December 2, 2023 - Elizabeth Lerman’s “Evening News”

You let out a slow stream of smoke and swear under your breath as something bites you. The bugs shouldn’t be here. You shouldn’t be here. Both have overstayed their welcome. One more bite and you’re back inside, watching the way he and May watch the television, the local news logo shining in their shared eyes. 

“Anything new?”

“Nothing really.” His eyes are fixed on the ancient, static skinned screen.

“What’re they saying?”

“Searching the area thoroughly, same as last night.”

“New developments!” May screeches, shoving a bony finger forward.

“They won’t say what.” 

“They might say – shh, they might.” 

They don't say.

“They found something,” May says, nodding certainly. “Allan will tell me.”

“He’s not allowed to tell you, mom.” 

“He does, though,” she says, still nodding, “he does.”