Hangry

By Hailey McNamara

Lily’s hair, golden in her picture, was ashen and coarse. Saliva trickled past her chin. Her dull teeth were razor-sharp, a wolf’s envy, while her ears stretched skyward. Mark stood, but clawed fingers gripped his wrist.

Mark didn’t believe in ghost stories, but fur crept past Lily’s neck. When she growled, eyes brimming with blood, Mark wondered if this date had been a good idea.

The waiter approached, balancing a tray, and dropped Lily’s steak before her. Three bites later, golden locks and dull teeth returned. Mark blinked; Lily’s fur and food vanished.

Lily giggled and raised her glass. “A toast.”