Winning Roses

For six years, Claudia and Mallory Cohen have claimed first place at every local flower competition, their roses known for their breathtaking beauty and divine scent.

The sisters are adored in the community, collecting prize money and admiration - but never revealing the secret behind their perfect flowers.

When Jada Charlton sees a job advertisement for a home help position at the Cohen house, she jumps at the opportunity.

The pay is excellent, the work is light, and the sisters are welcoming and kind. It seems like the ideal job.

But as Jada settles into her new role, small oddities around the house begin to gnaw at her curiosity. Certain parts of the house are off-limits - especially the basement.

Respecting the wishes of her employers, Jada obeys and thinks nothing of it. However, she soon finds out that thinking nothing of it, was her dire mistake.

A short story by Makala Thomas.