Interesting. The most I ever made on one story was $43, and that was in 2021. I write regularly, publish on Crow's Feet, The Memoirist, and UX Collective, all with large followings, and have 10 stories with more than 1000 views.

One story with >9400 views and >3000 reads made all of $1.20. I also am an active commenter, and every month gain at least a dozen more followers.

I actually make less money month over month this year than I did in 2021, despite having more followers, more reads, and more commenting.

Clearly everyone's mileage will vary. Then again, I don't write the kinds of stories you do. I write for the pleasure, not to make money.