By Elizabeth Powers
It grows in the north corner of the living room and appears to come from beneath the floor boards. The thing is, I’ve pried them up. There doesn’t seem to be a source of any kind.
It’s a red, powdery substance so light that swinging the kitchen door open wafts it further into the room, leaving a faint red residue on the toes of my shoes or the bottom of my purse. The last thing that I need.
I should feel anxious when the specialists come, but what’s the point? They shouldn’t be anywhere near the southwest portion of the house.
This was so cleverly written; I had to read it a couple of times to catch the meaning behind the title!!
Well done!
Thanks Chris! I was hoping some readers might catch that the red substance is fungi AND under the southwest portion of the house is a “real fun guy!” ?
I agree with Chris. Such subtlety and understated menace. A great piece of writing.
Thank you so much for the comment David! It is beautifully written and I am flattered!
I liked the dark turn at the end. Nice!
Thanks Bud Pharo! I’m so glad others appreciate the dark! ?
It’s amazing how well you weave the suspense in such a short amount of time! Well done!!