Apple pie was my favorite.

But the way my mama made it was better than anyones.

Cindy made it with a secret.

Dashing sugar into the center when she folded it.

Every defiance made her smile.

Fire warmed the pies and cooked them through and through.

Getting everyone into the bakery was easy with the promise of sweetness in every bite.

Happiness was high in the air, smiles lining everyones fac...

I walked through the heavy oak door, coming upon a sight I could have gone without.

There Professor Williams stood, her teeth in the neck of her teacher assistant. The assistant’s face was pale, eyes closed as Professor Williams took another heavy gulp from their vein.

She pulled her head up to look at me, retracting her teeth from the neck of the student. “Can I help you, Miss Davis?”

My mouth...

“I think I just met the happiest person in the world.” Polly sneered. Her red hair fell over her face as she leaned against the chair’s arms. “What a wonderful sight.”

Katy’s lip was dark with blood, and her blonde hair tainted with the rusty color. Still, she had a smile on her lips. “What’s wrong with being happy when I know that I’ll win?”

“In what universe? On what planet,” asked Polly. “You...