YOLO

 

"Your nails look nice," I complimented my friend as she tapped her long, red-polished nails on the table while we waited for our food to arrive.

"Thanks!" she said, blowing at them gently with an arched eyebrow. 

"So, how do you keep them clean while you're cooking and doing other stuff in the kitchen?" I asked, trying to learn some tips and tricks.

"Cooking and cleaning?" she repeated with a shriek. "Urgh! I have help doing all the work in the house." She shrugged her shoulders and glanced at mine with a playful smirk. "You only live once, babes!" 

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In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about someone (or something) strutting. What has caused the overconfidence? Is it arrogant? Foolish? Legit? How does strutting shape a story? Have fun and go where the prompt leads!

A Leak

 

"I need you to hurry up!" she yelled.

"Relax, it's just a small leak!" I yelped back as I walked towards the kitchen to get a pan to collect the drops falling from my roommate's rooftop.

"Just a small leak?" she countered, "This small leak will sink the whole house."

"Not unless we repair it and stop procrastinating about it," I replied as I put a pan under the drop and searched for a repair person online.

"Wait! What if we can't afford it?" she asked, concerned.

"We'll pay in installments," I reassured her, still looking at my phone.

March 12, 2024, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about leaving a leak. What (or who) is leaking? How can you use the leak to create tension? Expand the idea of leaks. Go where the prompt leads!

The Mask of Pretense

 

We often seek happiness in external factors such as material objects, situations, and occasions. 

However, life is unpredictable, and not everything is in our control. 

It's best to avoid having expectations from anyone. This way, we can teach ourselves to find happiness in whatever we encounter. 

The power of pretending to be happy is extreme and can help us keep our pain at bay. 

By training our minds to be present and aware, we can better cope with life's challenges.

Training your mind and being aware of the present situation will help you cope with everything thrown at you.

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about an intolerable mask. Who is wearing the mask and why? What is so intolerable about the mask? Is there empathy for the one behind the mask? Go where the prompt leads!

My Dignity

Menon saw his wife, Sarita, flipping the pillows on their bed and checking under the comforter, ruffled sheets, and behind the chest of drawers.

 He asked irritatingly, "What are you looking for? And why aren't you dressed?" 

Sarita whispered, "I'm looking for my dignity?" 

And she continued to search other rooms.

With crossed eyebrows, Menon followed her and asked, "Is that a new cosmetic? Just get dressed without it." he said, glancing at his watch. 

She squinted at him with crossed arms and said sternly, "I can't go to places where I am a mere puppet. Go without me!"

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about something lost now found. Is it an object or person who is lost? How are they lost? What happens when what was lost is found? Go where the prompt leads!

Are You Coming Tonight?

Sarla asked, "Hey! Are you coming tonight?" 

There was a slight pause on the other end. 

Sarla urged, "Oh! Come on, the pandemic is over. We all have to meet in person. Everyone is coming!" 

Macy sighed heavily before responding, "What's the point of meeting? We talk on the phone every day. I have nothing new to add." 

There was a lack of enthusiasm in her tone. 

 "I understand where you're coming from, but we must bring the fish out of the water. Let's cherish the moments of physical touch and not let technology take that away from us," 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a fish out of water. What is the source of the tension? The characters, the action, the setting? Or, is it literally a story about fish, real or metaphorical? Go where the prompt leads!

What's your Pace?

 

"Congratulations! Your vitals are good, and you'll be discharged from the hospital today," announced the doctor as he reviewed the patient's medical file. 

The caretaker was thrilled. 

However, the patient seemed less than thrilled. Upon noticing his solemn expression, the doctor inquired, "Is everything alright? You don't seem very happy." 

After taking a deep breath, the patient replied, "I'm relieved that I have recovered from my illness, but the thought of conforming to society's demands makes me anxious."

"Hmmm, you can choose the pace of your life. Your rhythm will determine the length of your recovery," said the doctor. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a recovery story. What instigated the recovery? What is being recovered? Data, athletes, illness — expand the idea of recovery and find your story. Go where the prompt leads!

Are the results out, yet?

 

I shouted, "Are the results out yet?"while quickly pulling on my pants and zipping them up, then pushed the door open. 

Mom was busy knitting, and she shook her head no.

"Mom!" I shrieked, refreshed the screen, and exhaled deeply. 

Our eyes met. 

She was calm, wearing a gentle smile despite my reaction. 

The results had not yet been released, so I sat beside her. "I can't take this waiting game!" I lamented.

"Sing a song!" Mom said. 

"Huh?" I responded. 

"Keep your mind busy, Sara. Time will tick away! Besides, the results are not in your hand." 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about waiting. Where does this waiting take place? Does it have a past or a future outcome? Who is waiting and why? Go where the prompt leads!

The First Rain of the Season

 "It's raining! Get the air fryer out," urged Dev as he walked in with damp clothes.

"You do realize fried food is not good for your health. Your cholesterol has been high," said Tina with an arched eyebrow. 

Dev paused and took a deep breath, inhaling the Petrichor potpourri, a unique, earthy smell associated with rain.

"The season's first rainfall is always special, and it needs a celebration, Tina," he endorsed, "Besides, we are using an air fryer and not deep frying the food in oil, so it's not bad for the health." he winked with a twisted smile. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a festa. It can be any festival, celebration, or use of the word. Is it food-related or an event? Is it an object or a shout-out? Who is involved and why? What happens? Go where the prompt leads!

Unexpected Weather

"Mom, it's raining stones outside, and I have bruises all over," Jules exclaimed as she entered the house, holding her head and examining her arms. 

Curious, her Mom asked, "Raining stones? In sunny California?" She quickly looked out the window and saw a hailstorm. 

The wind was forcefully throwing ice balls, creating a sound similar to throwing stones when they hit the ground. 

"Oh my, I never thought I'd see this kind of weather on our side of the country. And to think I pay high taxes for sunny days! This must be due to Global Warming," she fumed. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about the arrival of the weather. It can mean any kind of weather event meteorological or mythological. Is the weather personified, random, or calculating? Where does it arrive? Is it typical or epoch-changing? Who is involved? And if the Womam Who Doesn’t Want Red Hair shows up, well, ask her what’s happening. Go where the prompt leads!

Take Me Home, Country Roads

 

The drive from the airport to the familiar streets was heart-wrenching, as many memories kept popping up. 

I reached the colony and met my friends with fond hugs, but my eyes wandered to a particular home. 

The familiar foliage and vibes couldn't keep me from knocking on the door. 

I hoped the door would open like old times when two familiar figures would hug me with warmth and unconditional love- my parents. 

But just then, my friend interrupted my train of thought! 

"Don't do this to yourself again! You know your parents are dead, and a tenant lives here." 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about the journey home. Who is going home? Or are they in search of a future home or ancestral roots? Think of home as a life lived — adventures, relationships, accumulations. What makes home worth the journey? Go where the prompt leads!

Timing Matters

 

"I think we should take the south route," Aisha stated confidently.

Mala interjected, "But there's always traffic at this time. Let's take the inner roads instead; it'll be faster."

"I understand, but traffic helps me practice patience."

"That's good, but I want to be on time for work. Can you exercise your patience when driving alone?"

"Don't worry; I'll ensure we arrive on time."

Mala scoffed, "How? Does your car have wings?"

Despite Mala's remark, Aisha was resolute and selected the south route on her GPS.

'Why did I agree to carpool with such an immature co-worker?' thought Mala.

: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about something or someone immature. Is it a wine not yet ready to uncork or an adult not ready to adult? You can follow the flight of immature fledglings or come up with something unexpected. Go where the prompt leads!

The Drive to Write

The emotions stirred by every breath we take in life motivate us to rise each morning, take action, and express gratitude to the Universe for filling us with vigor and affection. 

These same emotions inspire me to write down the diverse stories of individuals, exploring themes that celebrate the beauty of humanity and life. 

I draw inspiration from the issues that trouble our minds and am committed to the craft of writing. Every character I create undergoes a thoughtful journey, making my novels a source of contemplation for readers.

 I've penned down a dozen contemporary fiction novels at: www.ruchirakhanna.com

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story based on the phrase “commitment in a can.” What is the commitment and to whom? Describe the can. How does it expand the story? Go where the prompt leads!

Passage of Time

"It's getting late, sonny boy! The school bus will be here anytime. Let me help you with the socks while you finish your breakfast." I said as I glanced at the clock.

"Mom, we are running late for the convocation ceremony. Allow me to help you so we can be on the roads soon." said the same boy, 21 years later, as he helped me with the socks due to my arthritic hips. 

Embracing the inevitability of time is crucial in navigating the waters of life. We must keep rowing our boat to make a difference in this lifetime. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a loving relationship with an adult child. What happens when a significant child in one’s life becomes an adult?  How did the relationship shift? What is the importance of the new dynamic? Go where the prompt leads!

A Chopping Aide

"I just can't cook." Sarah lamented.

"Why so?" inquired Leone, who was as earnest in her query as a nurse, would be to her patient.

"Gravy is the key ingredient to get texture in any dish. Alas! I can't chop onions. They bring tears to my eyes." With that, she breathed a deep sigh that was as cold as if she had just landed in the Frigid zone.

Leone quickly handed a shield to her friend, "Wear this armor before you chop onions; it will protect you from the sooty vapors that they emit, that'll prevent tears from coming."

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a golden onion. Any golden onion. One planted or harvested. An onion chopped for a meal. How can you use an onion as a prop in a character’s hand? Go where the prompt leads!

Just a Spoonful

"Hons, Could you also make me a PB&J sandwich?" Sarah requested from the room that was diagonal to the kitchen. 

"Err, how much jam should I dab on your slice? I'm aware you have a less-sugar policy."

"Just a spoonful should be good." 

Once finished, Sarah joined him at the table. She bit into her sandwich hungrily and, within a second, snorted, "Jeez! The jam is oozing out from my sandwich. Didn't I say just a spoon?" 

"You didn't specify which spoon. So, I went with the one I used to make mine," said Jason with a wide smile. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a smear of jam. Is it across a slice of toast, a white shirt, or something unexpected? The jam could be the focus or detail that ads a twist. Who are the characters with the jam and where are they situated in space and time? Go where the prompt leads!

The Power of a Compliment

"Oh, my, what a pretty frock you've worn today." complimented Nancy's kindergarten teacher when she saw her student was clinging to her mom and taking hesitant steps while the mom was dragging her. 

Nancy met eye-to-eye with her teacher. She pressed her lips and scanned her dress with a finger on her cheek. 

"Yes! It's a beautiful dress." assured Mrs. Katie, "Will you let me borrow it someday?" she asked with a broad smile and kind eyes. 

Nancy quickly nodded in negation as she walked into the class with a smile. 

"Thank you!" whispered Chloe with gratitude to Katie. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story using the phrase, “Oh, my.” It can be used in storytelling or dialog. What is the cause for such a response? Have fun with this one! Go where the prompt leads!

Am I Fine?

 

"Can you please get my meds from the counter?" requested Pam as she settled with her cup of tea.

"When you have no physical aches, why are you still consuming these pills?" asked a concerned Dave.  

"It's the mental ache, and these pills keep me high," she said with a forced smile. 

Dave frowned and was about to give his opinion.

Just then, the phone rang.

"Hi, Lisa!" said Pam while keeping eye contact with her beau.

"Life is super! I'm rocking it, my friend," said Pam with shrugged shoulders and a downward glance while fidgeting with the blanket. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that includes a lie. What is the lie? It can be subtle or blatant. Who tells the lie and why? Is it an unreliable narrator? Go where the prompt leads!

Safety Net

 "Hi, Girls!" said Amy with a wide grin and gleaming eyes as if twilight,  "I drove to school today," she said while bouncing from foot to foot. 

"Huh! But, the last time you drove, you crashed the bumper of your dad's Ford Escort into the wall. How did your dad allow it?"  asked Gloria with a gulp and curious eyes. 

"Balloons! are my safety net." 

Seeing the puzzled look in their eyes, Amy walked them to her car, which had balloons on the front and back of her bumper. 

"They'll pop, and I'll know when to screech the brakes." 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about balloons on a bumper. Is it a spectacle, an occasion, an eccentricity? Why are the balloons there? Who is involved? Go where the prompt leads!

Mr. Shame

"Mr. Shame," announced the nurse with a broad smile that displayed her braces. Her thick spectacles and wonky walk made her look like an alien. 

The young man raised his hand and was about to take steps toward her when a blonde sitting next to him got his attention, "Is that your name?" she said with a snort. 

"It's Shaine. But, Teresa tends to lisp." 

"And, you have no issues with it?" 

"The name means nothing if I have not performed any shameful action," said Shane with a broad smile, " It's all about your consciousness," leaving the blonde speechless. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story exploring shame as an emotion or theme. Consider how to use shame to drive a cause-and-effect story. How does it impact a character? Is there a change? Go where the prompt leads!

Unsolved Mystery

"Milo! Don't forget to take your prom dress and lock the main door before you leave." Mom shouted while leaving for work at at noon. 

Milo heard her and dozed off. 

The alarm clock blared at 4 pm, which made her spring up with a jolt.

"Gosh! I'm late. Let me wear my dress here instead." she locked the door behind her. 

Hours ticked by, and Mom returned from work to find the dress in her closet.

 She rushed to her school with knitted eyebrows to find Milo in one. 

"Whose dress are you wearing? Who left this behind dress?" 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about “the one who left the dress.” A 1940s-era dress still hangs in an abandoned house. Who left it and why? You can take any perspective and write in any genre. It can be a ghost story. Or not. Go where the prompt leads!