Strange Noise

No ramblings tonight, here is day 26 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt (Random First Line): Was it a knock that had woken her?

Was it a knock that had woken her? Delilah lay in bed and listened. She heard something again but was sure this time that it wasn’t a knock; it seemed more like a scratching. She rolled over, trying to chalk it up to her tabby but her senses were on alert and she couldn’t relax. Rolling back on her back, she glared up at the ceiling. She couldn’t hear anything, so damn it why couldn’t she go back to sleep? Glancing at the clock, she saw that it was just after one in the morning. Sitting up, she heard the strange noise again but this time it was louder and closer. What the hell? She reached for her phone and opened her security app, checking the cameras she couldn’t see anyone moving around but that was definitely not her cat. Reaching into her bedside drawer, she retrieved her Glock and took the safety off. Checking the cameras again, she slid her phone into her pocket and moved quietly towards her bedroom door. Easing it open, she stepped into her living room and stood for a moment, allowing her eyes to acclimate to the room and to listen for any more noises. She walked towards her alarm controls and verified that everything was set. Peering out of the window, she thought she saw movement but then nothing. Easing through the living room, she headed down the short hall towards the kitchen/dining area. As soon as she set foot in the kitchen, she heard the noise again coming loudly from her back door. Moving swiftly towards the noise, she was ready to figure out what this nonsense was and get back to bed. Peering out of the blinds, she found the source of the noise, there was a raccoon scrounging on her back porch. Relieved, she reached over, disarmed her alarm, unlocked the door, and opened the door. Turning to shoo away the raccoon, she found herself staring into the eyes of a man and then everything went black.

The Getaway

I am a little sad and a little relieved that this challenge is almost over. In one sense I am relieved because I am going to have to hit the books (school started last week) and fitting in both is not going to be easy. I am sad too because I have enjoyed flexing my creative muscles. I think that the habit of blogging all of this time has made me realize how much I do enjoy it and I know that I will definitely be doing this a lot more regularly than I had in the past.  I also have a book written by an incredibly inspiring man that I am thinking that I want to base another writing challenge around. I am not sure when I am going to do that but I will definitely put it on the calendar for sometime this year.  Anyway, enough rambling...here is day 25 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt (Random First Line): There had been many theories about how she had been murdered

There had been many theories about how she had been murdered but none of them was right since she wasn’t even dead. Rene closed the paper, reached up and smoothed her straight black hair, and thought about the article. So everyone still thought she was dead, this was good. It also looked like the police was convinced it was a murder, this was an unfortunate side effect to her plan, but it was too late to go back now. She knew that what she was doing was what had to be done but it didn’t stop that pain that she felt or the pain she was causing. She had gotten in over her head and the best way to protect everyone was to simply disappear. Hopefully, those that she had been involved with were as convinced of her death as the police. She hadn’t heard any whispers that they were looking but she had to be diligent. Stay under the radar, this is what was important. She picked up her bag and headed to the car. Like everything else in her life right now, the car was plain, generic, and completely forgettable. She headed south, knowing that she needed to put distance between her and her old life. She just had to be black haired Rene Johnson until she got to St. Louis. Once she got there, she could pick up her next identity. She hated burning through so many identities but she knew that the constant change was important if she wanted to stay safe. Getting on the highway, she had a feeling this was not going to be the last time she saw New Jersey. The trip was long and on the surface uneventful. She had the nagging feeling that there was something that wasn’t right but she wasn’t being followed. She made sure that when she checked on her old life, she did it from public places that would be hard to trace. The police seemed to be unable to determine a motive but had several suspects for her alleged murder. She knew whom she hoped they nailed it on but she figured the case would go cold. Trying to read between the lines, she didn’t see any murmurs that she was alive. The tricky part was when she hacked into the email accounts. Lots of messages but nothing that caused alarm for her, on the surface maybe it was the lack of reaction that was causing the unease and sleepless nights. Logging off the computer, she returned to her car and sat. She had a couple of more hours until she got to St. Louis and she was tired. Deciding that she wanted to try for sleep, she found motel and checked into a room. Setting up a few safety precautions as soon as she got in the room, she took a hot shower, and lay on the bed. Turning on her disposable cell, she heard the chime associated with a text message and her heart stopped. Reading the message she felt her blood run cold and finally had her answer, they knew she wasn’t dead and the hunt was on.

First Date

So I flexed my creativity in a new way today, I got to paint. I went to one of those wine and painting places (without the wine) and had a great time. I also decided to change my painting from the "example" and to make something that was me.  I can say without a doubt that I will be doing that again!  Anyway, here is day 25 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt (Random First Line): He was older than she’d expected him to be

He was older than she’d expected him to be she thought to herself as she approached the table. She really hadn’t paid much attention to his age on his profile but now she wondered. His brown eyes sparkled with flecks of green and gold and his smile, that smile was warm and sexy at the same time. She felt that while he may be older than she thought, so far she was willing to break her ten-year age limit rule. He rose from the table and greeted her with a hug. Man, oh man did her smell good. Smiling to herself, she smoothed her skirt behind her as she sat and he slid the chair for her. Hmmm so, he has manners too, that was a definite plus. He returned to his chair and the waiter appeared, taking the drink order and discretely disappearing again. Blushing, she ducked her eyes but could feel his eyes on her. “What?” she murmured. “You are even more beautiful in person than in your pictures. Really, the pictures don’t do you justice.” She saw the sincerity in his eyes and felt her blush deepen. Normally she would make some flippant comment but she just couldn’t bring herself to do that to him. “Thank you,” she stammered. “Sorry, I am not very good at taking compliments. I normally do my best to brush them off.” His smile widened and he chuckled, “I had a feeling because of the blush. Well, you should be complimented every day.” She could see the humor in his eyes and she felt herself relax. Fighting the urge to stick out her tongue, she asked him the first random question that came to mind. “So, tell me something that you have always wanted to do but haven’t done yet.” Ok, so that wasn’t a completely horrible question she thought. Not too generic but not too intimate, it gave him the opportunity to be as open as he wanted.  She studied the menu, in between stealing glances at him. She felt like a teenager because his presence was enthralling. It had been a long time since she had met any person that had this much magnetism and she wasn’t sure what it was that was so compelling. Sure, she was attracted to him but she wasn’t young and naive so she knew that she had to base it on more than the physical. He smiled and with a wicked glint in his eye replied, “Well, I would like to do you and I haven’t done that yet.” She almost choked on her water and couldn’t help the hysterical laughter that erupted from her. She also couldn’t hide the blush that crept up either. He laughed and she settled in for what she felt was going to be a very interesting evening.

Never Prepared

There is a small bit in this that is me. My Grandmother has been on my mind (more than usual) because next week marks five years since she passed away and her birthday is in February as well. She was 97 when she passed away and she was ready to go and I thought I was prepared for her passing but I wasn't prepared. Much like Lessa, no matter what I told myself I couldn't get past the hole. I still feel that emptiness, times like this it is more pronounced than others. I would give almost anything to feel her arms around me again and see her gentle smile. I actually have tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat as I type. While my rational mind tells me one thing, my heart has its own agenda. So here is day 23 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt (Random First Line): There was nothing left of the money except

There was nothing left of the money except for the $2000 to cover the cremation.  Lessa was not sure how it had happened because she had been watching every dime. Going back over the accounts, she checked and rechecked the activity but everything looked legit.  Taking her glasses off she scrubbed her hands across her face and began to massage her temples. It had been easier to channel her grief into this activity than to think about the hole in her heart. Pushing her emotions back into their box, she gathered up the last of the bills and the checks she had written to pay them, stood, and stretched. Strolling over to her purse, she put them inside, and pulled out the picture that was partially exposed. Looking down, she just stared at the smiling, happy face and couldn’t stand that she would never get to see that face in person again. She thought she was prepared for this moment but when it happened, she realized that there was no way to be prepared. She just didn’t realize that emptiness that would settle in her heart and in her soul. It didn’t matter how much she prayed, how much she knew he was at peace now, how much she tried to convince herself that this was for the best, she just wanted to be selfish. She wanted her Paw Paw back. She wanted to hear his gruff laugh and smell that smell that was distinctly him, cedar, tobacco, and fresh earth. She wanted to feel his arms around her as he hugged her tight and reminded her that everything was ok. Running her finger across the picture, she felt the tears begin to slide down her face and knew that the breakdown was coming. Sliding to the floor, she pulled her legs to her chest, wrapped her arms around them, and began to rock back and forth, as she cried. She actually did more than cry, she sobbed, feeling her world coming completely undone. Engulfed in her grief, she was oblivious to everything around her until she felt the tiny hand on her hair. “Mommy, Paw Paw told me to tell you that it was ok. He said you shouldn’t cry anymore.” Startled Lessa looked up at the face of her four-year-old daughter and saw the sincerity in her eyes. “Baby, when did Paw Paw tell you this?” “Just now, he woke me and said you needed a hug. Do you need a hug Mommy?” Grabbing her baby girl, Lessa continued to cry but felt a small glimmer of hope that perhaps she would see her Paw Paw again, someday.

Decisions Decisions

So instead of using a prompt, I just went with something that was rattling around in my head. I hope you enjoy, Day 22 of the 31 day writing challenge.

No prompt – this is just my brain working on its own

Kayla walked up to the door and pulled it open. Breathing deeply, she thought about what she was going to say when she saw him again.  She thought she was over Logan but when she saw his text, she felt all of the feelings welling up inside of her again.  She was probably going to regret this little meeting but what the hell.  Smoothing her hand down her skirt, she spotted him sitting at a table in the corner.  He didn’t see her yet and it gave her a minute to study him.  She got a little bit of satisfaction out of the fact that he looked like shit.  He was noticeably thinner and he sat hunched.  His coal black hair now had some gray at the temples and his dove grey eyes were not as bright.  Small wrinkles had appeared around his eyes and mouth but his eyes were what kept drawing her attention. It wasn’t just that they didn’t shine like she remembered but there seemed to be a depth of sadness in them that pained her.  Despite everything, she didn’t want him to be in pain.  Yes, you dumb girl you do still love him.  He finally looked her way, just as she got to the table.  Rising from his seat, a shadow of a smile passed over his face but was quickly gone.  He looked like he wanted to touch her in some way but realized that she might not appreciate the gesture, so he swept his hand towards the chair opposite his and murmured, “Thank you for coming.”  Doing her best to clap some walls up around herself and her heart, she bruskly replied, “OK, I’m here what do you want to talk to me about?”  Logan realized that he was on limited time and floundered trying to get his words out.  “I am not sure how to begin.  I know there is no way to tak…”  “Look I am not here for an apology.  So don’t waste your time or mine.  What is it you want?”  Logan fiddled with his glass of water.  “Is that vodka?  That was your drink of choice wasn’t it?”  Logan’s eyes snapped up to hers, “No, it isn’t.  I haven’t had a drink since that night.”  Kayla was surprised and did her best to hide it, “Well good for you.  I hope you stick with it.  So, anyway what is it you want?”  Logan kept his eyes fixed on hers, he had heard the caring slip into her voice when she found out he wasn’t drinking anymore.  It wasn’t much but it gave him hope and the courage to say, “What do I want?  Well the short answer?  You.”  Kayla couldn’t stop the gasp that escaped her.  She looked at him and realized that he was serious; he really did want her back.  Getting up from the table, she grabbed her purse, turned, and headed for the door without a word.  As her hands shook, she fumbled in her purse for her keys.  She could hear his footsteps behind her and knew that she was going to have to say something to him. Disarming her alarm, she opened the door to her car, tossed her purse in, and turned to look at him.  “Please, don’t walk away.  Hea…” he stammered.  “Just stop.  I can’t listen to anything from you tonight.  Let me go I need to think.”  Sliding into the car, she saw him reach out to her but she didn’t give him the chance to touch her.  Slamming the door, she started the car and pulled out of her spot heading home.  Driving off, she didn’t make it far before she had to pull over.  She sat in her darkened car, heart racing, and tears rolling down her face.  She wasn’t sure if she was happy or pissed.  She had just gotten over him, over what happened and now it was all flooding back into her. Looks like the question now was, what did she want.

Next Challenge

So I started classes tonight for my spring semester and it was definitely difficult to change gears, come home, and write this blog.  I enjoyed this one, even if it is short. I have a ton of respect for people that do the kinds of jobs that most people couldn't and wouldn't want to do. So here is day 21 of the 31 day writing challenge.

– Prompt (Random First Line): “We’re going to freeze to death!”

“We’re going to freeze to death!”  Stan exclaimed to Adam.  “You do realize we are from Texas.  We are not ready for those kinds of temperatures.”  Adam eyed his friend with disappointment, “I thought you would be up for some adventure.  Didn’t we spend all of high school and most of college talking about trying something new?”  “  New?  Yes. Crazy?  No.”  “  Come on, it is only for a couple of months.”  “  A couple of months, starting in January in Alaska.  Have you even looked at what the temperatures are like at that time?  Seriously dude, you have lost your mind.”  “  Well, I am going to do it.  I am excited to see what will happen.”  Stan looked at his lifelong friend with great exasperation, “I can tell you what is going to happen.  You are going to end up injuring yourself, probably seriously.  What do you know about crab fishing anyway?  Oh wait, let me guess you have been binge watching Deadliest Catch.  You realize that watching a show is not going to prepare you for what you are about to experience?”  “  I know but what are the odds that someone I know would end up buying a crab boat?  I mean come on, I feel obligated to give it a try.  So are you in or out?”  Adam demanded.  That sat in silence while Stan contemplated everything.  “I know this is something that you feel compelled to try and while I think you are nuts I say go for it.  As for me, I am going to pass.  I would rather spend my time trying something more my speed.” Adam recognized the determined set to Stan’s chin and knew there was nothing that would get him to change his mind.  He was disappointed but was in no way dissuaded from his decision.  The next hurdle to this was telling his parents.  He knew if Stan took it like that, his parents were going to freak out but you only got one chance at life and he didn’t want to live an ordinary one.  Pulling out his cell phone, he called Charlie and told him that he was in but that Stan was out.  Smiling he listened to his college friend whoop with delight and felt content with his decision.  Now he had a few months to prepare for his new challenge.

One Shitty Day

Day 20 of the 31 day writing challenge is done and I am glad to be on the downside of this challenge. While it hasn't been hard, it has been difficult at times to force myself into getting this done. So eleven more blogs to go and then I will definitely take a little break but I will definitely continue to blog with a regularity that I have lacked on here since I started.

Prompt (Random First Line) – The accident wasn’t her fault.

The accident wasn’t her fault but it was still going to cost her.  Her karmic balance had definitely been off.  It was as if fate was laughing at her lately.  Kay sighed as she watched as her battered car was loaded onto the tow truck.  Looking back, she saw that the officer was finishing up with the other driver. Catching her eye, he gave her the just a minute gesture and finished writing his tickets.  Kay checked her watch and realized that to add insult to injury she was going to be late to class.  Oh great, first day and I am late that should make a great first impression.  The crunch of gravel brought her attention back and she looked up as Officer Brown approached.  “Well I ticketed him for running a red light, driving without a license, and no insurance.  The report will be filed today and you should be able to get a copy of it for your insurance company tomorrow.  Are you sure you don’t need medical attention?”  Kay pulled her hand down from her neck, “No, it isn’t from the wreck but from stress. Thank you for your help.”  Kay shook hands with Officer Brown and saw her ride had arrived. Practically running to the car, she jerked open the passenger door and plopped into the seat, savoring the blast of cold air.  Her brother looked over at her with exasperation, “I swear sis, it seems like lately if it is going to go wrong it will go wrong.”  Kay laughed a humorless laugh, “Yeah, I was just thinking that myself.  Can you take me to class?”  “  Yeah it is no problem just text me in time to come back and pick you up.”  Kay arrived at class almost thirty minutes late and was nervous about going in the door.  Easing the door open, she slipped quietly into the back row of seats and pulled her laptop out.  The professor, without missing a beat, brought her a syllabus as he continued to discuss the coming semester.  Realizing that she hadn’t missed any real lecture, she sighed and glanced at what was to come.  Not wanting to piss off her professor anymore on the first day, Kay waited until class was over to text her brother.  Stealing herself, she walked to the front of class and apologized to the professor.  “It is not a problem, I am just glad that you aren’t injured.  Do you have any questions about the syllabus?”  Thanking her lucky stars that he was forgiving, she packed up and headed out to wait for her ride. Unlocking her front door, Kay sloshed in and dropped her bags by the front door.  Since this was the day from hell, it was only fitting that it ended with her being rained on as she waited.  Jumping into the shower, she tried to wash the day away.  Snuggling on her couch with her dinner and a big glass of wine, Kay tried not to think about everything that had been going on lately.  Drinking way more wine and just picking at her dinner, Kay missed her cat.  That seemed to be the first of what had been a rollercoaster of the last couple of months.  She felt like she was living a country song, cat died, boyfriend left, trouble at work, now add a probably totaled car to the mix.  Yeah, it was definitely like a country song, a really really bad country song.  If she had to look on the bright side of things, work was better, but the situation was far from good.  Realizing that a hangover would not make tomorrow any better, Kay got up and put the wine away getting a mug of tea instead.  Finishing her dinner, she decided that moping was not going to make her life better and if she was truthful, she had known that things with Eric were coming to an end.  He simply ended it before she could, not that it would have changed the outcome, but damn it she wanted to be the one that ended it!  Putting her dishes in the dishwasher, she thought you know Scarlett O’Hara may have been on to something, tomorrow was another day.  Giggling to herself, she climbed into bed and hoped and prayed that tomorrow would be better.

The Next Clue

Day 19 of the 31 day writing challenge. Enjoy!

Prompt (Random First Line): Spider threads caught at her face, a sign that no one had been there yet

Spider threads caught at her face, a sign that no one had been there yet. Cassidy stifled a squeal as a rat ran across the hall just a head of her.  She knew this had to be the place that the clue was directing her.  She couldn’t believe that after all of these years, she was able to crack the clue and find this place.  Inching her way down the hall, she was hyperaware of the scratching and shuffling that she could hear in the walls.  Holding her flashlight out, she peered down the hall to the last room on the right.  Was there a light coming from under the door?  Surely that couldn’t be right, there hadn’t been anyone down this hall in hears.  She heard a creak to her left and swung the flashlight that way, she thought she saw movement but it was probably just another rodent. Her heart was thudding in her throat and she didn’t see that changing anytime soon.  Creeping along the hall, she grew closer to the room.  This room would hold the clue to the next step in this crazy game. Coming to a dead stop outside of the room, she hadn’t been imagining the light she had seen there was definitely a soft yellow glow coming from inside the room.  She reached a shaking hand out and grasped the cold, dusty doorknob.  Holding her breathe she twisted the handle and pushed the door open.  It groaned with years of disuse and swung open to reveal an empty room with a single candle burning in the middle of the floor.  What the fuck?  She stepped inside towards the candle and felt a cold chill brush her back.  Turning quickly, she once again thought she saw movement but couldn’t see anyone.  Stepping closely to the candle, she knelt and examined it closely.  The candle had not been burning long but how did it get here?  She picked the candle up and began to walk around the room.  Coming to the window, she could see that the dust on the window seal had been disturbed.  Reaching to the window it was locked tight and she was unable to open it even after she unlocked it.  Looking around, she was so confused.  She knew this had to be the place but what the hell was going on?  Walking back towards the door, she thought she saw movement again and this time she was sure she heard a whisper.  Whipping back around, Cassidy let out an ear-shattering scream.  There in the middle of the room, right where the candle had been lay the body of a woman.

The Hard Choice

Sometimes writing these prompts, I ease into subjects about which I don't have first hand knowledge. I have done that on this blog. I have never been a mother and I have never suffered a mental illness but like so many others I have read the stories about these cases gone terribly wrong. I thought instead of writing something horrific, that I would write a small scene about an ill mom doing the devastatingly courageous act of giving her child up and getting help. So here is day 18 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt (Random First Line): The pink glove lay on the ground, almost covered

The pink glove lay on the ground, almost covered by snow.  Carrie dug the glove out and held the tiny, fuzzy glove in her hand.  She couldn’t believe that this was all she had left.  She sank to the ground and brought the glove to her face, inhaling the lingering scent of her baby girl.  Layla was gone she was really gone.  Carrie knew she had done the right thing that her life was far too unstable to properly raise a two year old but that didn’t keep her heart from breaking.  Oblivious to the cold, she held that only physical reminder she had and cried.  She cried for everything that she would miss.  Staggering to her feet, she gathered her bags and put them in the car. It was time for her to get on the road.  Her only hope was that with a lot of hard work on her part, she might one day be reunited with her baby girl.  Starting the engine, she headed to the psychiatric hospital that her parents had found for her.  They had offered to be here with her during all of this and to drive her to the hospital but Carrie felt like this was important for her to do on her own.  What everyone in her life had written off, as the baby blues had been much more.  The final straw had been when Carrie began to think about harming Layla.  Thankfully, she hadn’t acted on it but as soon as she had a lucid moment, she had called her parents for help.  Signing her daughter over to her sister and brother-in-law hadn’t been a tough decision; she knew they would love her unconditionally.  What was hard was convincing her family never to bring Layla to see her in the hospital.  She wanted her baby girl to have a normal happy childhood and that wouldn’t happen if she were constantly drug to the mental hospital to visit her.  She would make contact with her child, if and only if, she knew she was no longer a danger to her or to anyone else.  Pulling up to the hospital, she was actually relieved to see her parents waiting for her. Her mother grabbed her and hugged her tightly, while her dad got her things out of the car.  Walking her in, they escorted her to her new home.

Turning of the Tide

So I said earlier that I would write two blogs today and I stuck to it and got this one written. I used an app that I downloaded a while ago to generate a random first line and used that for this blog.  The app will also generate random plots and random characters.  I may use this again, just to mix things up.  I hope you enjoy day 17 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt (Random First Line from an app I have): He had enjoyed ten years of being totally irresponsible.

 

He had enjoyed ten years of being totally irresponsible.  Dave had enjoyed his rich guy bachelor life.  He worked hard but he played harder, just like the cliché. He didn’t care if people thought he was a spoiled rich kid, he knew better.  All that had mattered to him was making money and enjoying life, isn’t that what was at the heart of the American Dream?  He looked as Cynthia again as he turned back in to her talking.  She was fidgeting with her coffee cup and rambling about doctors.  “Wait a minute, wait just one fucking minute,” he snapped.  “So you call out of the blue after four years and tell me that I have a kid, and not just a kid but a sick kid and you expect me to take it at face value?” Cynthia looked, anger flashing in her eyes, “Yes, I expect you to believe me because I have no reason to lie.”  “Oh yeah?  I can think of a few million,” he barked with laughter.  “I don’t want your money.  The only thing I want from you is your bone marrow, or for you to be tested at least.”  “  So you expect me to believe that all you want is that and then you are just going to fade back into the background.  No money, no little help with the medical bills, or anything like that eh?”  “  Jesus Christ, you really are full of yourself.  I don’t want anything from you except for you to get tested to see if you can help save my child’s life.”  “  Oh your child, not our child?  I thought you said the kid was mine.”  “  It is your child you fuck wad but I don’t want or expect you to have anything to do with our lives.  Why do you think I never told you I was pregnant?  I knew you wouldn’t care.  Heaven forbid if some real responsibility interferes with your perfect precious life.  Just take the test and if you are a match donate.  That’s it.  It won’t even put you down and out for more than a week.”  Dave eyed her and thought about what she was saying.  So he had a kid, maybe, and she didn’t want anything from him but bone marrow.  Hmmm, he wondered if he could get her to sign something that stated that and protect himself.  “So would you be willing to sign a waiver that releases me from any financial obligations?”  “Look, I will sign whatever the hell you want as long as you get tested and then donate,” she snapped.  Cynthia got up and flung a card on the table.  “This is the doctor.  Call him and set up an appointment.  Once you have been tested and we find out if you are a match I will sign your release.”  He looked at her and picked up the card.  Frowning he said, “This guy is one of the top oncologists in the city.  How can you afford him?”  She eyed him levelly, “That is none of your business, are you going to make the appointment?”  “Yeah, I guess.  I will get a hold of my lawyer and get those papers drawn up as well.”  She reached into her purse and pulled out another piece of paper, “You really are a piece of work you know that?  You would actually blackmail me into signing an agreement by withholding lifesaving treatment from your child.”  She laughed a humorless laugh and tossed the piece of paper on the table.  Dave picked up what was actually a photograph and looked into the sea green eyes of his daughter.  “Her name is Hope in case you were wondering,” she said as she stormed off.  Dave stared at the tiny face that looked so much like his mother but with his eyes.  There was no doubt this was his child and in that moment he felt his world shift.

Awkward Reunion

So I missed posting last night because I was sick. I know life happens but I really wanted to post every day.  I will be posting twice today to get back on track.  Here is the post that I was going to do last night.  I hope you enjoy day 16 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt: “Maybe I just don’t find you funny.”

Nick took a swig of his beer as his old friends began to laugh.  Looking at the gathered guys, he could see the changes that the last few years had taken on all of them.  They didn’t look like boys anymore but looked like men.  Guess that is what happens when you leave home and head out on the next step, for some it had been college, others enlistment, and a couple like him, it had been life.  He had decided that what he needed was to see what the world had to offer before he decided what he wanted to do next.  He had worked all during high school and for a year after, saving everything that, he could.  With the blessings of his parents, he set off to explore.  The two years he spent traveling the world had changed him in more ways than just his physical appearance.  He realized now that collectively he and his friends had been assholes and looking at them now, he knew that he wouldn’t be doing this again.  He got up to get another beer, asking if anyone wanted anything.  Pulling beers, he headed back out.  Resuming his seat, he glanced over at Chad.  How did he never notice before what an asshole he was?  Even his eyes looked small and mean and everything that had come out of his mouth this evening had been a joke at someone else’s expense.  “Dude, what the fuck is your problem?”  Chad snarled at him, catching him staring at him.  “What do you mean?”  Nick calmly replied.  “You have been sitting over there hardly talking to anyone and not laughing at anything,” Chad barked.  “Maybe I just don’t find you funny anymore,” Nick stated.  “Oh so you think you are better than us now is that it Mr. World Traveler?”  “No, I just know that I no longer have anything in common with you.  That doesn’t mean I think I am better, just different.  People change, I am sure that I am not the only one here that has changed but it appears that you haven’t changed at all,” Nick replied getting up.  “I am not trying to be a dick but I don’t think I belong here anymore.”  “You are a dick, always have been and always will be,” Chad growled. Nick threw his beer in the trash and headed for the front door.  Just as he made it outside, he heard footsteps behind him turning he saw Aaron.  “Look I don’t want to argue with anyone,” Nick sighed.  “No it isn’t that, ummm…well there were a couple of us talking and we want to get together without Chad.  We thought it might be fun to get all the guys together again like high school but yeah, you are right.  We have changed and he hasn’t changed at all,” Aaron replied quietly.  “I will text you and let you know when we are going to meet up in case you want to come,” Aaron said turning to go back inside.  “Yeah, I just might do that.”  Nick headed down the sidewalk and walked back to his parent’s house.  It was nice to know that there was hope for some of his old friendships.

Chance Meeting

I watched a wonderful and terribly sad movie today, The Fault in Our Stars, and I just couldn't bring myself to write my usual mystery, death, doom, and gloom.  LOL. I was touched by the sweet romance of Hazel and Augustus and decided that I need to write a small bit of romance.  So here is day 15 of the 31 day writing challenge.  I hope you enjoy.

Prompt: Write a story that takes place at a birthday party.

Grace stood in the corner of the room and brooded with her drink.  She couldn’t believe that she had allowed herself to be talked into coming to Deanna’s birthday party.  She didn’t even like Deanna.  She would much rather be at home on her couch in her favorite Texans t-shirt and shorts preferably with a good book or watching the game on TV.  She pulled her phone out for the hundredth time and checked the score, oh man the Rockets were tied with the Thunder with two minutes left in the game.  Looking around, she realized that no one would notice if she slipped out to the balcony to watch the rest of the game.  Sitting her drink down, she slide through the crowd and out of the door.  Pulling her sweater tighter, she opened the NBA Live app and tuned into the game.  She was so intent on the action; she didn’t even hear the door slide open again.  It wasn’t until she heard the flipped of the zippo that she realized that someone else was on the patio.  Inching to one side, she turned her attention to the end of the game.  Forgetting where she was, she yelled at her phone, “Calling a fucking foul!  He was hacked.”  She heard the chuckle and remembered she wasn’t at home.  “Sorry,” she mumbled over her shoulder.  Holding her breath, she didn’t even listen for a response but waited for the final seconds to tick down.  “So what is the score?” drawled the voice behind her.  “102-103, Rockets lead with 19 seconds left,” she threw over her shoulder.  Gritting her teeth to keep from yelling Grace groaned when Trevor missed his first free throw.  As he bounced the ball for his second attempt, Grace felt a presence behind her and turned looking up into a face that was more interesting than handsome.  “Sorry, I just wanted to see the end,” he said as he stepped back some.  “No worries, I just didn’t know you were behind me.”  She held her phone out for him to see and was giddy with happiness as Harden stole the inbound pass and slammed the ball home.  “YES!” she yelled and the man could not contain his chuckle.  “If you were so interested in watching the game, what are you doing here?”  “My friend drug me here, full guilt trip, and all.  I would have much rather been home watching the game.”  Stepping away from him, she put her phone in her pocket.  “So you like basketball and not parties. Interesting.  I’m Mason,” he said extending his hand.  “Grace,” she replied gripping his hand firmly.  “Sorry but I have to go,” she mumbled.  “Why are you running off?  You are the most interesting person that I have met tonight.”  “  What makes you think I am interesting?” she challenged.  “Well, all the other women here are dressed like they are going clubbing and inside fighting for attention but you came in jeans and converse and snuck outside to watch basketball.  In my book, that makes you interesting.”  She looked at him, not sure how to respond. She found herself attracted to him but she couldn’t figure out why.  His voice was slow and deep with a definite Southern drawl.  His face was angular with a large scare running down one cheek.  His dark hair was rumpled but his eyes, his clear green eyes were kind and sparkled with humor. He was looking at her as if he knew she was about to bolt.  “I’m really not that interesting.”  Just as he was about to respond, the door slid open.  “There you are Grace come on they are about to bring out her birthday cake,” Amy demanded pulling her arm.  “Sorry, I have to go,” she murmured to him.  Allowing herself to be pulled forward, she looked back, met his eyes, and knew that this would not be the last time that she spoke to him.

The Message

YAY!  I got home early and was able to get this blog done a lot earlier than normal.  I like this character that I created and may have to file her away for future use.  I hope you enjoy, day 14 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt – While at the grocery store, your character halts in front of the magazine display. They are placed so the largest letter on each cover is arranged in a message – what does it say? What are the words they can’t ignore?

Kono strolled through the market pushing her basket distractedly throwing items in her cart.  Roaming the aisles, she kept glancing at her watch.  Realizing she had just two more minutes, she started towards the front of the store.  Glancing around the store, it was fairly empty for 3:28 on a Wednesday afternoon.  She would have preferred to have more people around to make her less noticeable but she was good at not standing out.  Checking the time again, she saw that it was time.  Heading to the magazine stand, she stood casually as if she was just deciding on what magazine she wanted.  Taking out her cell phone she carefully snapped several pictures of the display.  Checking the qualities of the pictures, she grabbed a magazine randomly off the rack and threw it in her cart.  She knew better than to look around now, the bearer of the message would not want to be seen, that was part of the arrangement.  Placing her items on the conveyor belt, she tried not to be impatient.  Pulling the cash out of her pocket, she quickly paid for her items and headed for her car.  Putting her bags in the back seat, she got in quickly and drove away.  She headed for the local mall, knowing she could get lost in the parking garage ensuring she wasn’t followed.  Finding a spot, she pulled out her phone and began to inspect the pictures.  She quickly realized that the magazines had been arranged to give her the address of her pickup.  Looking up the address, she saw that it was only about twenty minutes away.  She smiled to herself and backed out of the spot, heading home.  Once home, she threw the bags on the table and pulled out her computer.  Utilizing her computer skills, she pulled up satellite images of the pickup spot.  Finding all of her exits, she also realized that there had to have been something else in the message that she missed.  Pulling her cell phone out, she connected it to her computer and pulled the pictures up.  Blowing the image up she saw what she had missed, the only words visible at the bottom of the last magazine said bottom of the box.  Going back to the satellite images, she saw the mailbox and new that would be where she would find the name of her target.  Changing her clothes, she headed to her garage and pulled out a set of New Jersey plates, squatting down she switched the plates on her car.  Sliding in to the driver seat, she headed out to find out who her buyer had paid her a million dollars to kill.

Beyond Comprehension

I have been enjoying this writing challenge so much, that it is hard to believe that I am almost half way through it.  It is so easy to let life get in the way of the things that we enjoy but I have found this exercise relaxing (for the most part).  I know it will get a little more challenging next week when classes start back and when I start on my research fellowship but I just have to think of this as a form of therapy and stress relief. I probably won't write everyday after this challenge but I will be doing another 31 day challenge and possibly 2 instead of one.  So without further delay, here is day 13 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt: He didn’t even know her name, yet he felt sorry for her, - for the pain that she was going to live through…

“DR. O’MALLEY TO THE ER….DR. O’MALLEY TO THE ER STAT!” Shawn heard the page as he was reaching for his ringing phone. Dumping his coffee in the trash, he answered his phone as he hurried to the ER, “O’Malley.”  “Dr. we have a severe trauma 2 minutes out.”  “I am on my way.”  Picking up his pace, Shawn rounded the corner and pushed open the door to the stairs. Hurrying down, he got there as the ambulance pulled up to the doors.  “What have we got?” he barked at the paramedic.  “Unidentified female multiple blunt force injuries, multiple broken bones, severe head trauma, bp 60 over 40.  She coded in the ambulance but we got her back.”  Shawn didn’t even think he acted on instinct.  After ten years as an emergency room doctor, he had become a master at controlling his emotions and focusing on the task at hand but seeing the broken and battered body of this young girl gave even him pause.  “Do we know what happened to her to cause the injuries?”  “No,” the paramedic lamented, “she was found like this on the side of a road.  We could find no clear indications that it was a car but ….  Jesus, what else could do so much damage?”  “  You would be surprised, humans are perfectly capable of doing this to each other,” Shawn replied.  “Well, I am not sure I would call someone capable of doing this human.”  “You might be right about that,” Shawn murmured.  Turning his attention back to his patient, he began to bark orders to the nurses and residents. Doing his best, he worked valiantly to stabilize his patient enough for surgery.  Time passed as they worked and he was unaware if it had been minutes or hours.  What did become clear was that these injuries were inflicted over a long period and were done at the hands of a person.  For some reason he felt a connection to this girl and every new discovery was like a knife in his heart.  Looking at the x-rays and her multitude of injuries was gut wrenching.  She barely had a bone in her body that was not broken or fractured.  He heard the loud and angry voice of his favorite nurse right outside the curtain, “I don’t care what you need right now detective, we are trying to save this girl’s life!”  “Let them in,” Shawn said. The detectives paused just inside the curtain and stared at the battered woman.  “Do you have an identity on her?”  Shawn tried his best not to snap.  “Not yet.  Can we get her fingerprints before you move her?”  “  Yes, if you can make it quick.  We are about to take her to surgery.  Oh and you better take her clothes as well.”  “  Why is that Doc?”  “  Because this young woman was beaten, tortured, and rapped over a long period.  I don’t know what you will find on her clothes but hopefully you can find something.” The detectives grimaced upon hearing the news but moved quickly to get her fingerprints.  Collecting her clothing as she was wheeled to the OR, the detectives prepared to leave.  Shawn watched her

roll away and then turned to the detectives.  “We didn’t get to do a full kit but we collected a partial rape kit.  Nurse Jones can get that for you.”  “  Thanks Doc,” the pair murmured as they headed for the nurse’s station.  Shawn stood and looked at the blood and debris that littered the floor.  He turned and headed for the locker room to change.  Standing in the shower, he found himself fighting back tears as he thought of what that poor girl had gone through.  He might not know her name but damn he felt sorry for her.  Sorry for what she had gone through and what she was going to go through...if she lived.

Play Time

Today has been a bit surreal for me.  I found out that I was awarded a research fellowship that I had applied for just after Christmas.  I am beyond excited for the opportunity but I had written it off as something that I was not going to be doing this semester.  Now, I have to change mental gears and start thinking about my research proposal and planning school, research, workouts, work, and life for the next few months.  I know that I am up for the challenge and more importantly I am happy for the changes that are coming my way and the path that my life is on.  However, enough about that for now.  Here is day 12 of the 31 day writing challenge.  I hope you enjoy it.

Prompt: Your antagonist made a promise as a child. He or she could not keep it. What was the promise?

Lacey look from the picture to the person in front of her.  It was hard to believe that these were the same person but they were.  She had known Cali for thirty years.  They grew up as next-door neighbors and became fast friends as young girls.  “Haven’t you ever made a promise that you just couldn’t keep, Cali?”  Lacey whispered.  “Well, I did.  That promise that we made to each other so long ago.  You know the one, where we promised always to be there for each other?  Yeah, well I can’t keep that one.  In fact, I think I have done just the opposite of that.” Cali lay there, unable to move and stared in horror at the glassy eyed woman that until a few years ago had been her best friend.  She was not sure how she had missed the madness that captured her friend’s soul but she was caught in its throws now.  She tried to wiggle her hands and hopefully loosen the bindings but it only seemed to make them tighter.  Her squirming drew Lacey’s attention back to her and she froze.  “Oh…oh…Cali it is too late for that.  Don’t fight what is happening.  It truly is what is for the best.  Don’t worry, it will be over soon.”  Lacey smiled her maniacal smile and got up to look out the window.  Cali could see the sun setting and knew that her time was growing short.  She groped around behind her looking for something, anything that could help her.  Inching like a worm, she wiggles her bound hands and feet as silently as she could desperation starting to make her panic.  Taking her eyes off Lacey, she looked around in the fading daylight scanning the ground for something to help break the bindings.  Spying a nail in the rubble pile she began frantically to wiggle her way over, keeping her eyes glued to Lacey’s back.  The strange humming was unnerving her and she knew by the tune that her friend was once again lost in childhood memories.  “Did you know that my Dad used to bring me here?  He owned this house until his death and then it passed to me.  I figured that when he died, he passed his practice on to me too but I knew that my first had to be special.  That is why I brought you here.  You are special and will make this more memorable.”  Cali had frozen as the sound of Lacey’s voice but she had never turned and now Cali doubled her efforts.  Her instincts were telling her that she had to hurry because there would be no reasoning with this person.  The humming began again and Cali finally closed her hands on the nail.  Squirming back to her original position, Cali began to work frantically on the bindings on her hands.  Several times, she missed the duct tape and jabbed the nail into herself.  Wrists slick with sweat and blood, Cali pulled and felt some give in the bindings.  Jabbing hard, she couldn’t keep her breathing under control anymore.  Panting, she pierced her palm again and whimpered in pain.  Feeling the tape again with the nail she jabbed repeatedly, yanking her wrists apart as she went.  One last yank and her hands jerked free.  Cali yelped in surprise and heard the humming stop. Holding her breathe she continued to stare as she watched Lacey’s dead eyes turn back to her.  Looking over her shoulder, she realized that the sunlight was completely gone.  “It’s time my friend,” Lacey sing-songed, “It’s time to play.”  Cali gripped the nail as tight as she could and braced herself to fight.

Five Important Ingredients

A friend's grandmother passed away and seeing her pictures made me think about my grandmother.  My Grandmother was a beautiful and kind woman.  I miss her everyday.  While, I didn't get the opportunity to cook with her often, when I did it was wonderful.  She put love in everything that she did and in some small way I think this captures her spirit.  I hope you enjoy this day 11 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt – List five ingredients that you would use to cook a perfect meal.

Betty sat on her stool beside her kitchen island and smiled as she watched her grandbabies roll out the cookie dough.  She remembered all those years ago when her Granny had taught her to make these same cookies.  Well it started with these cookies but it turned into so much more.  She loved the weekends she could spend with her Granny in the kitchen.  She always learned so much more than cooking during those visits.  She could still hear the rasp of her Granny’s voice, the smell of her jasmine perfume, the feel of her hands as they caressed Betty’s hair.  Smiling at the memory, she reached over and stroked Ellie’s hair.  Unlike in her day, when boys were not allowed in the kitchen, Betty was ecstatic to have Benjamin in hers.  She hoped someday they would remember these times with as much fondness as she.  “Now those look perfect.  It is time to cut them.  Pick the shape you want and remember to flour your cutter.”  “  Yes, ma’am,” they both squeaked with delight.  This was the first time they had actually been allowed to cook something and it was cookies!  Betty hobbled over to their side, her bad hip having stiffened up as she sat.  “Now we want to put those on the cookie sheet.  Remember what Nana said?”  “  Yes, ma’am!  Cook with care, patience, humor, passion, and love because those are the ingredients that matter.”  “  That’s right babies.  So you use care when you put those on the cookie sheet and then we will use patience while we wait for them to cook.”  Betty remembered the day her Granny had taught her the most important ingredients to cook with weren’t actually food.  “Baby Girl, these ingredients are the most important part of cooking and in life.  You take care with what you prepare, just like you take care with how you treat people.  You take patience with your food, because it takes time for it to cook; and remember to use that in how you deal with people.  You never know what someone else is going through.  Not everyone will treat you like you expect to be treated and you must remember your patience in dealing with them.  You must cook with humor because no matter how much you may plan; there is usually a curveball along the way just like in life Baby Girl.  You must cook with passion because if you don’t have passion in what you do it will reflect in your final product.  Finally, you must cook with love.  You must live with love and cook with love because to live any other way will leave you empty.  Even if it means you might get burned, physically and emotionally, you have to live with love.”  Betty felt a tear slide down her cheek as she recalled her Granny’s voice instilling this wisdom to her.  Taking the cookie sheet and sliding it in the oven, she set the timer and turned to see her grandbabies beaming with pride.  Hmmm, I wonder if the love I feel right now looking at these two angels was the same love her Granny had felt that day.  She prayed it was and pulled her babies close for a hug.

Unwilling Participant

Whew!  I finished this one in just the nick of time.  I have been so busy having a relaxing day (hahaha) that I almost didn't get this one done on time.  I hope you enjoy day 10 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt – We jogged into the national park, and with a quick change of clothes, we’re just another pair of hikers.

Henry grabbed the bags from the backseat and yelled at Lynn, “Hurry the fuck up!  We don’t want to lose our connection and we are running behind.”  Lynn climbed out of the car, grabbed her stuff, and heaved a loud sigh.  “I know we are running behind, that cow was taking her time with the money.  Shit she almost made us get caught.”  Walking to the side the pair sat their bags on the ground and returned to the car.  Dousing it with gasoline, Lynn threw the can inside and walked to the back of the car.  Henry threw in the lighter and ran to Lynn.  The two pushed the flaming car over the side of the ravine.  They headed for they bags and began to run.  Locating the path that was on their map, they jogged into the national park.  Jogging deeper into the woods, they decided it was time to ditch their clothes.  With a quick change, they were just another pair of hikers.  Stuffing everything into their backpacks, they took a minute to catch their breaths.  Looking over, Henry could see that Lynn was nervous and scared.  “Don’t worry, with the exception of the little time delay everything is going as planned.”  “I know but I just want to get this done and over.  As soon as I have my baby in my arms again and we are on that plane then I will be able to breathe easily.”  “  I know, I know.  We will get him back.”  Pulling her close, he hugged her, “I am sorry Sis.  I never meant to get you involved in all of this.”  “  Yeah well, I am in it now and we need to move.”  Glancing at his watch, Henry began to jog down the path with Lynn right behind him.  Keeping an ear out for hikers, he knew that they couldn’t be seen jogging without drawing unwanted attention.  Hearing nothing, he jogged faster his gut telling him that everything was far from ok.  Glancing back at Lynn, he could see she had the same feeling.  As they round the path he could see the fork they were to take to meet their connection.  Slowing, he listened carefully and to his relief still didn’t hear sirens but the nagging

in his gut wouldn’t go away.  Taking the fork, they began to jog again and they were both paranoid by the lack of hikers.  After what seemed like hours, they finally came to the sign that would lead them to their connection.  Checking the time, Lynn saw that they were a few minutes early.  Stopping just shy of their meeting spot, the pair hefted their packs off their backs and dropped them at their feet.  Leaning back against a tree, they tried to catch their breath.  Closing her eyes, Lynn let her thoughts wander to Charlie.  She ached to hold him again and just hoped there really was honor among thieves.  Hearing a crack of a branch, Lynn’s eyes snapped open just as she felt a searing pain.  Turning her head she saw her brother falling to the ground and her last conscious thought was of her baby Charlie.

A Final Meeting

If you have read some of my previous posts, the basis of this blog will seem familiar.  I used a random prompt but built it around the protagonist of the novel I have been writing and the killer.  I purposely didn't reveal who the killer was because DUH...I don't want to spoil it.  I have done other of these little snippits that allow me to explore the characters and make them more well rounded people (in my head anyway).  So I hope you enjoy day 9 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt – She almost reached her car when she heard ______________. She stopped and turned around. Write about why she can’t leave.

She almost reached her car when she heard his voice.  She stopped and turned around, staring into the eyes of her parents’ killer.  “I know why you came here Katy.  You figured out that I killed your parents.”  Katy began to shake with rage and fear, “How did you know I was here?”  “I have been following you.  What did you think you stupid bitch?  You just couldn’t leave well enough alone.  That worthless brother of yours was going to die and I was going to get away with it but you just couldn’t let it go.” “Did you ever love us…love them?  They loved you.”  “  Oh yeah they loved me, bullshit.  They never loved me, especially that cunt mother of yours.” Instinctually, Katy lashed out slapping him.  “DO.  NOT.  CALL.  MY.  MOM.  THAT.  EVER.”  He laughed, stepping closer, “Apparently, you have forgotten who you are dealing with little bitch.”  Grabbing a hand full of her hair, he jerked her head back and pressed the knife to her throat.  “You know, this is the same knife I used to kill them.  I didn’t think I would have to use it again but it is rather fitting that it will be here.”  Katy tried to think but she couldn’t figure out what to do.  He slid the knife down her sternum and then slid it back into his pocket, jerking her forward he pulled her towards her childhood home and the scene of her parents’ death.

One Last Cuddle

****WARNING - This post contains explicit language and sexual language**** Just wanted to make sure that was out there before anyone read any further.  I was given this writing prompt by a friend and she was happy with the response.  I hope you enjoy it was well. Day 8 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt - You wake up next to a stranger’s body.  Tell me what happened that has you next to it.

Marah stretches and yawns, snuggling closer to the man behind her.  Memories of the previous night flood her mind and she runs her hands down her naked body.  She feels the stickiness that lingers on her body and smiles to herself.  She rolls over, draping an arm and a leg over the man.  She can’t remember his name but it doesn’t really matter anymore.  Running her hand down his chest and burying her face in his neck, she sighs.  I hate that they can’t stay warm until I leave.  She opens her eyes and looks at his face.  Hmmm, this one was more handsome than the others were but they are all disposable.  She traces the lines of his face with her fingers, sliding her finger inside his mouth. Biting her lip, she remembers him insider her the night before.  Like most men, he was so easy to pick up especially with a promise of free liquor and free pussy.  Running her hands down his body, she reaches for his now flaccid cock and moans thinking about her orgasm last night.  Nothing makes her cum harder than plunging the ice pick into their neck, while she rides them.  Looking at his blood splattered face, she feels herself getting turned on again.  Hoping she has some time to relive the memory and cum again she glances over at the clock, damn she sees that it is almost 5 am.  Damn, damn, damn, she needs to get up and get home.  She has to shower and get her daughter off to school.  Plus, she was due in court by 10.

A Fresh Start

No razzle and dazzle tonight...here is day 7 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Writing Prompt – A man must convince his lover that moving and a fresh start is best.

Jake sat, with his head in his hands. He knew that the conversation that was coming was not going to be easy. It was going to take every bit of persuasion that he had to get Ryan to move but he knew he was right. Wandering around their condo, he read the email for the millionth time, double the pay. DOUBLE the pay and the job he had always wanted but he knew convincing Ryan to leave their family and friends was not going to be easy but damn it he wasn’t asking him to move to another country, yet. He started trying to get his thoughts together because glancing at his watch, Ryan should be home in about half an hour. Hmmmm…maybe I should ply him with wine first. Not a bad idea, rushing into the kitchen he desperately scanned the wine rack looking for Ryan’s favorite. Ahhh perfect, one bottle of sparkling muscato left. Putting it in the blast chiller, he scrounged around for something to pair with it. Pulling out a plate, he gathered the last of their brie, grapes, strawberries, gouda, apples, and water crackers. This should definitely make Ryan happy. Heading back over to the wine rack, he look for a back up, just in case one bottle was not enough. Hmmmm, red muscato it was going to have to be. Everything ready, Jake continued to pace. He was so excited about what this could mean for their future and he just hoped he could get Ryan to see the potential.

He heard the key in the lock and went to the door. He could keep the smile off his face, and as soon as Ryan came in he grabbed him and kissed him deeply. Ryan was shocked but pleased with his enthusiastic welcome home and leaned into the kiss, running his hands down Jake’s back. Pulling back a little breathless, Ryan whispered, “Are you going to talk to me or fuck me because I know there is a reason behind that greeting.” Jake laughed, kissed him on the forehead and took his hand. Leading Ryan into the living room, he took his bag from him and headed into the kitchen. He reappeared with the tray of goodies and the wine. Ryan was seated on the sofa and looked a little apprehensive. “So what gives? I know I didn’t forget our anniversary, so what brought all this on, on a Tuesday no less?” Jake sat, poured the wine and looked at Ryan with deep intensity. “Please hear me out, completely before you say anything.” Ryan gulped his wine, nervous about whatever was coming. Jake began, “You know how much I have wanted to be an editor. I have dreamed of the opportunity to work for Penguin books for a long time. Well, I found out they had an opening for a junior editor and I thought I would take a chance and apply. I know I should have told you but I didn’t think anything would come of it. Well, they contacted me a month ago and wanted to do a video interview with me. I still didn’t think anything would come of it, so I kept my mouth shut and did the interview. Then two weeks ago, they contacted me and wanted me to come in for a face to face interview. The senior editor was going to be in Dallas, and decided that it would be the perfect time to interview me. I flew up on Friday and interviewed with her. She is just so lovely and bright and charming and everything I ever hoped for in a potential boss. I still didn’t say anything because well I didn’t want to get my hopes up and saying it out loud made it so real,” Jake paused to take a drink of wine. Ryan sat stunned and Jake could see the glimmer of hurt in his eyes. Taking a deep breath he continued, “So I got a call today from Isabelle and she offered me the job. ME! Can you believe it? She wants me to be a junior editor in the young adult division of Penguin books. Do you know what this means baby? Do you?” Ryan sat down his wine and leaned in and kissed Jake, “Of course I am not surprised that they want you. Your are very talented but why don’t you tell me what the catch is? I know you and I know that there is a catch to all of this, otherwise you would have told me all of this from the beginning.”
Jake finished his glass of wine, poured them both another and said, “The job is in Seattle and they want me to start in three weeks. I have to give them an answer by Thursday.” Jake prepared for the explosion and was shocked by the utter silence. Ryan leveled his gaze at Jake and said, “Let me get this straight, you want us to pick up and move in three weeks to the other side of the country? You want us to move away from our HOME and FAMILY and FRIENDS to fucking hippy country? HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND?” Jake rallied, “Hear me out on this, please. I swear I didn’t deliberately do this to deceive you. I didn’t honestly think I would get the job. But baby I did, I got the job I have always wanted and I have so much opportunity to move up. They are going to pay me DOUBLE, did you hear me DOUBLE what I am making now, and that is to start. Within two years I could be making double that. This will give us the financial freedom to do so many of the things we have been wanting to do. Now I know that it isn’t home but well we both know, the west coast are a lot more welcoming to gay couples than Texas. Also, this would give us the financial ability to start our family. You could even take off the first two years with the baby like you wanted to do. I know that moving is going to be hard but we can still visit and they can visit us.” Jake had dropped to his knees in front of Ryan, begging, “Please baby, I can’t do this without you. I want this for me but I want this for us. A fresh start, a new place, new memories, no exes to be jealous of, no nosy parents dropping in all the time, no more pinning vacations on pinterest but actually taking them, no more worrying about commissions. I looked at schools there and they are desperate for teachers. You can take your pick of schools. Please, please tell me you will think about it.”
Ryan reached out, cupping Jake’s face, “This really means this much to you? You would really make enough for us to start our family? Really?” Jake kissed Ryan’s palm, “Yes, yes , yes to all of the above and I swear if we hate it, we will move back here as soon as my contract is up. I just need to give this a shot. I need this as much as I need the air I breathe and as much as I need you. I can’t live with the what ifs. SO what do you think?” “I think that we have a lot to work out but when we exchanged our vows, I said I was with you no matter what. So, now start over and tell me everything…….”

The Close Escape

Like anything else, this is definitely something that takes work and commitment.  I find myself at times, thinking of making excuses about why I can't do the blog tonight (rather pathetic when I am only on day six) but I keep making myself log on to the computer and do it anyway.  I probably didn't pick the greatest month to decide to do a 31 day writing challenge but I did and despite long hours at work, illness, and the general I don't wannas I am going to stick with it.  I am going to look for a few that take some more thought and effort to do soon but for now, here is day 6 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt: Describe your getaway from the scene of a crime.

I stand in the shadows, breathless at what I have just witnessed.  Did I really just see that?  Easing my cell phone out of my pocket, I try to capture a picture of the criminal.  I quietly step further back into the shadows, my heart is hammering so loud I swear he has to be able to hear it.  For some reason my mind is clear enough to worry about my phone giving me away, so I quickly silence the ringer.  Staring at the killer groping around the body, I realize it is just a matter of time before he makes his escape.  I need to move and quickly.  Backing away, I am afraid to turn my back to him, I inch further and further up the street.  When I think I may be far enough away to turn my back safely, I turn and run.  Glancing back, I see no one.  Heart hammering, I look around and still see no one.  How is it possible that there is NO ONE around?  In a city this size and every person is somewhere else now?  My heart is in my throat as I glance back and realize that there is someone after all and they are moving swiftly towards me.  I break out into a full sprint, the air is ripping out of my lungs, and I am not sure how much longer I can go.  The blood rushes in my ears and I cannot distinguish my footsteps from the others.  I see lights ahead and pray to God that there are people.  I chance a glance back and see that the figure is closer.  I round the corner and see my salvation; a couple is getting out of a taxi.  I run full tilt, knowing that this maybe my last chance.  Throwing myself into the back of the cab, I yell an address at the startled driver.  I lean back my lungs screaming for air, I feel the bile rise in my throat.  I slowly turn and see the face of the killer as he turns the corner, eyes locking on to mine.

What Remains

It is funny how, at times I struggle to keep my writing impersonal.  I have a tendency to create characters that are somewhat reflective of people I know, or even myself.  So far in this challenge I have used familiar places but haven't created a character that is based on the familiar.  Writing win!  Here is installment 5 of the 31 day writing challenge.

Prompt:

_______ always said he did not believe in ghosts until he saw _______ on that _______ night in the middle of _________.  He said it was the smell of _________ that made him realize …

Blake sat, hands shaking and tried to explain what had happened to his Mom.  Blake always said he did not believe in ghosts until he saw his Dad on that crazy night in the middle of the hospital room.  The smells of vanilla tobacco, Old Spice, and the earth that always seemed to linger around his Dad made him realize that he was not losing his mind.  Blake watched as his Dad approached Michelle and their newborn son.  His Dad stood and looked at his first grandson, born just weeks after his death.  Blake stood mesmerized and unsure what to do.  His Dad had obviously not realized he was there and Blake just wanted to drink in his image. The realization that his Dad was still with him and with his new son lifted his spirit in a way Blake could not even imagine.  The only problem now, was trying to make his Mom believe him.  His Mom looked at him and in the way, a mother only can, she knew.  She reached for his hands and looked him right in his eyes, “You saw your Dad didn’t you?”  Blake jerked back, “How did you know?”  “Oh honey, I feel his presence too, and if anything was going to keep him here it was the baby.  He was so excited and happy; he just couldn’t hang on long enough.  I knew he would find a way to see him.”  “  I did see him, the night Alex was born.  He stood over him and just smiled.  It was his smell, there was never anyone that smelled like him.”  “  I know baby, just remember that no matter what those that love us never really leave.  Their memory, love, and legacy remain.”