5 Comments
User's avatar
Nancy Santos's avatar

Excellent story, Charles! And as someone lacking a gallbladder, I appreciate all the toilet humor. 🤣

Expand full comment
Charles Bastille's avatar

Thanks, Nancy. I always am flattered when you send words of encouragement.

Expand full comment
Jenifer Jorgenson's avatar

I’m torn! On the one hand, this story is fantastic — smart, immersive, full of texture, and I loved the dynamic between Hemlock and Annie. On the other hand… you made the dogs the villains! How dare you! 🐶💔

That said, I adored the ending. The slow shift from dread to connection was so well done, and I wasn’t expecting it to hit me emotionally, but it did. Even if I’m still mad at you about the dogs.

Brilliant work.

Expand full comment
Charles Bastille's avatar

Thank you. I love dogs. I hope it showed at the end. :-)

Expand full comment
EllenPepper's avatar

Aw! A sacred puppy! With puppy-dog eyes! Somehow, miraculously not feral!

Expand full comment