Christmas Blues by E. Reyes
Barry felt he had to do it, but he was scared to death about the deadline that would ensue. The man in the black suit told him to think about it for a minute or two and either walk away or make a deal. The sun had just fallen behind the woods’ skeletal arms that touched the cold, crisp air. The sky was a cool purple and blue. Stars were beginning to shimmer enough to say hello. Dusk was here. This place was miles away from Barry’s home. He told his family he was going on a trip with his friend Mark to do some yard work for folks that lived in a mansion. He promised he would come back with money. He told his kids they’d get a Christmas tree and decorations for their home. It was a lie, but a small one. Well, not really. This lie would haunt him for the rest of his days if he decided to make the deal. Barry closed his eyes outside of a small local bar in a rural area and paced back and forth. Christmas music played loudly for the drunkards inside. Christmas. Christmas , he thought...