REFLECTION

Once Upon A Tale Of A Macabre Mistress is the second short story in Whisperers of Temptation: A Short Story Collection. It reimagines the myth of Lilith, Adam’s first wife, set in 1950s London.

The story follows Lyla Bridge, a feminist seeking vengeance against her ex-lover, Xenilius Kylus, a socialite who betrayed her promise of marriage. His oath to “die by her hands” if he failed to wed her becomes the catalyst for Lyla’s quest.

At a charity event, Lyla confronts her past as she hands over a criminal responsible for the Craigs’ daughter’s death before shadowing Kylus and his new wife, Bella Edwin. In an act of cold resolve, she murders Kylus in his sleep and escapes into the night.

For the rest of her life, Lyla dedicates herself to avenging injustices against the poor and oppressed, especially women. In her final moments, as her soul leaves her body, she is revealed to be the reincarnation of Lilith. On the other side, she greets Lucifer, the King of Hell, who narrates her tale of vengeance and redemption.