What a spectacular story. We have a rule against brutality in the Ink Well, and your description of the poor worm brings that to mind. But this one will pass. It is told with such sensitivity, and it is a worm, nature at work. Your symbolism is impressive. The your description of the narrator's gradual insight is powerful.

You vividly describe the setting, not only of the restaurant but of the trash and the insects. One does wonder, as one reads, why the narrator did not rescue the worm when it breaks free. This certainly would seem to be where the narrator's sympathies lie.

Thank you for sharing this story with the community. We will ask in the future that you handle brutal scenes less graphically. It is actually upsetting to read for some (this curator included!) Have you read and commented on the stories of at least two other authors in the community? Thank you!