#short story series

[oliolioxenfreewrites]

An excerpt from the horror story series I’ll be posting tomorrow morning!

The Retreat

8 months ago…

It was supposed to be a celebratory hike. David had just landed a major distributor for his athleisure wear brand, and they decided to mark the occasion with a challenging trail they had been meaning to try. The weather in Maryland was perfect this time of year—cool and crisp, with a median level heat ideal for a long excursion.

They set out early, with the morning mist still clinging to the mountains. Monique felt on top of the world, hand in hand with David, their laughter echoing through the trees.

About two hours in, they reached a fork in the trail. The left path was well-maintained and led to a popular viewpoint. The right fork was overgrown and marked with a faded sign warning of unstable terrain.

"Let's take the next right," Monique suggested eagerly.

She began to stretch and lifted the back of her coily red-brown hair, which shimmered in the sunlight and tied it into a messy bun, preparing for the next segment of the trail. Her husband's face was filled with nothing, but apprehension.

David gazed skeptically at the ominous path ahead and asked, “Are you sure about this?”

“Oh, c'mon! Where's your sense of adventure, baby?” she teased, a mischievous glint in her eye.

David hesitated. “I don't know, Momo. That sign looks pretty serious.”

But Monique was insistent. “Trust me, it'll be fine. We're experienced hikers. Plus, imagine the view without all the tourists.”

Reluctantly, David agreed, knowing it would make Monique happy. And for the first mile, everything seemed fine; the path was rough but manageable. Then—they reached the cliffside portion...

The trail narrowed dramatically, hugging a sheer rock face with a dizzying drop to the right. Monique led the way with steady, confident strides, her resolve unwavering despite the precarious path. She glanced back periodically to check on David, noticing his forehead crinkle in that way she found endearingly adorable. It always amused her that this 6’2” muscular Italian, so strong and charismatic, could be unnerved by heights.

A twinge of remorse washed over her as she remembered how she had convinced him to come along on this adventure, despite his apprehension. She hoped the stunning views and sense of victory would eventually outrank his current anxiety.

“Momo, we seriously should turn back,” David called out, lagging behind his enthusiastic wife.

“Don’t worry, babe, we’re almost through,” Monique replied, seeing the clearing just a few steps ahead. “Just a little further.”

Those four words would haunt her forever.

A few steps later, she heard a sickening crumble, a sound that now echoes in her mind whenever she closes her eyes or feels anxious. The next thirty seconds shattered her world; the path beneath David's feet gave way. As Monique spun around in horror, she couldn’t even process the scene before her.

“David!” she shouted, reaching out desperately, but she was too far ahead. Their fingertips brushed, and their eyes locked for a split second before her husband plummeted into the abyss. It was the last time she touched or saw her college sweetheart.

The world seemed to slow down as Monique watched David disappear into the void. Her scream echoed through the mountains, a sound of pure anguish that was swallowed by the vast, indifferent wilderness. She fell to her knees, the weight of what had just happened crashing down on her. She could barely breathe, her chest tightening with a mix of shock and terror.

Minutes felt like hours as she scrambled to the edge, hoping against hope to see David clinging to something, anything. But there was nothing—just the sheer drop and the distant sound of rocks tumbling into the chasm below. The reality of the situation began to sink in, and with it came a flood of guilt and regret.

“Why had I convinced him to take this path? How could I have been so careless?!”

The next hours were a blur of frantic calls for help, rescue helicopters, and devastating news. Monique sat there, feeling detached from her body as they asked her all their typical questions; all she could hear was static. Despite the best efforts of the rescue teams, the news came that David hadn't survived the fall. Friends and family were notified, and the reality of the loss began to sink in as everyone tried to come to terms with the sudden tragedy.

In the days and weeks following the funeral, Monique was overwhelmed not only by all-consuming grief but also by a crippling sense of guilt. She found herself trapped in a storm of emotions, unable to escape the constant reminders of his loss and the nagging voice in her head that kept repeating, “If only I had listened to David, if only I had been more cautious, if only I could have saved him.”

Every moment without him felt like a lifetime, and the burden of her guilt grew heavier with each passing day. She often found herself either lost in a bottle of whatever she could find in their extensive stash to avoid leaving the house or endlessly, hopelessly, scrolling through ten years of memories in the darkness of their shared apartment in downtown Maryland. Her photos app mocked her every time she picked up her phone, thanks to the new and taunting 'Featured' section that adorns our technology today. She hadn’t worked or touched her art in months. Unless her twin brother Marcus, or her best friend Ashleigh brought her food—she wouldn’t even eat. She was constantly surrounded by the hall of fame of their love. The awards he won for the prosperity of his athleisure wear business, which she signed over to his family out of respect, still adorned the shelves. His clothes hung in the closet, and his shoes sat by the door as if waiting for him to come home.

It took Ashleigh planning this trip to wake her from her grief-ridden daze; she owed her friend her entire future.

Now, lying in bed in the dark cabin, Monique felt the weight of her actions more acutely than ever. She had come here seeking healing but was now confronting her deepest regrets in the most terrifying way possible. The shadows of the room seemed to press in around her, and the sounds of the forest outside took on an eerie, almost whispering quality.

She closed her eyes, trying to steady her breathing. The image of David’s fall played over and over in her mind, a relentless loop of her greatest nightmare. She clutched the blanket tightly, as if it could shield her from the torment within her own mind.

As dawn began to break, the faint light filtering through the curtains, Monique made a decision. She would confront whatever was taunting her—whether it was the memory of David, her own guilt, or something more sinister lurking in the woods. She needed to face it, to find some semblance of peace.

She owed David that much.

Monique opened her eyes with a deep breath and stared at the ceiling, feeling the first rays of sunlight touch her face. The journey ahead was still uncertain, but she felt a spark of determination for the first time in a long while. The path to healing would be painfully difficult, but she was finally ready to take the first step.

@drchenquill @illarian-rambling @kaylinalexanderbooks @leahpardo-pa-potato @slenders1ckn3ss @somethingclevermahogony @inky-duchess @sassystyl @rotting-moon-writes @highlycosmic @avaseofpeonies @oc-atelier @ceph-the-ghost-writer @paeliae-occasionally @davycoquette @unforgettable-sensations @hissorrow22 @boredwritergirl @scorpiothesaint @thewrathoffemaleragem @spookyceph @enne-uni if interested in joining or being removed, just let me know! :)

[darkherolovercroissant]

~Library of Dreams~

Welcome to the brand new masterlist, the old one needed a new look and for some reason it wouldn’t open half of what I had, so I decided to redo it.

What can you expect from me: Fanfic, song titled stories, fantasy au.

Topics: COD, RDR2, Fantasy au stories and much more.

~CALL OF DUTY~

-Simon Ghost Riley

-Captain Price

-Kyle Gaz Garrick

-Alejandro Vargas

-John Soap MacTavish

~Red Dead Redemption 2~

-Arthur Morgan

-Charles Smith

-John Marston

~Fantasy AU Stories~

-Six Dragons of Legend

-Castles Crumbling

-Where Did They Go?

-A New Realm

-Queen of Kings

-The Winters Edge

-Roar of the Dragons

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[nikiabella]

Finite —

We have built this life together over a decade. I have watched your wrinkles grow, slowly, but surely. I have watched your physique change and your soul enlarge.

I have waited a very long time for you. It had been centuries since my heart had felt the way you made it feel my love. I’ve had to heal from disappointment after disappointment. I’ve loved through wars and plagues against my own better judgment.

I’ve made a big mistake now. The sound of your heart against mine is a drug. The way the rhythm picks up as you enter me during intimacy, the way I hear every whimper and sigh from your body. The way I hunger for you and I must control myself because you don’t know.

What a treat.

A forbidden treat I have held onto for far too long. Here, I am loving through another plague, another war, another era of social unrest. I let myself drown in a decade of my desires. How selfish of me. I thought by this age I’d know better, but I am nothing but a wounded being finally finding my place. Still human. Never changes.

What will you do when I tell you? What will you say to me? How will you look at me? Will you look at me at all?

As I stand in this kitchen, watching you make your sandwich, I hold back tears. I can’t deny anymore that I am a selfish being. How selfish am I? Am I selfish enough to take your life away from you?

Starting the “Finite” series.

[sabs-scribbles-and-soliloquies]

sab ay books → between touch and time

“Welcome back.” My eyes snapped open. Huh? “Would you like to answer a few questions?”

[saiprudhviksp]

Skeleton Detective and Teenager Werewolf Short Series by Kosuri Sai Prudhvi ( Follow my account for more like this )

( Note : The images that I am using are completely from Ai generated from Lexica.com . I use these images because I want to walkthrough my story and tell audience about my imagination.)

First Episode : Something Comes from another dimension

There were many gangsters from Eastbridge , Northbridge and well WestBridge gangsters too , but one stood out as their leader: Darren Bluehead. Darren ruled Westbridge without drawing the attention of the police or the public. His ultimate goal was to bring the entire city under his control and become the most powerful gangster in town.

“Darren! Why did you call us? What’s the matter?” asked one of the gangsters in the group.

“Ladies and gentlemen… I’ve called you here because I have a plan that could not only change our fortunes but also make us incredibly rich,” said Darren.

“But how? The police presence in the city is growing. It was never like this before… Ahh, the good times are gone, my friend,” said Granny Roger, one of the most powerful gangsters from Eastbridge.

“I know, my friend,” Darren replied. “For years, the police and so-called heroes have been invading our space like it was nothing. But now, the time has come to put an end to it once and for all. To achieve that, I bring you someone extraordinary — not a man, not a woman, but a being from another universe. Let me introduce… The Oracle from the planet Void Zero,” announced Darren.

“This is my new friend, the Oracle,” Darren announced. “He has come to help us with our operations. I know you’re wondering why a being from another universe is here and what his purpose is. Well, the Oracle will not only give us ideas but also use his magic to make our wishes come true.”

“This demon… why?” one of the gangsters muttered nervously. “He looks so strange. No wonder he’s helping you, but will he really help us? Look at that eerie smile of his. It makes me wonder what’s in store for us. He’ll destroy us all, mark my words!”

See ! I told you oracle can do many things like magic and whatever “ said Darren .

“Should we read this manual?” one of the gangsters asked, squinting at the letter like it was written in hieroglyphics.

“Just sign it, you moron! It’s not a novel!” Darren snapped, slapping the pen into his hand.

“What a bunch of idiots. How did you guys even manage to become gangsters like this?” Oracle said, shaking their head in disbelief.

After that every gangster signed the letter , the waited for the oracle to respond .

“ Now the game begins . See you later you bunch of idiots “ said Oracle .

What?!” said Darren, looking confused.

EastBridge town became Troll Mafia with zombie mafia on their hand under the control of Granny Roger .

and at last Westbridge town became Animal Mafia .

“Darren! I told you, that oracle being turned us into animals , and now he’s vanished. What are we going to do?” asked one of the gangsters.

“You fools!” Darren snapped. “Can’t you see? He turned us into these things for a reason,” he continued. “With these new forms, no one can recognize us. This is our chance to get everything done. The police and the public won’t even know who we are. Now, who’s going to stop us?” Darren laughed maniacally.

As everyone cheered for Darren, a man who had been turned into a mouse raised a question.

“Guys, now that we’ve become these creatures, does anyone know when we’ll turn back into humans?” asked Mr. Mice. ( who turned into mice by oracle’s curse ) .

“Oh, for goodness’ sake, I forgot to ask that!” said Darren. In a fit of anger, Darren threw Mr. Mice into a nearby dustbin.

“Why is it always me?” said Mr. Mice. “Now, who is going to stop me?” Darren muttered to himself. “Back to work, everyone,” he commanded.

Over time, the gangsters realized that the magic only worked at night, and during the day, everything returned to normal. The police on the other hand , had no clue what is happening and who is behind all of this .

The Oracle, observing all this, had another plan in mind. Will he betray Darren? What is Darren’s plan? Who is this Oracle ? Why did he came to earth ? Who is gonna stop these gangsters? Stay tuned to find out!

THE END OF FIRST EPISODE

Upcoming :

Episode 2: Intro of the true heroes ( Release date : 1st Dec )

“What are you looking at me for? Come back next week. This is just the beginning . Don’t miss the 2nd episode on Dec 1st. ”

[marattok]

Elena

Once upon a time, in a small town nestled among rolling hills, there lived a young artist named Elena. She spent her days painting the beauty of nature that surrounded her, finding solace in the vibrant colors on her canvas. One sunny afternoon, while sketching by the riverbank, she met a charming musician named Alex. He played his guitar with such passion that it stirred something within her soul.They soon fell in love, their hearts beating in harmony with the sweet melody of their burgeoning romance. Alex would serenade Elena as she painted, filling the air with music that matched the whispers of the wind through the trees. They spent endless days exploring the countryside together, discovering hidden paths and secret meadows where they would dance under the starlit sky.As their love blossomed, Elena's paintings grew more vibrant, capturing the ethereal essence of their connection. Alex found inspiration in her art, composing songs that mirrored the depth of their bond. They were like two halves of a whole, weaving their dreams and desires into an intricate tapestry of love.And so, in that quaint town among the hills, Elena and Alex found a love that transcended time and space—a love as eternal as the changing seasons and as beautiful as the masterpiece they created together.

[black-suns-rim]

Audio story 4 is out on @thenomadclan ‘s YouTube channel

[theindexproject]

The voting has been cast, but make sure to follow and subscribe so you don't miss the next chapter and other stories! https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndex Also join the conversation on the Discord channel! https://discord.gg/zy25mxTuht

[thespirala]

The Spirala - Introduction

Greetings. My name is Kayla Pellegrini, a poet and author/storyteller. I’ve written and self-published a poetry book titled ‘Rhetoric Maniac: 202 Chaotic Poems’, which is only available on Amazon. I’m transitioning to short storytelling, about an idea I’ve had ever since childhood to bring to life. The goal is to pitch my short story series to publishers once the pilot or first short story is complete. 

I will be using Tumblr as a blog to post drafted quotes, writings, and concept art (I’m not an artist, but I enjoy drawing) related to my short story series ‘The Spirala’ in hopes that maybe it'll become something influential and bold. 

The Spirala is a fictional short story series under the sci-fi and fantasy genre categories. It’s about the supernatural for young adults due to future sensitive topics. 

With a diverse cast of authentic characters from various backgrounds, please feel free to join me in this uncertain, yet exciting journey where we explore the relationship and existences between the dead and the living, the past and the present, and what could become of the future. 

My ask box is always open for any questions or concerns about The Spriala or me. I will be sure to post the following on the drafted logline that’s based on the series as a whole.

Thank you dearly for reading and I hope you can stay with me.

Write like crazy,

Kayla Pellegrini

[listen2lizzy]

Just so you all know I don't write anything over 18+ so please keep that in mind while requesting :)

[meagankimberly]

New Friends

A few years ago I started sharing a short sci-fi story I wrote for a writing challenge called “Better Than Fiction” that I just really enjoyed. I posted the first four parts back in 2020 and never got around to posting the conclusion, but it’s finally here! You can catch up with the first four installments here: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 New Friends Image by chanwit whanset from…

[oliolioxenfreewrites]

The Retreat I

8 months after the accident…

Monique gripped the steering wheel of her weathered Subaru, stealing glances at her best friend, Ashleigh, in the passenger seat. The winding mountain road stretched before them, an endless ribbon cutting through the dense, shadowy forest. As the sun reached its apex in the sky, casting long fingers of light through the trees, Monique felt a familiar tightness in her chest.

The radio played softly, filling the silence between them. Ashleigh’s eyes were fixed on the view outside, but she could sense Monique’s unease.

“You know, this is exactly what we need,” Ashleigh said, her voice gentle yet firm. “Getting away will help clear your mind.”

Monique sighed, her grip tightening. “I don’t know, Ash. What if this is just another failed attempt to escape my life?”

“It won’t be,” Ashleigh insisted, turning to face her friend. “You’ve been through so much, Mo. I know you’re stronger than you realize. It’s time you remembered that. We both need this time away to breathe and heal.”

Monique glanced at Ashleigh, seeing the determination in her eyes. “I hope you’re right,” she muttered, returning her gaze to the road.

At thirty-two, Monique wore her experiences like invisible scars. Her once-bright smile now seemed forced, a mask to hide the turmoil beneath the surface. This vacation was meant to be an escape, a chance to outrun the shadows of guilt and grief that had dogged her steps since that fateful night.

The car rounded another bend, and Ashleigh gasped softly. “Hey Mo, look!”

Their friendship had been a lifeline for Monique, a bond forged through years of shared experiences, laughter, and tears. Ashleigh’s unwavering support and infectious optimism had always been a source of strength for Monique, especially during the darkest times. Despite the heavy weight of her recent past, Monique felt a flicker of hope as they ventured deeper into the mountains, guided by Ashleigh’s constant belief in her resilience.

As they approached the clearing, a cabin emerged from the wilderness. Its weathered exterior spoke of years of neglect but also held a mysterious charm. Like hollow eyes, the windows watched their arrival with curiosity and anticipation.

Monique eased the car to a stop, killing the engine. “Home sweet home,” she said sarcastically. The silence was so loud that the only sound was the tick of the cooling engine and their shallow breaths.

Monique’s feeble attempt at humor fell flat in the eerie stillness. Neither woman moved to exit the car. Monique’s mind drifted, remembering her previous argument with her brother Marcus. He had insisted this trip would help her heal, but Monique couldn’t take the mix of pity and encouragement in his eyes. It was her fault David was gone. Her actions had shattered so many lives.

A sudden movement in the trees snapped Monique back to the present. She tensed, eyes scanning the tree line. “Did you see that?”

Ashleigh frowned, peering into the gathering darkness. “See what?”

For a heartbeat, Monique thought she glimpsed a person standing motionless among the pines. Then it was gone, leaving her to wonder if it had been a trick of the fading light.

“It’s nothing,” Monique said, more to convince herself than Ashleigh. “Come on, let’s get our stuff inside before dark.”

They exited the car, the crunch of gravel under their feet echoing through the silent forest. Monique couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched as they retrieved their bags from the trunk.

Ashleigh bumped her shoulder playfully against Monique’s. “Hey, this is supposed to be fun, remember? Two weeks of rest, relaxation, and zero cell service.”

Monique managed to put up a small smile, grateful for her friend’s unrelenting support. “You’re right. I don’t think I could’ve done this alone.”

As they approached the cabin, keys jingling in Monique’s hand, a chill wind whipped through the clearing. It carried the scent of pine and something else – something old and vaguely unsettling.

Monique hesitated at the threshold, her hand on the tarnished doorknob. This was their refuge, a chance to heal and move forward. Yet, as she gazed into the cabin’s shadowy interior, she couldn’t shake the feeling that they had made a terrible mistake.

With a deep breath, Monique pushed open the door. It swung inward with a mournful creak, revealing musty darkness within. Neither noticed the gleaming eyes watching from the forest’s edge as she and Ashleigh stepped inside.

The musty air inside the cabin tickled Monique’s nose as she fumbled for a light switch. A soft click and warm light flooded the room, revealing a cozy interior that immediately dispelled any lingering unease. The cabin’s weathered exterior had hidden a warm, inviting space that promised comfort and relaxation.

“Wow, Ash,” Monique breathed, taking in the rustic charm of the living room. A stone fireplace dominated one wall, flanked by well-worn but comfortable-looking furniture. The wooden walls were adorned with old photographs and paintings of the surrounding wilderness, adding to the cabin’s quaint appeal.

“This place is pretty nice,” Monique said, her tone lightening.

Ashleigh beamed, already hauling their bags inside. “I told you! I found this place online while Marcus and I searched for venues for the big day. It had great reviews from other guests for a quick reprieve.”

They began exploring the cabin, starting in the living room. Monique noticed a large, plush rug beside the fireplace and a stack of firewood beside it. A sturdy wooden coffee table held an assortment of nature magazines and a few board games.

“I can already picture us cozying up here with a fire going,” Monique said, her spirits lifting.

“Exactly,” Ashleigh agreed. “This is our sanctuary for the next two weeks.”

They moved into the kitchen, a small but well-equipped space with modern appliances that contrasted with the rustic charm of the rest of the cabin. The countertops were clean and stocked with basic cooking supplies, and a welcome basket on the table held locally sourced produce and a bottle of wine.

“Look at this,” Monique said, picking up a small jar of homemade jam. “They thought of everything.”

They continued their tour, finding a bathroom with surprisingly modern fixtures. The shower was spacious, and the vanity was stocked with fluffy towels and various bathroom products. Monique smirked as she noticed the stockpile of feminine hygiene products.

“I’m not sure how she knew to stock up on feminine hygiene products,” Monique said with a raised eyebrow. I guess you told her it was us, huh?”

Ashleigh laughed. “Yeah, I mentioned it was two women staying. Figured it wouldn’t hurt to ask for the essentials.”

“I’m impressed; this is way nicer than I expected,” Monique said.

“Wait until you see the bedrooms,” Ashleigh replied, leading the way upstairs.

The main bedroom was the highlight of the cabin. It featured a large bed with a rustic wooden frame dressed in cozy quilts and soft pillows. French doors opened onto a covered porch that overlooked a babbling stream. Monique stepped outside, inhaling the fresh mountain air and listening to the soothing sound of the water.

“This view is unbelievable,” she said, turning to Ashleigh. “I can’t believe you found this place.”

Ashleigh joined her on the porch. “I knew we needed somewhere special. Somewhere, we could relax and disconnect from everything.”

The second bedroom was smaller but equally charming. It had a single bed and a window that offered a view of the dense forest. Ashleigh placed her bag on the bed and turned to Monique.

“This will be my room. You get the primary suite,” she said with a smile.

Monique felt a surge of gratitude. “Thanks, Ash. Really.”

“I’ve got a whole itinerary planned, too! I promised hiking, yoga, and that winery visit. Oh, and I brought some art supplies for you. I thought you might want to get back into sketching.”

Monique’s throat tightened at her friend’s thoughtfulness. She hadn’t touched her art supplies since before the accident.

“You’re spoiling me on this trip, Ash. Seriously.”

“You just call me Big Momma, Ash.” Ashleigh responded with a terrible impression of a masculine man who provides a special kind of “sugar.” A slight smirk sneaked in, about to make her break character.

Monique looks at her and says, “Anything for you, Big Momma.”

They fell onto the bed after bursting into laughter. After regaining their composure, the two returned downstairs when Monique surprised her friend and wrapped her in an affectionate embrace that symbolized their 20 years of friendship and history. After unpacking, they spent the next hour or so discussing the latest gossip from home. Monique felt more at ease than she had in a while, thanks to the cozy vibe and Ashleigh’s company.

They decided to stroll before dinner as the sun dropped below the tree line, leaving long shadows across the clearing. The forest trail was alive with the sounds of birds settling in for the night and small animals rustling in the underbrush.

“You know, Mo, sometimes all we need is a little nature to remind us of what life is really about,” Ashleigh said softly as they passed the stream. “Two weeks of peace will do wonders for your soul.”

Monique nodded, taking a deep breath of the pine-scented air, fighting her mind’s attempts to remember the hikes with David. He epitomized getting outside and getting to it. She’d thought of him fondly instead of with heavy guilt. A faint sense of hope was felt for the first time in months. Maybe she could start getting better here.

Returning to the cabin, they fell into an easy rhythm of setting dinner together. Ashleigh pulled out the fresh trout they had picked up on the way during the drive-up while Monique set the table. Preparing a meal brought a sense of normalcy that Monique hadn’t realized she’d been missing.

“Who knew we’d make such a great kitchen team?” Monique remarked with a small smile as she arranged the trout on a plate.

“Remember our college days? We were practically gourmet chefs with a hot plate and a microwave,” Ashleigh replied with a laugh, tearing open a packet of herbs.

Monique chuckled. “Yeah, those were the days. Having real food and a real kitchen for a change.”

“Exactly. “And, real friends who stick by your side no matter what,” Ashleigh said, her tone more serious as she met Monique’s eyes.

Monique felt a warmth spread through her chest. “I don’t know what I’d do without you, Ash.”

“Luckily for you, you’ll never have to find out,” Ashleigh replied with a wink.

Monique nodded, feeling a sense of contentment that had been forgotten for far too long. Ashleigh’s promise of a peaceful retreat was beginning to make her feel like things might get better.

They settled to eat, savoring the freshly cooked trout and reminiscing about their road trip. The cabin filled with the delicious aroma of lemon pepper seasonings and thyme, and their laughter echoed through the rustic space.

“This trout was a great idea,” Monique said, licking her fingers. “We should stop by that market again on the way back.”

“Deal,” Ashleigh agreed, holding her fork in a mock toast. “To our first bestie dinner in the cabin!”

“First bestie dinner in the cabin!” Monique echoed, clinking her fork against Ashleigh’s.

After dinner, Monique and Ashleigh settled onto the cabin’s porch, glasses of wine in hand. The surrounding forest hummed with the evening chorus of crickets and frogs. The air was incredible, and the night sky revealed a blanket of stars.

“To, new beginnings,” Ashleigh said, raising her glass of wine.

Monique clinked her glass against her dear friend’s, a genuine smile tugging at her lips. “To a new beginning.”

They sipped their wine in comfortable silence, listening to the symphony of nature around them. Monique felt a sense of peace she hadn’t experienced in a long time.

“So,” Ashleigh began, her voice gentle, “how are you doing, Mo? And don’t give me that ‘I’m fine’ nonsense. I was afraid we’d have to admit you soon enough!”

Monique laughed wryly, then sighed, swirling the wine into her glass. “Honestly? I don’t know. Some days are… better than others.” She paused, struggling to find the words.

“It’s just… everywhere I go back home, I see him. David, I mean. Or I see the looks people give me like they’re just waiting for me to break down.”

Ashleigh reached out and gently squeezed Monique’s hand. “He was your college sweetheart, turned husband, Mo; I can’t even begin to understand how you feel. You are so strong for even making it through the day, even though all you want to do is curl up into a ball and hit ‘Do Not Disturb.’”

“It’s a pain I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy, and please know I appreciate you and this beautiful cabin you got for us. I just…” Monique trailed off; her gaze fixed on the darkening forest.

“I can’t help feeling like I’m running away.”

“You’re not running away,” Ashleigh insisted. “You’re taking time to heal; that’s why we’re here. There’s a huge difference.”

Monique nodded slowly. “I guess so. It’s just difficult to see it that way sometimes.”

Ashleigh leaned back in her chair, looking up at the sky. “Something about being out here makes everything else seem so small. The stars, the trees, the sounds of the forest—it’s like a reminder that there’s so much more to life than the pain we carry.”

Monique followed her gaze, the stars twinkling above them. “You’re right. I’ve missed this. Just being able to look up and feel… connected to something bigger.”

“Let’s make a pact,” Ashleigh said suddenly, turning to face Monique. “For the next two weeks, we focus on the present. No dwelling on the past, no worrying about the future. Just being here, right now, is all we need.”

Monique’s eyes met Ashleigh’s, and she saw the sincerity and determination in her friend’s gaze. “I can do that,” she agreed, “for you and me.”

Ashleigh grinned, holding out her pinky finger. “Pinky swear?”

Monique laughed; a sound that felt foreign yet incredible. She linked her pinky with Ashleigh’s. “I pinky swear.”

They stayed on the porch longer, wrapped in blankets, occasionally pointing out an exceptionally bright star or a constellation they recognized. The conversation flowed easily, with light-hearted banter and more profound reflections.

“So, how are the wedding plans going?” Monique asked, genuinely curious.

Ashleigh’s eyes lit up. “Oh, Marc and I have been so busy. It’s coming together, but you know how stressful it can get. Finding the right venue, finalizing the guest list, and don’t even get me started on the dress fittings.”

Monique smiled. “I can’t wait to see you walk down the aisle. You’re going to look stunning.”

Ashleigh squeezed her hand. “And you will be right there beside me, Miss. Maid of Honor, and all. You know I couldn’t do this without you, Mo.”

Monique’s heart warmed at her friend’s words. “I’m honored. Truly.”

“Who else besides my ride-or-die would I want to marry my brother?”

They continued to sip their wine after sharing a giggle. As the night grew colder, they decided to head inside. They secured the cabin, double-checking the locks on the doors and windows before settling into their respective rooms.

As Monique lay in bed, drifting off to sleep to the gentle babbling of the stream outside, she felt a sense of calm wash over her, the weight of the past months lifting ever so slightly. For the first time in a long while — she allowed herself to hope this retreat might bring the healing she desperately needed.

She was about to drift off when a faint sound reached her ears—something soft like gravel crunching underfoot. Monique’s eyes snapped open, and she strained to hear her heart racing. The sound was muffled but distinct, moving slowly around the cabin.

She held her breath, eyes fixed on the shadowy outline of the window. For a moment, she thought she saw a flicker of movement—a vague, shadowed figure blending into the night. She started peering out of the window when she was proven correct by being startled back into bed, playing asleep to avoid detection. The figure paused, leering into the window, no longer lingering at the forest’s edge from their arrival. She and Ashleigh were on the second floor of the log cabin; how could they have possibly gotten up here? Monique’s heart began to pound in her chest as she scrambled to find her phone and turn on the flashlight. Immediately after she looked up, the figure disappeared, leaving only an eerie silence in the master cabin suite. Shadows cast on her wall began forming the same silhouette she’d just seen a moment prior.

Monique exhaled shakily, feeling quite irrational. She told herself it must be a trick of the moonlight and her overactive imagination, but the unease lingered. She instinctively knew she should check on Ashleigh, but trepidation kept her in bed, her intuition faltering in the oppressive silence. The promise of peace in this dense forest now felt tenuous, as if the darkness outside held secrets that were just beginning to stir.

Tag List

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if you're interested in joining or being removed, just let me know! :)

[darkherolovercroissant]

To Understand This

Short Story Series

Alejandro Vargas x Plus sized WOC Reader

This is a Bridgerton era style fic requested by @shadofireshinobi

This was supposed to be published in 2023, but Tumblr kept flagging it and crashing before I could save so I attempted this for the billionth time.

Warnings: Mature themes, mature language, smut, my writing, and anything I come across as I write this.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The hallways, once echoed the footsteps of happy children running while their father chased them while laughing himself.

Now, they echo the thousands of thoughts that have been circulating through my head as I walk down them. They used to hold such innocence and light, now it’s dark and full of fear.

The doors open and mother weakly smiled, she’s still grieving the inevitable pain of this family. It was no secret that father wasn’t in good health. He was dying slowly, I like to think he’s been trying to fight in order to see his family all in good hands first, but we all know that the illness takes its time. Dancing with its victims in a taunting manner.

Father had five children, but not one of them was a son, as such matters were obvious, father had no eligible child to pass the estate or fortune to. As such terrible laws, deemed us ladies unequal to a man, we couldn’t have been given much than the clothes on our backs.

Mother took my hand and her eyes were red from many unfortunate events. She guided me to father’s office, where my fate had been decided by a bunch of men that father knew, well before I was even born.

The doors open and the council of men had risen from their chairs and turned to welcome us as they handed mother the final papers.

“Colonel Vargas has agreed to your husband’s wishes. The colonel and your daughter will marry and the estate will be handed to him, as your husband wasn’t able to produce a male heir. Of course, no offence to you m’lady” one of the many men spoke with such professionalism.

“I hope my next words don’t carry insult towards you, but I’m on a quite busy schedule and unfortunately I must hurry this along so I can return to my men.” A deeper voice echoed from my left.

I turn to see who I gathered was the colonel himself. Much older than me, but still younger than the other men in this room. He was highly decorated and carried himself with such pride. The age difference between us was as obvious as the setting sun told us that nightfall was upon us. At least ten years to my current age, but it was common for older men to marry younger women, so they could give them as many children as they wanted.

Mother nodded and the men filed out of the once crowded room. Now, despite two remaining, it felt like I was alone in said room.

“I know this isn’t what you wanted, believe me when I say, that I begged your father to choose one of his other daughters, b-”

I raise my hand gently in a motion to stop her. I turn and I looked at my mother’s face very carefully. Taking in every small detail, maybe one day, this would be me and what I’ll look like. Full of pain and regret, just simply wishing it wouldn’t happen.

I nod my head and she sniffles before heading out to where father was laying no doubt. Probably to fill his final days with cursing him out for all the pain this has caused, but apologizing right after for ever causing him pain in his final moments.

————

The sunlight warming up the gardens as I walked through them, with my mind wandering as fast as my feet. So many questions about why this was happening. I was the one that refused to take in my duties growing up. Where my sisters all sought out company, I preferred to remain independent as I loved how peaceful the silence was. Father always said I was the most difficult to get through when it came to important matters.

He’d sit with me when I was younger and often told me what I should expect when I reached a mature age, but I simply couldn’t be more uninterested. I wasn’t interested in finding a husband and settling down.

I dreamed of having the biggest gardens, full of the prettiest flowers. I dreamed of having the biggest library, full of books that begged to be read. I dreamed of having that peaceful melody of sweet solitary playing in the background while I danced through life.

I dreamed of remaining independent until i finally came across someone that fit perfectly into my life.

I dreamed of having a choice, but atlas, I should’ve known better than to dream of things that could never happen. I was a foolish little girl, but the foolishness would end tonight, as tonight, my life would be made at the hands of others.

[nikiabella]

I still want to work on my “Finite” book, but I’ve started something on Substack called “Infinite Consumption”.

The first story (the first pic) is an introduction to Florence. A vampire in love, but through torment.

The second post will be an introduction to Alvira. A human with powers and extreme moral dilemmas.

I’ll share more when I have more, but the first character is up!

[the-royal-blue-network]

The Paula and Dani Series

Welcome to The Big Apple, the city of lights, big dreams, and The LaVine family. At the head of The LaVine family is Pauly LaVine, better known to the NYPD and FBI as The Faceless Man. With his daughter, Paula LaVine by his side, Pauly is able to move within the shadows of New York City!

But when Paula meets a mysterious woman in the bathroom of one of her father's nightclubs, things get a little complicated.

Will Paula be able to juggle being in a relationship whilst projecting the identity and nature of the family business, or will one come at the cost of the other?

CLICK THE TITLE AND READ THIS STORY TODAY!

[the5thhuman]

Imergenation Series - The God (Full Episode)