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Erin Payne

Author on Reedsy Prompts since Oct, 2025

Stories (2)

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2 Stories

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Gravity and Entropy Always Find One Another

Erin Payne

Submitted to Contest #331

“Knock at my door, please.”The words trail on in my head repeatedly as I anxiously pace back and forth in an attempt to calm the surge of simmering energy within. I look up at the clock…11:59.“It’s late, he might not come,” I think to myself, trying to soothe myself.“Knock on my door.”The loop repeats and I grunt, forcing out the sound, hoping it’ll drown the nagging want that clings to life.“Don’t come!” I say, denying myself as I habitually do, cradling my head in my palms.Knock, knock, knock—called through the wooded barrier.My head snaps...

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Poser

Erin Payne

He lingered on the outskirts of a large collective meet and greet, a casual gathering meant to establish networks for literary support. It took place in a large elegant house in a posh neighbourhood, which only added to his anxiety about being there alone. He spoke briefly with attendees but he’d evaded their questions through artful manoeuvres, like claiming distraction from a friend “on his way” or excusing himself to the bathroom. He quickly conveyed his unwillingness to participate without explicitly saying so. He tapped his wine glass i...

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