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101 Word Short Stories

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A Million and One

June 4, 2025 6 Comments

By Mike Hedlesky

Every red, orange, and pink shade turns the sky into blistered, angry skin. The sun rises with sharp rays peeling away the burn, making way for a new day’s healing blues and whites. A celestial ocean washing a slate clean.

It crashes into my head. Pounds the coastline of my vision.

“Last night was the last night. Today is the first day.” This is the millionth time I have said this to myself. A million times, I have lied, stopped, and started again.

“This time I mean it. I will mean it.”

The words drown out as I refill my glass.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Faith says

    June 4, 2025 at 11:11 am

    I liked this – didn’t know where to was going until the end. Very relatable – alcohol, food, whatever “it” is

    Reply
  2. Janet says

    June 4, 2025 at 11:56 am

    Great piece – despite the sad reality

    Reply
  3. Sharon Murphy says

    June 4, 2025 at 12:39 pm

    Very true. The harsh reality of addiction.

    Reply
  4. Michael Talledes says

    June 5, 2025 at 5:17 pm

    This was amazing. Wasn’t sure where it was going but the ending was surprising.

    Reply
  5. Tracey says

    June 5, 2025 at 6:00 pm

    The reality of addiction. I love how you’ve written this, quite understated but powerful.

    Reply
  6. Purple says

    October 24, 2025 at 1:06 am

    beautiful piece!

    Reply

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