Far Horizons: Tales of Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror. Issue #14 May 2015 | Page 4

A Heart
Turned
Cold

The last words that were meant to comfort are mercilessly repeated, as if salt was being thrown onto an
open wound: She is practically family—don’t worry.
I have never seen the likes of family try to rush so as
not to be seen leaving. Self-conscious shame flashes
quickly across her face when noticed, but it is replaced
by simple ignorance in the moment.
My upbringing bequests politeness, but as I smile at
this being with tussled hair in yesterday’s clothes,
my heart seizes and I feel as if I have died inside. All
from a moment that lasted mere seconds yet feels like
eternity. In one quick swoop my humanity is in question and quickly put in check, but not before loathing
comes to stay.
My mind turns dark with not even a sliver of light to
be seen. Ice builds in my heart and spreads through all
but my stomach, which is still unstable from disgust.
He walks behind her; it appears as if she is his shield,
and even though he tries to advert his gaze, our eyes
meet. Seconds is all that is needed. I see reflections of
remorse, a weak apology, a request to stay civil, but
worst of all I see confirmation.

By Jessica
Varian

With the last, I step back as if I was