"Rattler" a short story by Craig Zimmerman

It was late afternoon, and Colin Hays was walking home from school through the desert that surrounded his parent's ranch in eastern Washington state when he heard the rattle. 

Without moving, Colin searched the sage and rocks for the snake. Rattlesnakes generally stayed away from humans but there were occasional attacks.

Not seeing anything, Colin slowly moved forward. The rattling sound came again louder than before, and Colin stopped in his tracks.

 Colin looked at his watch. His father would be mad if he didn't get home before dinner and all because of an ornery snake.

Colin once again checked all of the places a snake might be and then decided to make a run for it.

Bracing his legs, he raced down the trail and stopped about a half mile from where he heard the rattle. Laughing at his fear and trying to catch his breath, Colin didn't notice the large rattlesnake that emerged from the rocks and slithered toward his leg.

"The Library Kiss" a short story by Craig Zimmerman

Danny Marshall was working on a page-long equation in the library when he noticed Julia Sauter heading for his table.

  "Could you help me with my homework?" She asked Danny with exaggerated sweetness.

"You know I will, but I want something in return this time." Danny replied.

 "And what would that be?" Julia asked.

   "A kiss"

   "A kiss?"

Danny nodded, blushing furiously.

    Julia thought of all of the times that Danny had helped her with schoolwork. A kiss seemed like a small enough reward.

She glanced around the library. All of the tables were filled and some of her friends were watching.

Julia then took Danny by the hand and gave him the best smooch she was capable of.

Mrs. Foster, the librarian frowned, a few kids laughed, but everyone else stood and applauded.

For Danny, it was the most glorious day of his life.