Content warning
This story may contain sensitive material or discuss topics that some readers may find distressing. Reader discretion is advised. The views and opinions expressed in this story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Vocal.
stained glass
#snowmicro
She stood alone, tender cheek pressed against cool glass. The frosted panes soothed the ache he left behind. She hadn't bothered to look. No point. She was well versed in bruises and swollen flesh.
Why did she stay?
Shame gnawed at the raw places he loved to pick apart. It was her fault he was strung out on pain meds. Angry at the world. She'd been the one driving.
Thoughts of that night haunted her.
Headlights shone across slick pavement as their loud singing cut through the snowy silence, a stark contrast to the gentle swirling flakes that fell. Wet as they hit the windshield. Wet like the blood that covered the ground after the crash.
A shiver raked down her spine as she relived the nightmare. Her fault.
An unholy screech rent the air, snapping her weary eyes to the alley down below. Feral cats were fighting for scraps in the garbage bin.
If only she chose to fight.
Sighing heavily, she turned to switch position when a familiar form snagged her gaze.
John. The homeless man she'd secretly helped get a job and lodgings. Leaving was supposed to fix things.
And yet he was back.
Her fists slammed into the window, rattling the frame. "Why won't you help yourself?" her voice rasped. "You're pathetic!"
She crumpled to the floor, a heavy weight on her chest because she knew why.
But she didn't want to be a John anymore.
Hands shaking, she pulled out her phone and dialed 9-1-1.
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Masterful proofreading
Zero grammar & spelling mistakes
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
Expert insights and opinions
Arguments were carefully researched and presented
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Keep reading
More stories from Heather Hubler and writers in Fiction and other communities.
Under Branches of Juniper
Snow fell in a thick wondrous rush, covering hills and trails with fluffy white. I was tucked under a hardy bush, shielded from the worst of the storm. The soft silence of dusky evening permeated, yet there was no comfort to be had. The worst had happened.
By Heather Hubler5 months ago in Fiction
Twisting Through the Doorways
A grand bronze-coloured staircase leads nowhere. It is adorned in dim and sensual lights, the golden glimmer of the chandelier adding elegance and richness to the room. This is the biggest room in the unknown home. A house made of multi-sized doors leading to multi-dimensional rooms. Some exist in daylight, some exist sideways against child-like postered walls.
By Oneg In The Arctic3 days ago in Horror
Comments (39)
Great job congratulations
Congrats on Top Story!๐ฅณ
This story rings with authenticity and pain. Really well done! Congratulations on Top Story!
I read this several times before it sunk in; what a unique piece. A+++++
Let's engage with each otherโs content โค๏ธโค๏ธโค๏ธ
Very interesting story
Dang it, Sis, I must have just missed this one when I went on "vacation." This is incredible! Congratulations!
Original and brilliantly done, no wonder this one got T.S.!
Wow, a very powerful and meaningful story. Congrats on Top Story!
A powerfully written story. Lots of emotions and feelings all felt so deeply. Congrats on a great story.
Congratulations on your very important top story
Wow - there are so many layers to this. The internal battle, the frustration, the knowing you need to leave but not feeling able to... all woven tightly and effectively together. Beautiful work. ๐
Vivid conflict here with distinct feelings of shame and anger evoked. Well written!
Nice work here on your top story Heather. Did you write something similar once before? I have a recollection of an accident related micro and thought this was from you? Was wondering if it was adapted for the challenge. ๐ค
It's hard to help ourselves when we don't know where to start, or if it'll even change anything. Will my life be better if I stop this, or do that? The "if" is the problem, but we can't escape it, because weighing the pros and cons is ingrained in our nature. Excellent story, Heather <3
Did I not say I'd be back to say Congrats! Congrats! lol.
Oh my, Heather! I can feel tears welling over that last part. That reached in! โค๏ธ
Very deep and intense
https://youtube.com/shorts/ippxvQBdAgI?si=43LlbQZBEkloW6Me
This was so deserving of a top story! It really strikes a deep place inside me. GREAT piece!!! ๐
Back to say congratulations on your Top Story! ๐๐๐๐๐๐
Awesome!!! Brilliantly written!!!๐โค๏ธโค๏ธ Congratulations on Top Story!!!
How did I miss this one. ๐ ๐ bravo You went deep in this one, the POV. Was emotional and felt real. โWhy won't you help yourself?" her voice rasped. "You're pathetic!" Congratulations
Kudos! Keep excelling in your workโcongratulations!
Heather, it is masterful how you weave such depth into this microfiction piece. I am in awe. Well done! Abuse and hopelessness are practically characters in this short creation.