Bridge Shade: A Captivating Short Story

Once upon a time, in a small tranquil town surrounded by lush greenery and gentle streams, there was a peculiar bridge concealed within dense shades. This was no ordinary shade; it seemed to possess an enigmatic aura that hypnotized anyone who dared to enter. The townspeople spoke of secrets hidden within its darkness, tales of unimaginable wonders, and mystifying encounters with mystical creatures. This is the story of how the bridge forever changed the lives of those who dared to cross its path.

The Haunting Beauty of Bridge Shade

Legend has it that the bridge was built centuries ago by ancient artisans who possessed unmatched craftsmanship. Made from dark, mahogany-colored wood, its structure blended seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, emanating an eerie yet captivating aura.

The bridge was hidden deep within an enchanted forest, where sunlight struggled to pierce through the dense foliage. Overgrown vines and delicate moss covered its sides, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The townspeople were both fascinated and terrified by the bridge, its allure drawing explorers who sought thrilling adventures.

Bridge: A Shade short story

by Jeri Smith-Ready(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	439 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	65 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Word spread quickly about the mysterious encounters experienced by those who dared to cross the bridge. People claimed to have glimpsed mythical creatures, heard whispers from ancient spirits, and witnessed ethereal lights flashing across the night sky. It was said that the bridge was a portal to another realm, a gateway to unseen dimensions.

A Fearless Wanderer's Journey

Jack, a fearless wanderer who had traveled across continents, arrived in the town one summer. Drawn by the rumors and tales of the Bridge Shade, he decided to set foot in this mysterious corner of the world, eager to unravel its secrets.

With a sturdy backpack and a heart filled with anticipation, he embarked on the path leading to the bridge. The dense forest seemed to close in around him, its whispers teasing his curiosity. Jack moved forward, determined to discover the truth that lay ahead.

As he approached the bridge, the air grew still, and an eerie silence replaced the symphony of nature. The only sound he could hear was the soft rustling of leaves under his feet. Jack took a deep breath and placed one foot onto the bridge's worn-out wooden planks.

An Encounter Beyond Imagination

As soon as his foot touched the bridge, a mysterious fog crept out from the shadows, enveloping Jack in a cold embrace. He could feel a gentle breeze whispering in his ear, almost guiding him further into the heart of the bridge. The once visible path ahead vanished, leaving Jack surrounded by an ethereal mist.

In that moment, a faint golden light flickered in the distance. Jack followed its guide, his heart pounding with both fear and excitement. That was when he heard a voice, soft yet commanding, echoing inside his mind.

"Welcome, wanderer," the voice whispered. "You have dared to cross the threshold. Prepare to witness the wonders that lay hidden within these shadows."

Jack's eyes widened in awe as he entered a world beyond his wildest dreams. Glowing beings danced in the air, their radiant beauty mesmerizing him. The ground beneath him transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colors he had never seen before. And in the center of it all, stood a magnificent, ancient tree with golden leaves that emitted a soft, calming light.

A Timeless Lesson

Days turned into nights, and nights into days as Jack explored the wonders of this secret realm, guided by the voice within his mind. The beings he encountered shared their wisdom and stories, teaching him about the importance of cherishing nature, embracing diversity, and finding beauty in the unknown.

Jack was reluctant to leave this enchanted realm, but he knew his time there was finite. With the knowledge he had gained, he walked back through the fog-shrouded bridge and back into the ordinary world.

A Changed Man

Returning to the town, Jack carried within him a newfound appreciation for every moment of life and the beauty that lies within the ordinary. He shared his adventure with the townspeople, inspiring them to seek their own journeys and embrace the mysteries of the world.

And so, the Bridge Shade became more than just a relic of the past. It became a catalyst for self-discovery, a symbol of the endless possibilities that await those who are willing to take a step into the unknown.

The Bridge Shade, with its enigmatic allure and the mystical experiences it offered, transformed ordinary lives and a quaint town into something extraordinary. It taught the power of curiosity, the beauty of nature, and the value of embracing the unknown.

So, if you ever find yourself in a small tranquil town surrounded by lush greenery, and you hear whispers of the Bridge Shade, do not hesitate. Take a step towards the shadows, for there lies a world waiting to reveal its secrets to the bold and the curious.

Bridge: A Shade short story

by Jeri Smith-Ready(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	439 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	65 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Logan is barely seventeen, and barely dead. To find eternal rest, the ghost rock star must make peace with his brother Mickey, before his guilt over Logan’s death drives him to suicide.

Krista sees ghosts everywhere, but never the one she needs most. A chance boardwalk encounter with Logan turns her Senior Week party into a rescue mission. Can her own grief give her the strength to save Mickey’s life?

Loaded with bonus material, the “Bridge” ebook is the perfect to the young-adult Shade trilogy—a tale of ghosts, music, and everlasting love.

About the author:
Jeri Smith-Ready has been writing fiction since the night she had her first double espresso. A steady stream of caffeine has resulted in eleven published novels, including RT Reviewers Choice-winning fantasy EYES OF CROW; as well as the PRISM award-winning WICKED GAME and SHADE.

In 2012, Jeri wrapped up both her adult and teen paranormal series. She’s currently writing a contemporary YA novel due out in Spring 2014, as well as a slew of short fiction for publication in 2013 and 2014.

Jeri lives in the rolling hills of Maryland with her husband and two cats. When not writing, she’s either running (and thinking about writing) or on Twitter.