Instant Messages from the Universe
An original cosmic horror story.
Ben snickered at the message alert that popped up on his smartphone.
The Universe followed you.
“The whole universe is following me, huh?” he said. “I guess I’m a celebrity now.”
His eyes darted from side to side, hoping someone else enjoyed his joke as much as he did. A couple strolled past him on the sidewalk. They held hands and chit chatted with one another as though Ben didn’t exist. Whatever. No sense wasting his humor on these ungrateful strangers.
A breeze swept an extra autumn chill against his cheeks. Colorful leaves rustled on overhanging branches. Ben tugged on the scarf circling his neck and cinched it tighter. Streetlamps cast a dull glow on the sidewalk and on the front steps leading to his townhouse.
His phone pinged again. A new message alert.
The Universe is still following you.
Okay, that’s weird. Whoever designed this app has an odd sense of humor. Ben shook his head. He heard strange rumors about Ubique before opening an account. Maybe it earned such a reputation for a good reason.
Ben fished his keys out of his pocket and unlocked the door. Another ping greeted his ears.
The Universe is angry with you.
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