Just Gary
by Rob Gabriele

Gary can’t read. But he can dream. And some dreams are better left unexplored.

For Gary, reality has never offered much to look forward to. His bleak existence is bearable only because of the dark, repulsive fantasies he experiences through his REM machine, allowing him to control his sleep and escape into a world of his own making.

Then everything changes.

An unexpected lottery win offers Gary a taste of freedom, but a devastating diagnosis reveals that his time may be running out. Just when he needs a reason to keep going, his mysterious neighbor, Lana, offers to teach him to read. Her stories are visceral, brutal, and unlike anything Gary has ever encountered.

As Gary devours Lana’s words, his dreams grow more intense—and more disturbing. The line between fantasy and reality begins to blur, pulling him deeper into a world where desire comes at a terrible cost. Lana’s stories hold secrets. Some demand sacrifices. And some prices can never be repaid.

How far would you go to escape your own life? What would you sacrifice to live the dream you’ve always wanted?

Gary might give up everything. After all, he’s Just Gary.