Searching

This week’s Flash Fiction Challenge is hosted by Carrot Ranch. To participate, please submit the required info. on the submission form by Feb. 12.

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that includes anxiety. Who has anxiety or what is the source? Is there conflict? How can you use anxiety to further a story? Go where the prompt leads!

With textbooks, class notes, and laptop spread on the coffee table, Barry is trying to study for his midterm. In the corner of his eye, he couldn’t help but get distracted by Claire at the dining table.

Claire was staring at her laptop like she was searching for a demon in the World Wide Web. If she blinked, the demon would disappear. Her fingers pressing buttons under the table, as if she was orchestrating an attack against the demon.

Barry forced his eyes to his notes until he saw Claire pull a clump of her hair and chew it.

Thanks for reading.

Anxiety may show itself differently for everyone. If you know anyone who is struggling with mental health, the U.S. has a national mental health hotline: (866) 903 – 3787.