Parasailing

Last time had been exhilarating, joyful and free.

But now, she stood harnessed on the beach, filled with dread.

Prayers swirled through her heart as the boat sped off.

Suddenly, she was aloft, laughing aloud.

Tiny ant people waved, in slow motion.

Then, gusting winds violently shook the sail, and fear crushed her.

God, When will this be Over??

After The Bars Close

The yelling was endless: vile and hate-filled. She huddled in bed, heart pounding.

"I'm going to kill you!" she heard.

A thud.

Then, silence.

Terror filled her as she leaped from bed and ran to the den.

Her mother lay crumpled on the cold linoleum floor.

"Mama!" she shrieked.

She didn't even know how to call the police.

Maid Service

Stomach churning, she pushed her heavy cart down the corridor.
"Housekeeping."
Nervously fingering the eviction notice tucked deeply into her uniform pocket, she entered Room 317. Mingled odors of aftershave, cigarettes, and stale beer assaulted her; chewing tobacco spit carelessly filled the sink.
As usual, No Tip.
Resignedly she worked, wondering how on earth she would make ends meet.