A Phoenix First Must Burn

by Patrice Caldwell

She’d put the gun in a box and put the box in her steamer trunk and forgotten about it, mostly. So when the predators did come for her, she hadn’t been ready.

“Never give your heart to another.” Etta thought of Ms. Mildred. “So I can never fall in love again?” “No. You can, but hearts are your own to keep. They’re to keep you alive. Give your affection. Give your love. Give your time, but nothing so vital to your own survival. Be careful with giving away parts of yourself before you understand them fully. You’re free of the stars now, so choose wisely in the future. After you know yourself. Love is not supposed to poison your own well.”

“Be more careful with that one. Get to know it better.”