Read Parts 1-5 **Content Warning:** This story contains depictions of and allusions to the abuse of vulnerable populations, such as those with disabilities, LGBTQA+, and children of abusive parents, and may contain content that some may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. “Michael.”   Gasping awake against the dim light and my heart gallops. My ...

Lula Mae Darling melts behind the cash register of a gas station off Interstate 95. Through the translucent cigarette ads, a faded, peeling South of the Border billboard glows into the night; its hypnotic imagery pressures children into every parent’s nightmare: a roadside amusement pit stop money guzzler. She’s never been. She doesn’t even know ...

“The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). Whatever you do, don’t believe the devil’s voices. He’ll take over your mind if you let him. After all, he’s the one who wants you to think he doesn’t ...