I love this idea. While I understand the intent of the current contest, it seems to me that something has been missing from Story Mash since this began...seems like a lot fewer stories are being looked at now than before. And if someone starts a new story, it sort of gets lost in the shuffle because it isn't part of the contest. This way, only one main story wold be getting that attention and it may make some room for other interesting stories to garner attention as well. I really do like the idea of judging, and especially the idea of letting winning authors serve on the judging panel. And I say definitely limit one win per author.

P.S. I gave you five very well-deserved stars!

TomTen - I LOVE this aspect. In my opinion, way better than what I wrote...in fact, I think I'd like to continue this one, if I could. But, as I am anxious to see what you've got in mind for why some were not whisked away, I will stay away from that. I think there may have been a hint there in the cough, perhaps? It is interesting how vastly different a story can go from one point...but I think I like the added mystery and tension you've put here. And the ending was fantastic! I loved the way you wrote it..."the second appeared out of thin air" Great! I am going to work on this one over the next couple days. (Oh, and for clarity's sake if nothing else -- I am a her)

Wow. I absolutely love this! You have such a talent. I got shivers at the mention of MIT. Adds a whole new layer! I think I shall have to sleep on this and re-read it before I even endeavor to add to it. I have some ideas....have you read the book, I tink it's called "Without Us" written by some scientist about what would happen to the world, day by day, month by month and year by year if humans alone suddenly disappeared? Reminds me of this.

I like this! I like this a lot! This is very much what I imagined the interaction between them would be like when I first started the story. Great job. And very well written. Loved the thing with the clock, making one wonder...has she lost time...has she been taken again? I may take this line up!

I'm so glad you liked it. I always feel so presumptuous following a chapter that is so well-written! Can't wait to read your next installment.

Fantastic. Damn -- you've made me bite my nails again! Really though, loved it, gave you a well-deserved five, and, if I may, I'd love to add to this. Great start!

Have you ever read "The Book of Joby" by Mark Ferrari? A similar, though somwhat more lighthearted take on this theme, and, to date, one of the best books I have ever read.

That is positively wonderful! I wonder if the story is true or just a very brilliant lead-in to some of my all-time favorite lyrics...either way, I love it! You made my day!

I quite enjoyed this. I read it AFTER I read your request for insights on the subconscious thought process, and somehow it pulled me in better than it might have otherwise. I think I realized what was happening when he started to see the tiny light...that's when it felt like birth to me. I thought it was quite beautiful, really. The only thing I have in the way of criticism? I would have liked a bit more emotion when he was placed in the arms of his mother....I don't know what, exactly, maybe a bit more recognition? Relief? More description of those feelings? But I really did like it. I gave you a four star rating.