A Ghost In Quarantine by John Pucay. First published by Brittle Star Literary Magazine. Shows magazine cover and story art
Story Art by 16-year-old Jamie and 16-at-heart Jasmine. Magazine photo courtesy of Jacqueline & Martin from Brittle Star

A Ghost In Quarantine

Guy struggles with a debilitating heartbreak during Lock-down. Then a “ghost” visits.

The world is like a huge jigsaw puzzle, made up of different pictures and sets. I’m a puzzle piece, in a heap with other pieces. I am not alone. In fact, I am surrounded by millions — even billions — of virtual and physical puzzle parts. But my loops and sockets do not fit any other piece. I cannot join. All around me; individuals, pairs and groups are locking onto one another, creating full and partial pictures, while I am left NOT alone but also NOT connected with anyone.

I don’t tell her that I took a higher paying job, over my much-anticipated dream project, so I can eventually afford the “show money”. I just don’t. I can’t. I never had the chance.

Thoughts, feelings and dreams — a whole picture that I’m not a part of.

The author’s Japanese ex-girlfriend, staring out the window, on their last night at an Airbnb, during happier times
Art by 16-year-old Jamie and 16-at-heart Jasmine. Artwork not included in the original published piece

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Author of Karinderya Love Songs; a 2020s dating and sex literary fiction novel. More details at johnpucay.com. Or https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B3WF1YF8/

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John Pucay

Author of Karinderya Love Songs; a 2020s dating and sex literary fiction novel. More details at johnpucay.com. Or https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B3WF1YF8/