By Marie Anderson
At five, she’s become dangerously alluring.
I’m like a vampire, but it’s never blood I crave.
I gaze at her from the doorway, watching her read. So smart she is, already reading chapter books. But intelligence can’t protect her.
She looks up. Sees me. Smiles.
I tremble.
How can I keep her safe? I’ve no wooden stake. Sunlight can’t incinerate me. But outside our vacation home’s windows, Lake Michigan’s drowning waters beckon.
“Your mom is in the kitchen,” I say. “I’m heading out for a swim.”
“Can I come too?”
“Sorry, sweetie. I’m going too far today.”
She sighs.
“Bye, Daddy.”
So much unsaid, but understood nevertheless. A truly great piece of writing. Kudos.
In a different world, this would happen more often. Sickos recognizing themselves for what they are before damaging a child. Thought provoking and well written.
Thank you for reading and for your insightful comments, Lisa.
Thank you, Kevin!
yes very dark
Thank you for reading it, Matt, and for posting your comment!
What a powerful story. So much there with so few words.
Thank you, Yolanda, for reading it and posting your good comment.
So much said in so few words. Nice job, Marie. You managed to creep us out then pull us back in.
Thank you for reading my story, Marge. I like that “creep” verb you used 🙂
In just a few words, and the order in which they are placed, you were able to conjure up a variety of emotions in me, the reader.
Thank you for reading it, Margie, and for your good comments
Disconcerting, to say the least. Very good story, Marie.
Thank you, Greg!
Great story, Marie! Very dark indeed.
Thank you, Jane!
Fantastic, sad drabble!
Thank you, Kmfollia! 🙂
A very disturbing story, very well written.
Thank you for reading my story, Bud, and for posting your comments.
Very creepy and dark … with a terrific ending. Amazed you got so much into 101 words.
Thank you for reading my story, Maggie! I appreciate your comments!
Chilling. Well written and thought provoking.
Thank you for reading my story, Pamela, and especially thank you for posting your good comments!