Claudia didn’t comprehend how much bitterness and hatred Margo possessed for her until she saw it broadcast on social media. Initially, Claudia was offended because her words were without context and, as presented, untrue, but this wasn’t the issue. Years of emotion oozed in each acid-lashing. How satisfied Margo must have felt at the responses she achieved, each supportive one clawing at and denouncing her ignorant sister.

Immediately, Claudia felt a little frail, a little sad. Not because of Margo’s vitriol, but because Claudia heard the candle hiss and Margo embodied the darkness she drew upon.

end 7/18/2016

S. Darlington