High Stakes

Should I love youTake hold of youOur first kiss would be your lastBlood pulsatingSeeping, satingTaking more than I had asked.This lifeless life out of the sunExiled from God’s own planIts beastly feast that’s fit for noneWas not how I began.Still, you near meDon’t you fear me?I can suck you into hellNoI’ll leave youLet me grieve … Continue reading High Stakes →

The Abomination

Father Marc assumed his usual seat in the front pew of St Jude Church and unfastened his collar. Each evening after mass the old Jesuit liked to collect his thoughts for several minutes before extinguishing the candles and clearing the altar. His church had a cheery interior by day but sunset draped a grey cowl … Continue reading The Abomination →

Thank Queue

“I’m watching you,” the voice came down the phone.“Where are you?” I asked, pulling into the car park.“Drive straight on until you see a yellow Smart Car. I’m just past it on the right.”“Did you say yellow Smart Car?”“I know, don’t even...”“Who in their right mind drives around in a yellow Smart Car?”“Banana Man.”“Who’s Banana … Continue reading Thank Queue →

In Emergency: Break Class

We sent the students home todayAnd then wrote off the yearAgreeing we would all downplayThe panic and the fear.The younger ones all whooped and cheeredAs soon as they were toldThen out the door they disappearedTo watch events unfold.The seniors nervously dispersedFirst, shell-shocked, then resignedThis endgame they had not rehearsedWould leave some friends behind.Worse still, I … Continue reading In Emergency: Break Class →

Dead Giveaway

"I'm writing my will," I announced. "Oh my God!" Alison covered her mouth. "Are you dying? Can I get you something? A glass of water?" "No, I'm not dying, but if I were I hope to God there'd be more on offer than tap water." "Save it for your nurse," Alison fired back. "You scared … Continue reading Dead Giveaway →