shortstory

  • Jamaican Flute

    Jamaican Flute

    A musician recalls his journey from a vibrant life in Jamaica to a struggling existence under an awning in a Los Angeles strip mall. Despite years of touring and sending money home, he feels trapped and disconnected. Encountering a woman offering food triggers his resentment, yet playing his flute rekindles his spirit and sense of…

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  • Velvet Toast

    Velvet Toast

    In a dimly lit room, a woman lounges on a sofa, unconscious and under the influence. A man enters, eyeing her with a mix of pity and disdain. After observing her, he sets the sofa on fire and escapes into the rain-soaked alley, leaving behind the chaos and flickering flames.

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  • CVS Psychic

    CVS Psychic

    Hair dye, nail polish, crazy glue, birthday card and gum. I repeat these words over and over in my head like a mantra. Don’t want to forget anything. Without a list, I know I’ll wind up with a basket full of makeup I don’t need, along with random things like tiny stuffed teddy bears and…

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  • Exit Plan

    Exit Plan

    Desiree’s journey unfolds as she transitions from aspiring actress to living a seemingly luxurious life with husband Dean, marked by infidelity and neglect. Facing divorce and loneliness, she discovers a retreat offering community and support. Ultimately, she embraces a new beginning, recognizing the need for an exit plan from her tumultuous situation.

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  • Trader Joe’s Gigolo

    Trader Joe’s Gigolo

    The story follows a charming but irresponsible man who reveled in his success with women until his lifestyle led to personal and professional decline.

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  • Winter Wanderland

    Winter Wanderland

    In January 1989, Valerie navigates the harsh winter of Philadelphia while struggling financially from her entry-level library job. Seeking a better income, she interviews at a questionable day spa. Encountering Marie, the owner, Valerie grapples with the implications of a massage-related position that hints at flexibility but raises moral concerns about its nature.

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  • Calzones

    Calzones

    Eighteen-year-old Rene struggles to find a job as a waitress in a Boston café amidst the harsh realities of life in the early 80s. After a tumultuous first day, she encounters Joe, an older man who offers her protection and money.

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  • Taco Bell Two Hundred

    Taco Bell Two Hundred

    Time travel through the San Fernando Valley, early 2000’s along with Shauna as she has a strange, yet profitable encounter.

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  • From Romania with Love

    From Romania with Love

    The narrative shares a cautionary tale about Viva, a successful woman who becomes romantically involved with a charming, seemingly perfect man. Initially captivated by his allure, she overlooks red flags.

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  • Dirty Mattress

    Dirty Mattress

    In Christmas 2015, a struggling individual in LA finds themselves catering a private party after a recent breakup. Faced with difficulties and an eccentric host’s family, they unexpectedly bond with a fellow server named Shawn. The night concludes with a modest tip, followed by a memorable, albeit uneasy, evening together.

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  • Little Genie

    Little Genie

    Go back in time to meet Little Genie as she makes her way through the dangerous alleys of Paris, narrowly escaping a terrible demise by using her magical powers.

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