The Final Scene

by Steph Nelson

She plays the part of young Grace Hamilton, age nine. Never mind that she’s twenty-three.

Grace pushed the button on the device once and it gave him a sharp jolt of electricity through the metal band, his collar.

Favorite stories are full of friends to visit when you have nobody else.

Brady would call the precaution ridiculous. But Brady’s never been a woman.

If Brooke didn’t know any better, she’d think he believes her. That she’s trying to serve him, take care of him. The confidence of a less-than-mediocre white man.

I’m telling you it’s better to go all in and try. Even if it means you might fail. I’d rather go out like that than live a nothing existence.”