I wrote a story “Dark Angels.”

Sometimes I write long, interconnected novels with many short stories that have references to each other.

This story isn’t like that.

Sometimes I write short, poignant stories about people in crisis with problems that mirror society’s ills.

This story isn’t like that, either.

Dark Angels is set in a cider mill, a popular destination in the Midwest, in autumn. Going to a cider mill in September and October is always a treat in more ways than one. It’s not only the food—it’s the vibe. Even if it’s raining, you’ll likely have a great time. To me, there’s something about a harvest festival that represents a coming together or sense of belonging. I grew up in a modern suburb, not a farm, so there’s no familiarity with cider mills, but I feel at home there.

This story is set on the last day the cider mill is open. Generally, places like cider mills close in the month of November. On the way home from work, the cider mill I pass closes the day before Thanksgiving, and that’s late in the year.

Though it was the last day open, I stopped in once to buy doughnuts and cider. “The last taste of autumn,” I called it. And it was delicious, but also a little sad. The food was still good but the vibe was gone.

This story isn’t sad like that.

Dark Angels lives in its own little creative corner of my mind, and on publication day, I’m happy to share it with you.

Story: https://everydayfiction.com/