Rattlesnake

The schoolmarm waited for a week before she made the journey out to the Matchett farm. There, she found Tandy near the barn, sharpening a knive. He didn’t look up as she struggled off her horse.

“Miss.”

“Mr. Matchett, you must know why I’m here.”

“Yep.”

“Look… I know it can be difficult after you lose… But your son needs an education!”

“Getting one.”

She then heard the rattle.

She glanced around, seeing the boy just as the snake darted forward.

And did nothing, since most of its head was gone. She glared at Tandy.

“You think I’m a monster?”