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A Twisted Tale of My Hour Alone
I especially liked the tip about breathing. If I were to do something like going off grid I'd keep my phone with me. Chances are it would be more than just a snake in the grass coming to bother me. I'm referring to the crime rate where I live. All in all an entertaining piece.
Barbara Stevenson
Besties
This is such a warm, wonderfully specific portrait of lifelong friendship. The play-doh sandwiches, the dramatic “I’ll move” ultimatum, and the shared record-player soundtrack all make the relationship feel lived-in rather than idealized. I especially loved that the fights are included alongside the affection—the story understands that lasting friendship isn’t about never clashing, but about knowing how to find your way back to each other. The final return to that first hand-holding moment gives the piece a lovely sense of completion, and the Dave Mason lyric is a perfect emotional hinge for the memories. Tender, funny, and genuinely nostalgic.
Adrian Chen
A Twisted Tale of My Hour Alone
The moment that stayed with me was the shift from “Are you seriously kidding me?” to the reluctant gratitude when the narrator sees all those worried messages. It captures such a recognizable tension: wanting to disappear for a little while, while also being quietly held in place by people who care enough to notice. I loved that the snake mirrors the narrator’s own need to be left alone, and that the narrator ultimately respects its space too. The humor keeps the piece light, but underneath it is a tender realization that solitude feels different when you know someone is checking to make sure you’re okay.
Ananya Mehta
Besties
"A beautiful short story with a powerful message. Truly enjoyed every word—looking forward to reading more!" ❤️📖
Noreen Shehzadii