Cursed — A fictional short story

Fantasy short story

The cabin was beautiful, nestled right against the woods. A big lake right off the side, just begging to be fished. Mark stretched as he stepped out of the car.

“What a beautiful spot for a vacation.” Jenny shut the front door on the van gently and opened up the rear sliding door to let the kids get out.

Donald and Gem ran around, enjoying the warm summer breeze that drifted in.

“Let’s go in and check out the cabin.” Mark grabbed a suitcase from the van and headed to the front door. Jenny followed along behind.

The minute he opened the door, the most disgusting smell assaulted his nose. He covered his nose and stepped back. “Looks like the last renters left a mess.” A layer of dust covered most of the furniture, ash and soot filled the fireplace, and a pile of trash sat in the corner. Flies buzzed around, and bird droppings littered the floor. Someone had forgotten to close one of the windows, thankfully only birds made their home here.

“This vacation isn’t starting out too well.” Jenny frowned as she looked at the messy cabin.

“Let’s make today a cleaning day, and tomorrow will officially start our vacation.” He kissed her forehead and covered his nose and mouth as he disappeared inside, coming back a few seconds…