Inspired by folk tales and horror themes Jess Lavin uses her writing to explore fear, emotion and the bias we can feel where they intersect.

We were three months into this quasi-relationship of fucking and dating, the onset of affection setting in months before. He was sweet, loving, austere, and far too gentle. It unnerved me when he stared at me, an undeniable ache in those pretty blue eyes.

As I approach yet another February 14th single, and begrudgingly try to write a hinge prompt that carefully balances my intelligence and subtle sense of humour, I find myself reflecting on why I’m finding it so hard to fall in love.