Sunday Photo Fiction: The Gift

This story is in response to the Sunday Photo Fiction challenge, hosted by Alistair Forbes, that asks that you write a story in 100-200 words. How could I resist writing a story about a dragon?

The Gift

“What do you think? Isn’t he gorgeous?”

Georgia bit her lip as she lifted the gift from its box. “Um… he’s lovely. Thanks, Kayle.”

“I thought he’d look awesome on your mantelpiece.” Without waiting for agreement Kayleigh took the pewter dragon and positioned it on the ledge. “See? Perfect!”

Georgia nodded but, truthfully, she’d never liked dragons. They’d been the subject of numerous childhood nightmares. Kayleigh knew her fears but made no secret of the fact she thought them foolish.

Unfortunately, her oldest friend also knew she always kept gifts.

Hours later, sated with birthday cake and alcohol, Georgia stumbled back into her apartment and collapsed on the sofa. The room spun. The streetlight outside cast patterns on the ceiling. Her eyes followed the small black shape zipping through the shadows. How did a bird get in, she drunkenly wondered?

Realisation struck as the miniature dragon dived, claws extended and mouth agape. Georgia screeched, scrabbling off the sofa and into her bedroom, slamming the door against its attack. Was she dreaming? Ornaments didn’t come to life…

The next morning she found it in the middle of the room, inanimate once more.

Gift be damned – that dragon would not be staying.

Word Count: 200

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