I’m Sorry: 100-word version

Originally sent to subscribers in May, 2023. Sign up for the newsletter now to receive exclusive stories months in advance.

“I fucked up.”

I repeat the phrase aloud, breaking the silence.

The call came after dinner. I shouldn’t have answered. I shouldn’t have lied to Lyla. I shouldn’t have gone over there. I shouldn’t have enjoyed it.

Seven missed messages. The wine and rain blur my vision. I reach for the wipers. I look up. The car refuses to turn. Until a tire catches.

I’m spinning. Faster. Faster.

Crash!

I’m rolling. The trees rush up to greet me.

Lyla’s face flashes in my mind. So beautiful.

The last thing I’ll ever do is hurt her.

One final tear.

“I’m sorry.”