I turned. A boy sat at the far end of the bench leaving a gap big enough for maybe two or three people between us. He wore a school hoodie, and his light brown hair was untidy as if blown by a strong wind. His face was at an angle where I couldn’t make out his features, only the profile of his nose and chin. I felt as if something about him was off, not eerie or wrong, just off as if he was somehow dimmer and softer. Like the light didn’t catch him quite the same way it did other things…

This episode is dedicated to the memory of Jonas

Before we begin, we’d like to make note of the sensitive nature of the content of this story as it makes mention of suicide, a topic which may be upsetting to some listeners.

Hello and welcome, dear listeners, to Haunted UK Fiction – a sister podcast to The Haunted UK which features original flash fiction, short stories, and novellas with paranormal themes. All stories you will hear were written by a collection of talented writers, authors, and storytellers, both independent and professional.

In today’s episode we’ll be reading It Shows Up When It’s Needed was sent in to us by Robert McDermott. Robert lives and works in Dublin. His debut novel, 'Jone$town' was published by Riversong Books in 2019 and followed in 2022 by a collection of short stories 'The Occulting Light' also with Riversong Books.  His stories have been widely published in anthologies both in print and online. When not writing he enjoys listening to podcasts (especially Haunted U.K.) and walking with his cocker spaniel, Alfie. His influences include Kurt Vonnegut, M.R. James, Kelly Link, Denis Johnson, Kevin Barry

We truly hope enjoy this heartfelt tale of loss, grief, and the quest for understanding, connection, acceptance, and peace. If you would like to hear more from Robert McDermott, be sure to look up his short story anthology The Occulting Light, and stay tuned to the Haunted UK Fiction podcast as we have several more of his amazing stories to share. You can find links to Robert’s social media and contact information below:

SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/robertmcdermott73author/ 
EMAIL CONTACT: [email protected] 

If you have an original story that would send a chill down our spines, and you would like to submit it for review, simply send it in to [email protected]

Until next time, stay safe, and take care. 

Episode Credits:
Story by Robert McDermott
Narrated by Steven Holloway
Script prepared by Melissa West
Produced by Pink Flamingo Home Studio


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