Originally published in September 2022, this 100-word story appeared in Grimdark from Black Hare Press. As you might expect, all the stories in this anthology are grim and dark. Including this one:

5-4-3-2-1

by DL Shirey

What did the shrink say? That trick when I feel overwhelmed. 5-4-3-2-1. Focus on senses, turn off my brain and stop obsessing. Just stop.

5-4-3-2-1.

Okay, take a breath; concentrate on where I am right now. Five things I see: wet pavement, trash, syringes, a dumpster, #6 spray-painted on the wall.

Touch four things—why are my hands sticky?—Stop. Four things: extension cord, my inhaler, soiled bed sheets, high heel. No shoe, just the heel.

Three things I hear: sirens, dog barking, the whispers.

Two things I smell: piss, cheap perfume.

One taste: that perfume.

I’m feeling better already.

END