Dweller by Jeff Strand

This document presents excerpts from "Dweller" by Jeff Strand, a narrative that spans several decades in the life of Toby Floren. The story introduces Toby's complex relationship with a monstrous, ape-like creature named Owen, whom he first encounters as a child. As Toby grows, his interactions with Owen evolve from fear to a unique, secret friendship, even involving Owen's participation in hiding the bodies of two bullies Toby murders. The text follows Toby through adolescence, his adult relationships, marriage, and fatherhood, all while he navigates the challenges of keeping Owen's existence a secret and managing the monster's predatory nature. The excerpts also highlight Toby's aspirations as a cartoonist and the eventual tragic consequences of his hidden life, culminating in Owen's final, devastating act.