The Monster

Mother’s voice forever echoes in my head: When I was your age, I’d already caused eight psychotic breaks and scared three people to death. You’re an embarrassment, Gary.

She never lets me forget she was first in her class at Spooky School, or that she broke every record in the Scare-O-Lympics.

That she’s the best.

I study my reflection in the bathroom mirror, try for a Frightening Face. Fail miserably. Maybe I’m just not cut out to be a Monster.

You’re an embarrassment, Gary.

“You can do this,” I tell my reflection. “Don’t let Mother down. Not this time.”

I melt into the floor, then worm my way through the house. When I reach The Boy’s room, I ooze through a crack in the floorboards and re-form beneath his bed.

Then I wait for him to turn out the light.

The Man stomps into the room, growls, “I told you to get some sleep. You’ve got tryouts tomorrow… Don’t embarrass me. I was state champ three years running. Being the best isn’t optional in this family.”

He flips off the light and exits without even saying goodnight, leaving The Boy alone in the dark.

With me.

The Boy sniffles back tears. My own eyes prickle in sympathy.

You’re an embarrassment, Gary.

They’re Mother’s words, but I hear them spoken in The Man’s voice.

Fire ignites in my chest. A monstrous rage blooms at last. I slip into the floor, creep towards The Man’s room.

Mother will be so proud.

Corrie finds inspiration in nature, bubble baths, and carefully curated playlists. Find her online: www.corriehaldane.com.