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    Apocalypse Bluff: A Novelette
    Apocalypse Bluff: A Novelette
    Apocalypse Bluff: A Novelette
    Ebook51 pages42 minutes

    Apocalypse Bluff: A Novelette

    By John Walters

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    About this ebook

    As invading aliens unleash monsters resembling mutated Earth carnivores to devour humankind, an extended family gathers together in a mansion on an isolated bluff for a last stand. To survive, they must fight together against ravenous beasts attacking from land and sea.

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherAstaria Books
    Release dateApr 14, 2019
    ISBN9781386841487
    Apocalypse Bluff: A Novelette
    Author

    John Walters

    John Walters recently returned to the United States after thirty-five years abroad. He lives in Seattle, Washington. He attended the 1973 Clarion West science fiction writing workshop and is a member of Science Fiction Writers of America. He writes mainstream fiction, science fiction and fantasy, and memoirs of his wanderings around the world.

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      Book preview

      Apocalypse Bluff - John Walters

      Apocalypse Bluff

      Gray fleecy clouds had gathered in the midmorning sky as the family climbed out of the SUV and trudged up the steps to the imposing house with its buff exterior, fringe of red tiles, and roof full of gleaming solar panels.

      In the past, the doorbell had been silent, the intelligent house informing residents of visitors through non-audible means, but now a chime rang within when Gregory pressed the button.

      His finger was poised to press it again when the thick windowless oak door opened. The greeter was Max's second wife, Charisma, usually called Cary, looking prim and perky in faux leather sandals, tan slacks, pink blouse, and a modicum of makeup. Her dyed blonde hair had lengthy roots of dark brown; she'd obviously not had a chance to visit a hairdresser recently.

      Welcome, said Cary. Sorry it took so long to answer. We've turned off the systems to prevent hacking. We're glad you made it safely. Max is working right now. He'll be down soon.

      Gregory said, Working? Why? Aren't his publishing channels suspended?

      Cary smiled. Max always works, regardless of the circumstances. Her expression switched to concerned. Did you see any of those creatures along the way?

      No, said Gregory's wife Selena. Not directly. People we spoke to had seen them. Some reported friends or family killed.

      Well, you're here now. Cary stood aside. Come in; come in. As Titus, the sixteen-year-old, and Amethyst, the ten-year-old, passed, she gave them each hugs, and she gently touched the cheek of Steven, the infant in Selena's arms. You know where your room is.

      When he'd designed the house, Amadeus Maverick, commonly referred to as Max, had set aside one spacious bedroom for each of his three sons, so that they'd always feel that they had a place to come home to.

      The kids wore backpacks, and Gregory toted a suitcase in each hand.

      Charisma said, Can I help you with your bags?

      That's all right, said Gregory. Ty and I will come back for the rest.

      The stairway had Mediterranean-style rails of ornate metal topped with polished dark wood. They ascended it one after the other, turned left, and followed the hallway to the end.

      I've put fresh sheets on the bed, said Charisma. I suppose we'll have to blow up some inflatable mattresses for the kids.

      About that, said Gregory. We're not all going to fit in here. We heard from Alex that he's not sure he'll be able to make it. Maybe we can overflow into his room.

      I'll let Max work that out with you, said Cary. He won't be long. In the meantime, we've got plenty of supplies. If you're hungry, help yourself to anything in the kitchen.

      Thank you, said Selena, as she gently bounced the baby, who'd started to fuss.

      *     *     *

      Later in the afternoon, as the clouds had congealed, become dark as swollen blisters, and threatened rain, the second family arrived. Max had just descended from his office aerie on the third floor and swung the door wide open himself.

      Richie! Marissa! Chrissie! He gave them each a generous squeeze as they entered, causing them to drop their luggage. Thanks for coming.

      Richard said, You make it sound as if this is a holiday and not an alien invasion.

      Max grabbed the suitcases that Marissa and Christina had been carrying.

      Hey, said Christina. No you don't. I'll carry my own bag.

      It's okay, Chrissie. I've got it.

      You think I'm a helpless woman?

      Uh - you're six years old.

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