Upline

Set in an Austin, Texas universe where life begins at conception, this short story follows Miriam, who juggles multiple jobs—including selling cosmetics and urine samples—to navigate a society shaped by strict reproductive laws. Using her cover as a Makeup Girl, she connects with others in the Upline network to assist women facing difficult choices, but everything takes a sudden turn for the worse. The story explores the unintended consequences of a society with heightened reproductive restrictions, offering a thought-provoking glimpse into complex ethical dilemmas.