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101 Word Short Stories

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Poisoned Chalice

June 10, 2026 2 Comments

By Violet Goldstein

I dreamt of a hawk that stared with your predatory eyes. Waking, my cheek still felt the hard slap of your hand. A woman’s lot, you called it.

I pummelled herbs in the mortar and mixed them surreptitiously into your drink.

From my chamber’s window, I watched as you strode the courtyard to the groom holding your steed. You struck him, yanked the stallion by the reins, mounted, rode away. You left me stranded, caged.

I pictured you, as you would be soon; in seizure, slipping the saddle, lying still on soft grass. My heart leapt knowing you would not return.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Patti R. says

    June 10, 2026 at 12:05 pm

    Love this! Poetic murder at its best! Beautiful language.

    Reply
  2. Ranabrata Ray says

    June 11, 2026 at 12:17 am

    The first and the last para read like a poem.

    Reply

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