The Trip (a short, short fairytale)

I apologize for not updating this blog recently. I have been spending a lot of time on editing Compendium and writing Ocularum, as well as my usual work and some unfortunate medical mishaps. Below is a short story that I cal "The Trip." It was written during my MFA residency in Wroxton. The assignment was to re-tell a fairytale. I decided to do a twist on the story the "Robber Bridegroom." I hope you enjoy it!

The Trip

“Come see me,” you said. “It’s not a long distance, and it’s been ages since I’ve seen you.” My toe traced a shape on the wood floor, a slash across the grain, as I pondered your proposition.

“Oh yeah?” I asked. I tried not to let my voice quaver. The vibrations might be sent through the phone and directly into your heart. I didn’t want to hurt you, but I didn’t want to see you either.

But there was no way to avoid it. Perhaps you sensed my hesitation, or perhaps Dad lingered in the doorway, just out of my sight. Either way, he handed me a ticket the very next morning. I di…