Violet built four walls. A brick for every critical word, each hurtful taunt entombed in mortar. She whitewashed the outside, decorating the facade with fake sunflowers and painted gladioli. On the inside, she grew climbing roses and carnations, tending each bloom with love. She sowed a chamomile lawn, surrounded with jasmine and lavender. At night she lay alone with the stars, breathing the healing aromas. Her confidence grew, but as she scaled the walls to peek, the prick of thorns gave warning of the unwanted attention beyond. She retreated inside, planted marigolds, preferring the privacy of her own created world.
Lesley Bungay writes novels, short stories, flash fiction and the occasional Haiku. She is represented by Intersaga Literary Agency.
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