Corey Patten

A short story by Corey Patten 10/07/25 “The Haus is now in session,” announces the Haus Mother with a loud clack of their fan. “We acknowledge Miss Verdant Violetta as she walks the floor.”   Miss Violetta, resplendent in a purple pinstripe suit, struts to the middle of the square room, heels clicking on the rainbow marble floor and echoing throughout the chamber. She comes to a stop and stares up at the icons of the Haus.  “My thanks to the Haus for holding space for me. I would like to...

A short story by Corey Patten 23/07/25 The air buzzes with conversation and brings energy to the dimly lit bar. Aurelia stands in the doorway, eyes flitting between each table and examining each face. Their eyes catch on a hand waving in the corner of the room, and a smile illuminates their face. Claire stands as Aurelia squeezes their way through the maze of tables and wraps them in a tight hug as they emerge. “It’s good to see you,” Aurelia says as they take their seat. “How have you been?”...

A short story by Corey Patten 06/05/25 A young man steps out of the new arrivals office, then looks toward the sprawling metropolis in front of him, large and imposing, with so many colours it gleams like a jewel against the sky. He takes a deep breath before his feet begin to move. “It can be a bit scary when you first arrive,” a voice says, causing the man’s head to whip to the side. Leaning against the wall is a tall figure with skin as dark as his own, wearing a purple pant suit. “That’s...