Thief Lane

The moon is rising above the western horizon. A gigantic Hunter's Moon heralding the peak of autumn, full, heavy, brilliant and beautiful. It's shining with a particularly golden intensity, casting a beatific, forgiving light across the gathering gloam. It should be a peaceful, calm scene, a romantic night filled with tender love and happiness. I should feel safe, in your arms tonight. But all I can see as you gaze at me tonight are the shadows swarming deep in your eyes. Those shadows haven't left your eyes since you came back. They appeared suddenly without warning; they've been there ever since you returned - after you went away without a word. I should be happy that you're here by my side again, that you didn't disappear for good and leave me all alone. But every time I look at you now, your pupils won't stop swirling like black holes, and suddenly I can't help feeling like I'm in the company of a complete stranger. Suddenly, I can't shake ...

                                                                 Lily stumbled out of the building and fell to her knees. She felt every pebble through the thin fabric of her gown, a dozen daggers jabbing at her from underneath. Her red hair fell about her shoulders in an ominous halo. When she looked up (minutes, hours later?) she saw them. The stars. So many of them. Were they always this bright? A sprinkle of twinkling white dots, all spread out haphazardly on the dark canvas of night. It reminded her of her life in a way, there was no logic, no aim. No future. As the pain in her knees eased slightly, she took in the cold, crisp air. It tasted of winter and ice on...