Welcome to Stories from Among the Stars.

You're listening to The Book Eaters by Sunyi Dean, narrated by Katie Eric.

Chapter 32, Dark Horse, Present Day

Something of vengeance I had tasted for the first time, as aromatic wine it seemed,

on swallowing warm and racy. It's after-flavour, metallic and corroding, gave me a sensation as if I'd been

poisoned. Charlotte Bronte, Jane Eyre. Evening settled over Tricwear House like a freshly washed duvet,

thick and damp. Watching the darkness descend, it occurred to Devin

that it was this exact day two years ago when she tried to flee Matley. The situation was

different at least. She actually had a plan this time, and help. It would go better. Devin pushed aside her worries and cracked open her bedroom window.

She checked the time. 6.45pm. Her son lounged on the window seat, slowly eating one of the new

scientist magazines they'd brought in town. Jarrow's Game Boy lay next to him, inert.

How does it taste?

She asked, enjoying that this was a question she could put to him.

Like stars in thunder, he said, stuffing another page into his mouth.

Not salty and hot, the way, you know, tastes.

I'm so glad I don't have to eat anyone ever, ever, ever again. An uncertain pause, and added,

that's right, isn't it? If we leave here, I don't have to, and kill it can't make me.

I swear, by every computer game ever made, I will never ask you to eat someone.

Devon told him, and was pleased to see his happy expression. She meant it too.

I'm bringing the Game Boy right. Kai moved to perch on the edge of the bed,

legs swinging. Oh, and my favourite shirt, the one with Doctor Who on it.

I'd no more leave your Game Boy behind than leavethan leave your fingers and toes behind,' she said.

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