Author: Walton Merritt

**The Phone Call** Mira had finished lunch, washed the dishes, and settled down for a nap. Her husband

The Mirage Over dinner, Daniel’s father kept shooting him disapproving glances. Daniel already knew—his

**The House of Hope** Emily lay with her eyes wide open, tracing the streaks of headlights flickering

**Diary Entry** I’ll always have you with me… Emily flipped the sizzling pieces of meat in the pan, covered

Katie finally fell asleep near dawn. When she opened her eyes, sunlight flooded the room, and Victor

“Mum, if you interfere, I’ll leave. Forever.” On her birthday, Helen rose early—chopped

No Air Left Lucy turned the key slowly and stepped inside the flat, careful not to make a sound.

The past won’t let go until you make it right… The café is packed. Victor had booked a table in advance

“Hello, Emily” The phone buzzed, and Emily picked it up to hear her best friend’s excited voice.

A young woman with a home of her own dreams of getting married… “Well, there goes another