Archive of Our Own

This was not a plan. This was an impulse.

I hadn't stopped to think; I didn't dare. I simply moved and kept moving until I reached my destination. It was only after I arrived that I realized how hasty and thoughtless I might have been.

I drew back to collect myself and found that I was shaking and damp all over. I glanced around, praying that he wouldn't be there and begging for his presence.

But he was there, just like I knew he would be. And the reality of him far exceeded my expectations. More vibrant in flesh than in fantasy, more vivid than any imaginings, he took my breath away.

I closed my eyes and swallowed.

He was so close. It wouldn't take much to get his attention, just a gesture or a slightly raised voice. The temptation was so great, but the risk was even greater. One poorly chosen word, one misstep, and I could change so much. I could ruin everything.

I exhaled and a shudder ran through me.

It wasn't too late. I hadn't been noticed, I hadn't done anything. I could play it safe, play it sane, and Time would march on like a dutiful soldier.

I told myself to get out of there, but I couldn't move.

The clock was ticking, and I knew this moment was all I had. When would an opportunity like this present itself again? When would we ever be in this time, in this place?

I took another deep breath and...

What is Quantum Instability?

Quantum Instability was originally a print zine. It was originally created by Leah Starsky under Quantum Fire Press, was handled for a time by furies ink, and finally found a home with Red Pants Press.

Writers are invited to craft a story from the italicized introduction above.