A story titled “Sarah’s Laugh” by Melissa A Watkins is featured in this month’s issue of Lightspeed Magazine. The narrative unfolds in a world where the Walls surrounding cities have collapsed, an event triggered by a simple laugh. The protagonist engages in a conversation with a researcher, described as a man with round glasses and curly hair, who is intrigued by the story behind this laugh.
Set against the backdrop of a bustling wet market in Chinatown, the protagonist observes the surroundings while the researcher seems oblivious to the vibrant atmosphere. They encounter Jim, a local vendor selling dried fish, who expresses reluctance to share information about Miller’s Square, a location the researcher is interested in. Jim's disinterest is evident as he prefers to maintain his peace.
The protagonist, however, is aware of connections to the area and considers introducing the researcher to someone knowledgeable about it. This interaction highlights the contrasts between the researcher’s curiosity and the locals' desire for solitude in their daily lives.