Sibley Shamra
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Poetry is simply diction strung together as I see fit.
Stories (109)
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Knotted Roots - Part 19
As my truck rolled into town, I began calling Jane’s phone. The phone kept ringing to voicemail, and after the third or fourth attempt, I stopped calling. Pacing led to wandering the streets, alleys, and shops in town. I started in the small western boutique on the far side of town. When I entered the store which smelled of citrus scented plug-ins, I was greeted by the shop worker as I scanned the aisles for Jane. “Can I help ya’ find anything?” She asked, everything in me wanted to ignore her as I was focused on finding Jane, but perhaps she’d seen her? “Uh, maybe. I’m actually looking for my friend. Jane Cross. You seen her?” “I know her, but no. Jane hasn’t been here today.” She smiled and went off to finish folding clothes and adjusting the racks as I turned to leave with a huff, I stopped as something glimmering down the road caught my eye. Slowly creeping towards the broad window next to the glass door, I leaned to peer down the road when my heart turned into a bass drum. Each beat like a roar of thunder as it began to beat louder and louder in my head. My feet struggled to find solid ground as I wobbled in place, placing my hand on the wall for support. My eyes shut as tight as I could to hide the reality of my fears before me. “Hey, you okay?” The shop worker asked, her hand gently pressed on my shoulder as it caused the ground to cease returning to its solid state, my heart fluttering back to normal, my eyes open to meet hers. “I’m sorry. Yes, I’m fine. Just had some…stomach issues. I think I ate too much.” I lied, trying my hardest to be as convincing as possible. Although the worker didn’t seem satisfied, she released her hand with a smile. I jetted out of the store when I could, and turned the corner. My chest heaved with each forced breath! Why? I thought to myself. Why would he still be here? He lived in the big city! He has no other reason to… and then it dawned on me. My heart practically stilled, my eyes wide, breath caught in my chest. He knew I ruined his fraudulent scheme, broke off our engagement, and even brawled Jasper…the man was wildly terrifying at the extent of resentment and vengefulness he held. Surely he wouldn’t be so bold to go after Jane? The thought of Jane being dragged into my mess made me realize how much I’ve affected so many people, families, hearts. No more. In this moment I swallowed my fear, determined to protect everyone from my mistake! Greg was rabid to say the least, there was no telling how far he’d go until he was satisfied. If he had Jane, Jasper would surely want to know. But first, I had to be without a doubt. I had to confront the very person who traumatized me. With a deep breath, I shook the nerves off and breathed in the crisp air as I made my way to that glimmering blue mustang down the road. With each step closer, I felt like I was trembling beneath my skin, but I couldn’t let innocent people like Jane be hurt by such a monstrous man. Greg’s mustang sparkled like a jewel under the bright sun, I cupped my hands on the warm glass and peered in the windows searching for Jane, and was slightly relieved not to find her. “Well, didn’t think you’d come crawling back so soon.” My heart froze, a jolt of panic jumping into my throat as I heard Greg’s voice behind me. With a stiffness, I stood tall and spun on my heels. My narrowed eyes like arrows. The man I once cowered under was going to answer me. “Where is she?” “Who?” “You’re really going to play these games?” An evil and crooked smile spread across his lips like a snake. Greg slowly stepped towards me, eyes fixated on my lips. I kept screaming in my head to not break eye contact! Stand your ground! “Tell me, Grace. Tell me how badly you missed me, how you’ve been longing for me.” His face was entirely too close to mine, his hands lifting to encircle my hips, but before he could I stepped back creating much needed space. “Don’t touch me.” Greg hid his disgust behind his wicked eyes. “I see. You’re still mad, no worries. I will fix that.” “You’ll fix nothing.” I gritted through my teeth, “I’m here for Jane.” “And what makes you think I know where Jane is?” Was he really toying with me? Who else would have been on the other end of the phone? It had to be him! “You’re not fooling me.” Greg simply stared at me, as if plotting his next words. He took another step forward and as I moved back again, I was met with the car door of his mustang, trapping me between the car and Greg as his hands pinned me. “Beg.” Greg’s tone was sharp, his eyes blackened with a storm within. “No.” Greg’s hands shifted, pressing my back against the door handle causing a sharp pain as I winced. “I said, beg. Or you’ll never know where she is.” His words struck a chord! Spewing like venom from his lips. Anger shrouded my mind, and although I was disgusted, I complied for the sole purpose of finding Jane. “Please Greg. Please help me find Jane.” “Not good enough.” My eyes widened, was he serious? With a deep breath, I peered through my eyelashes as I looked upwards to him, shifting forward to press myself against him, my arms encircling his neck, “Greg. Please? Please help me find her.” My words slipped out in a slow and hushed tone, batting my eyes slowly to appease his disgusting fantasy. “Mmm. You almost convinced me, love.” He spoke in a low, husky tone, eyes searching mine as his body pressed me harder against the car door. Swallowing regret, I planted a soft kiss on his lips, in which he returned with vigor and want. I played along as the purpose behind this was to find Jane. Thankful for the air when he was finally satisfied, at least for the moment. “One more thing, love.” Greg sneered. Of course there was always more, one thing was just never enough for him. Suppressing the world’s largest eye roll, I continued to play along. “It’s imperative you do exactly as I say. For Jane’s safety.” I tried to refrain from my eyes growing like saucers before him, to remain composed, but I was chilled to the bone with fear. “Surely, you’ll be a good girl, hmm?” Greg pressed, his black eyes like onyx glistening with a venomous smile. “I will.” I spoke just above a whisper, as he released me to get into the mustang, my eyes dropping in fear. I had to do this, for Jane, for Jasper. Then it dawned on me that this could very well be my final day of freedom. I wasn’t sure what Greg was plotting, but I knew he was maddened with revenge. In a brief epiphany, I had to suppress my realization, the last bit of security I had left. I could share my location from my phone with Jasper! Surely if things took a turn for the worse, he’d come searching and at least know where to start! I changed the permission on my phone to update Jasper’s with my location and I reluctantly got into Greg’s passenger seat as he sped away from town.
By Sibley Shamra2 months ago in Chapters
Knotted Roots - Part 18
I awoke the next morning, my body still aching from the brawl with Greg. Rolling over, I saw my phone lying on the charger on the bedside table. I must’ve drifted into a deep sleep as I awaited Jane’s text letting me know she was home safely. When I checked for the message, I didn’t see any texts or missed calls. I figured she must’ve gone to bed and fallen asleep when she got home, it was an emotionally exhausting day. Hunched over, my head pounding with a headache, similar to that of a hangover. I pressed my fingers into my temples in an effort to ease the thunderous roaring in my head, as I made haste into the bathroom, the hot water soothing my body as I relaxed under the showerhead. Once out and dressed, I checked the time on my phone, and grew concerned as it was nearly nine’o’clock in the morning. I shook the uneasiness away, the last time I grew concerned so quickly, she was just fine. I reassured myself that she would call or text soon, and I distracted myself by traveling to the jeweler in town. Can’t propose without a ring!
By Sibley Shamra2 months ago in Chapters
Knotted Roots - Part 17
Sunday rolled around in due time, and for the past few days, the grief began to subside, peace rose, and routine never felt so blissful. While I got ready for church, I slipped into Pa’s room, glancing around the naturally lit room. It smelled of fresh linen, and the citrus scent wafting from a plug in Jane put in. Although Pa was gone, it didn’t feel as empty as it did recently, it was as if it breathed new life. “Well Pa, I think I’m going to have a lot of planning to do after today. Guide me to a legacy you’ll be proud of. I think there’s going to be some change coming.” With a distant gaze and a small smirk, I spun on my heels and left my father’s room, ready to pick up Jane. The entire ride over to her home, I was consumed by thoughts of what I wanted, what I believed in, and why. The ride over was my weekly reminder of keeping my priorities in line. Jane was already on her porch swing, a sweet tea in her hand. I swiftly lifted her into my arms and spun her as we shared in the laughter of childlike love. “Okay cowboy, I see you still have some swing to you!” “You’re the fire to my forge, love. You only make me stronger!” I carried Jane as she giggled and clutched my neck to my truck, planting a gentle kiss as I opened her passenger door. “Strong in arms, but soft in heart.” Jane’s words are like a tease. I adored her, and I wanted to be better for her. She was a woman I was proud to have on my arm, and proud to call mine. We made for the church in swift time, Jane and I walked hand in hand, and sat in the sanctuary as we always do. Pastor Dave’s sermon spoke of love through adversity and it was an overwhelming truth in Jane’s and I’s relationship.
By Sibley Shamra2 months ago in Chapters
Knotted Roots - Part 16
I couldn’t believe that Greg had twisted into such a repulsive, abusive, demon of a man! And I, caught up in his charm, and the materialistic gifts! I was devastated, how did I go from a fearless rodeo queen to a shameful, undeserving pile of slop! I was better than this, I was stronger than this, yet still, I was alone. I was broken, abused. I never stopped loving Jasper, but he was gone. At least for now. I only have myself to blame for the situation I am in. I dressed into my oversized pajamas and slept in a puddle of my tears, clutching the quilt that hugged me back. I wanted to tell Jasper, he’d surely protect me from Greg, but after everything he’s been through, would he even care about me still? Did I care about me? I didn’t know the best thing was staring me right in my face, after all this time, I still loved Jasper hopelessly and recklessly. My heart ached, and at some point through my sobbing I had drifted to sleep, emotionally and physically exhausted. I awoke in a panic, hyperventilating as I dreamt of the trauma by Greg’s violent behavior, the all too real memory of his assault. I gasped for air, brushing my hair back as my chest heaved violently. I needed to get outside! I quickly changed into some jeans and a loose shirt, grabbing my gambler hat, and I made my way to the barn. The morning light pierced through the foggy breath of a new day. I didn’t bother to grab my phone, I just needed to ride! I jumped on Spot’s back and with a stiff kick, we hurried off towards the mountain range. The wind brought the oxygen I was deprived of. My battered and abused heart felt heavy, sinking to the depths of my chest. I was drowning in a spiraling depression, and my soul was bruised, burning with conviction.
By Sibley Shamra2 months ago in Chapters
Knotted Roots - Part 15. Content Warning.
I woke up early, my body aching from the heartbreak of Pa’s passing mere hours ago. Jane lay sound asleep beside me. She looked so peaceful, perfect. Her long brunette hair covered her shoulders as she lay on her side. I slipped out of the covers and quietly made my way downstairs, eager to feed the insatiable hunger rumbling in my stomach. I wasn’t sure if I even ate anything yesterday, and it felt as if I hadn’t eaten in a week! I found a box of cereal and poured it into a bowl, splashing the top with milk. I sat in silence, peering out the windows as dawn broke over the mountains, a cool breeze in the air. It looked as if there was hope in the air, a fresh morning with clear skies and birds chirping in the distance. It would be a morning my father would have enjoyed. He would’ve been enjoying the newspaper, the window open, and his coffee sitting nearby. I stretched as I stood from the old wooden chair, and I washed the bowl, leaving it atop a towel to dry. I poured myself some coffee and made my way to the porch, breathing in the new day. “Don’t worry, Pa, no one’s taking this ranch from us. I’ll make you proud.” I said aloud, in a low, steady voice as I leaned against a post. And then I heard the grumbling sound of that old mustang, followed by a dust cloud. Great! Just when I thought I’d find peace. If it’s a fight he wants, it’s a fight he’ll get. Greg slid his mustang to a halt in front of the porch. “You!” Greg seemed annoyed and angered. “You can get back in that pretty lil car of yours, ain’t nothin’ for ya here.” Sipping on my coffee, I eyed him like a predator watching its prey. “You’re the reason Grace broke off our engagement.” “I think that was a long time comin’.” Greg stormed towards me, huffing and inches from my face. I didn’t flinch, I embraced the moment! “I’m coming for everything! You hear me! Everything!” “He told you to leave. I suggest you do just that.” Jane’s voice broke the tension and surprised both Greg and I. She shouldn’t be out here. This was my battle, yet I’m starting to realize Jane is a lot tougher than anyone gives her credit for. “What’s this? You just sleeping with all the women in town?” Greg sneered, my anger boiling, my muscles tensing as he was getting too bold. “Wait til Grace hears about this! Or maybe, I should just take this lil beauty!” Greg’s perverted smirk caused my soul to twist in anger. I violently grabbed Greg by his shirt, yanking him upwards, piercing into his empty soul like I was about to devour it myself. “Watch your tongue, snake!” I gritted, shoving him off the porch, causing him to stumble to the ground. “Hey! You’ll regret that.” I stepped forward, blocking his eyesight of Jane, “Jasper…” I heard Jane whisper my name, her arm slinking around me. It caused me to relax just slightly, comforted by her confidence. I held my eyes on Greg; the clear annoyance on his face was satisfying. “I suggest you refrain from returning here, Greg, for your sake.” I threatened, as he scowled and scurried into his mustang, whipping it around, leaving Jane in and I in dust on the porch. “What was that all about?” “Nothing. He and Grace had plotted about getting their hands on my farm. Ever since they found out about Pa’s health.” “Grace?” “He told me everything, Jane. And Grace, well, she can’t be trusted.” “Jasper, you’ve never spoken like that about her.” I thought Jane would’ve been glad to hear about my displeasure with Grace, how I had finally begun to see how manipulative she had been. “Jane, you don’t understand the tricks and games she tormented me with.” “Perhaps, but I still find it hard to believe Grace agreeing to something so vile.” “It doesn’t matter now, Jane.” I embraced her, my hand cupping her sharp jawline, as I kissed her softly.
By Sibley Shamra3 months ago in Chapters
