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A Creased Heart

FJ Morris | Lakshmy Mathur

I tried to pack my heart away, fold it up like origami, make it stay in its place. I wanted it to look like a swan - precise, beautiful, pure. But the folds came loose with every step you didn’t take. The creases showed with every argument we had.

I wondered if I was honest and truthful, whether I could refold it - following the lines my parents drew. They’ll be upset to find my heart loose, but they’ll try to help. This is what your heart should look like, they’ll say. This is the best for you.

And I tried my best to pack it down, I really did. I swore to keep these lines crisp no matter what. But I’ve folded it back too many times and now the lines are worn through, close to shredding. But you said you’d rather have my heart in pieces, than not at all. And I’m not sure what’s worse, mine unfolded, or yours.


About FJ Morris

Freya Morris' flash fiction has won and been shortlisted for a number of competitions, and has been published in a variety of anthologies and journals. You can find out more at freyajmorris.com.

Visit the author's page >


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