Goldilocks and the Three Bearskin Rugs by S.F.J. Painter

To mend yesterday's “misunderstandings,” Goldilocks spent the day foraging in the woods.

She soaked the forest bounty in oats overnight.

At breakfast, the bears greedily tucked in.

“This porridge is just right,” they growled.

Goldilocks smiled.

“Why’s hers in a different coloured bowl?” said Baby Bear.

“I can taste mushrooms,” said Mummy Bear.

“I don’t feel very—”

“Alive?” said Goldilocks. The bears collapsed, snouts-first, into their bowls. Blood bubbled from their nostrils.

By nightfall, their hides were flayed. The rugs were warm. The bones made delightful windchimes.

Goldilocks sipped her tea. She had never felt more at home.

Bless.

 

 

About the Author

S.F.J. Painter lives with his lovely wife, cat, and chickens in the UK. He’s a former actor, puppeteer, and theatre director who has written or adapted over twenty professionally produced plays. Simon has been a mental health therapist for far too many years and is recovering from prostate cancer.