FLASH TERROR 250 Contest – "Christmas at Briar Cliff Manor" by Marc W. Johnson

TBM Horror FLASH TERROR 250 Marc Johnson

Simon and Claire opted to skip lunch for the long drive to beat the storm to her family’s secluded estate and childhood home. They’ve had serious talks about their future, and thought it time to meet all of Claire’s large family. What better time than the holiday where everyone is full of cheer. As predicted, the Minnesota blizzard hooked hard left into northwestern Wisconsin just after they arrived. For hours now, the wind howls while flakes dance their lunatic choreography to winter’s symphony.

Conversation has been congenial, and as to be expected, sometimes probative of Simon. By the crackling fire with Claire’s father, Simon’s stomach grumbles.

“Dinner!” calls Claire’s mother.

Her father exclaims, “Excellent! And none too soon, eh? We’ve decided to go traditional this year.”

Excited Claire takes Simon’s arm. Simon glances out the large window as they move from the fireplace. The window’s decorative lights against the swirling snow appear to form a shape, but Claire ushers him forward before Simon can say anything.

Simon stops, Clarie halts. He’s speechless at the large spread on the long table. Bowls of mashed potatoes, buttered corn, green bean casserole. The faint aroma of maple from the sweet potatoes mixing with spices coming from the golden-brown skin. Simon can’t take his eyes off the sausage stuffing overflowing the stout child’s open belly.

Twenty-eight pairs of eyes are on Simon fighting to control the flight response coursing throughout his body.

Claire asks with Christmas cheer, “I hope you’re hungry?”

The wind shrieks.