Nerves shredded by months of shrieking, Harold applied for immediate removal of the ghost. The council declined. “Long-term occupant,” said the clerk. “He has rights.”

“But he’s dead!”

“Makes no difference, sorry.”

That night, the ghost gibbered until 3 a.m. Next morning, Harold received an eviction notice—for unlawful harassment.

British-born writer and translator Heather Starastin lives in Toronto and enjoys writing fiction about ordinary people encountering improbable situations. She is indefatigable in her pursuit of the perfect cup of tea.