Febuary 2024 Flash Fiction Winner: Deceit

By Lamis Husseini

I raise the glass to my lips, hiding my smile as I lower my eyes in defeat. I don’t need to look up to see the triumph in your gaze— the vibration skitters over my skin. Content with the superficial, you never once question my motives, never realise my hidden intelligence. I despise playing the fool, but my sisters have taught me the benefit of hiding in plain sight.

I will be your marionette until you realise who is pulling the strings.

Our monthly Flash Fiction contest is co-hosted with Melbourne writing collective, The Provocative Inklings. This contest is free to enter, and writers of all ages, from anywhere in the world, are invited to submit! Follow us on Instagram or subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date.