First Place (a tie!)
Before I Go to Sleep by Karen Crawford
My father tucks me in. Ice-cold hands. Chilly breath. Hushed voice. Goodnight Moon.
My eyes water. But y-y-you’re d-d-dead.
No son, he says, you are.
***
My Ex in the Airwaves by Betty Joyce Nash
The radio dial jumps from classical to country, me singing through static with that cheatin’ heart, me falling to pieces, in those arms of air.
***
2nd Place
Evening by Dave Alcock
Only after her letterbox eyes, the doorstep kisses and bubbling spaghetti, the bathtub giggles and bedtime story, did he remember that she still wasn't real.
***
3rd Place:
Together Again by Cheryl Snell
Dad must’ve been watching over us, that’s why the porch bulb wouldn’t die. It finally did, but not before flaring once more, brightly. Hi, Mama.
CONGRATS TO ALL OF THE WINNERS! THANK YOU ALL FOR ENTERING THE CONTEST! I ENJOYED READING THE STORIES AND AS ALWAYS, IT WAS VERY HARD TO DECIDE..
Thanks again, Meg. These contests are great! I love reading what people come up with.
Thanks! Love participating, the work, always inspires