Living in the Sprawl (Patreon)

Of course Debs knew about the show, “Watch Out, Giant About!” The third season had just finished and was a ratings sensation across the UK. It was a reality show where some local people from a town were turned into giants, and given tasks and challenges to do around town. Each week someone was voted off and was shrunk back down to normal size, with the series winner getting a huge cash prize and the ability to choose if they wanted to stay giant sized.

“So you’ve heard that Maidstone is the new location for season four?” said Evan, wringing his hands?

“No way! That’s incredible! Do you think we should apply?”

“Its too late, applications were sixth months ago and interviews were lest week.”

“Oh, that’s a shame. I wonder who will get in… It would be amazing if it was anyone we knew.”

“That’s just it. I heard that transformations happened this morning, and there’s a press embargo, but they’ve already done them and the word is out…”

“Oh yeah?… so is it anyone we know?”

“Well yeah…”

“Spit it out!”

“Chantelle Davies and Brittney Yeo.” 

“Do we know them?”

“Well I do… I went to school with them.” Evan put his head in his hands. “I went out with Chantelle for six months in Sixth Form.”

“Oh right… That little stalker. She works at the Coach and Horses right? The rock pub?”

“Yeah…”

“But that was, like six years ago.”

“Yeah…” Evan fumbled in his pocket and brought out his phone. “But I got this message last night.”

Debs took the phone and read aloud.

“Hey Ev, do you miss me? I think about you all the time… Big news, you’ll hear about it tomorrow… I’m gonna pay you a visit xxx” There was a rattle in the cupboards as the crockery started to shake. “What the fuck Ev, what does this mean?” The shaking was rhythmic, and growing more intense. The lampshade stared to swap and plaster fell from the ceiling.

“I think we need to get the fuck outta here.” Evan Grabbed Deb’s hand and bolted for the front door. As they ran outside the were engulfed by a shadow.

“OH EV, THERE YOU ARE! I WAS JUST COMING TO LOOK FOR YOU! I THINK WE NEED TO TALK, MAYBE IN PRIVATE BUT THAT”S NOT SO EASY NOW.” A deafening burst of laughter washed over them as they ran out into the street. There was a screeching of tyres and a huge roaring as a car swerved to avoid a rollie over then feet long that crashed into the road, sending up as shower for flaming sparks as big as a guy Faulks bonfire. “I DON’T THINK THERE’S ANYWHERE YOU CAN HIDE BABES. MAYBE YOU SHOULD BRING THAT LITTLE WAIF WITH YOU TOO.” The shadow descended over them and they were engulfed in the darkness of a sweaty hand.