January 23, 2023, prompt: Write an optimistic story in 99 words (no more, no less). Feel free to explore optimism in all its forms, from a positive mindset to toxic positivity. Is it a heartfelt story or a devious one? So much wiggle room for the optimistic writer. Go where the prompt leads! Click here for details.


Futures – by Hugh W. Roberts

Jackie was optimistic that she’d see at least one more Christmas. She wasn’t going to allow a dodgy heart to beat her.

When her mother’s last days arrived, they celebrated Christmas in February. Her mother’s wish was to celebrate Christmas optimistically before she departed this world.

Everyone was shocked when Jackie’s heart finally gave up in April when Jackie joined her mother on the next adventure.

In December, Jackie’s husband celebrated Christmas with his new wife. While her optimism for never getting caught for what would be a triple murder gathered momentum, she knew she had the best sanguinity.

***

Written for the 99-word flash fiction challenge hosted by Charli Mills at the Carrot Ranch.

***


Enjoyed this piece of flash fiction? Then you’ll love ‘Glimpses.’

***

Glimpses

28 short stories and pieces of flash fiction take the reader on a rollercoaster of twists and turns.

Available on Amazon

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Kindle – £0.99

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26 responses to “Flash Fiction Friday – Futures”

  1. D. Avery @shiftnshake avatar

    An optimistic murderer, how lovely. Jackie’s husband won’t see valentine’s Day, will he?

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      Well, not where he is now. But on his next journey, he’ll probably see it again.

  2. cav12 avatar

    Optimism with a toxic twist. Nice.

  3. Linda Schaub avatar

    I always love your twist endings Hugh!

  4. JT Twissel avatar

    Well, that’s one way to escape the law`!

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      Unless the law manages to catch up with you.

  5. Pepper avatar

    Wasn’t expecting that at all. 😊👏🏽

  6. Terri Webster Schrandt avatar

    Twisty, twisty, Hugh, love it!

  7. Brenda avatar

    Brilliant Hugh. Like everyone else, I didn’t expect the ending

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      I’m always happy when readers don’t see the twist coming in my flash fiction, Brenda.

  8. noelleg44 avatar

    Wow, a veritable murderer’s row of victims!

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      Yes, and all in a row.

  9. KL Caley avatar

    Ooooh what a good twist! KL ❤️

  10. Urspo avatar

    Is the essay I post here or on my blog? I want to try this.

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      Publish your response on your blog and pingback back to Charli’s blog. On her blog, you’ll see where you can submit your entry too.

  11. Dan Antion avatar

    Wow – unprepared for that one, Hugh. Well done.

  12. Erika avatar

    Wow, and hear you had me again with an unexpected twist!

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      Good to hear, Erika.

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I’m Hugh

Welcome to my blog. I’m delighted to have you here. This is the place to discover tips on blogging and WordPress, flash fiction, photography, and more. I enjoy engaging with my readers, so please feel free to explore, join discussions, and contact me. I’m happy to assist! Find out more about me and my blog by clicking the ‘Meet Hugh’ button.

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