, her heartbeat a distant drumming. They had both worked up a sweat; it had been some time since they last had some “private time,” as it had… Continue Reading
The last time Greyson made his wife pancakes for dinner, he glimpsed a fly on the kitchen window and, without thinking, flipped his spatula at it, leaving a greasy square on the glass. At the kitchen island his wife didn’t… Continue Reading
Fifteen years and three children ago, George met Dorothy #1 at the wedding of a friend. Theirs is a relatively happy marriage, rather unremarkable, the matrimonial equivalent of vanilla ice cream, no sprinkles. Predictable, reliable. He works as a tax… Continue Reading
When Nurse asks if I want an epidural, I nod my head. Why hurt any more than I have to? I’ve dreaded this part for months. Those nights I laid awake with little feet striking my ribcage and wondering if… Continue Reading
“The old orchard was good to us. Nearly 30 years,” my husband sighs. “But the replanted version will be more efficient.” He shoots me a sideways glance, his invitation to ask. “Do tell.” I smile as I angle my eyes… Continue Reading