Hex

"Hex" by Laurence M. Janifer is a science fiction story set around a social worker with special abilities. Gloria uses her mind-altering powers to assist her clients, getting a young boy named Rudi and his mom, Mrs. Wladek, jobs and more involved within society. Through her help, unintended consequences occur within her clients, and Mrs. Wladek believes that Gloria has placed a hex upon her. The heart of the story explores Gloria's choice to use her influencing power by asking if it is possible to truly help others, the idea of freedom, and the nature of agreement.