An Unexpected Response

June 27, 2023, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story responding to “We’ve received your complaint.” Who has received the complaint and why? How was the complaint delivered — with grace, humour, vitriol? Go where the prompt leads! See June 27: Story Challenge in 99-words for more details.

An Unexpected Response – by Hugh W. Roberts

“We’ve received your complaint,” the email whispered through the screen.

Sarah’s blood ran cold. How did they know? She had never told a soul about the scratching sounds that echoed from her attic at night.

The email continued, “We apologise for the disturbance caused by our spectral resident. Rest assured; our exorcist team will investigate the paranormal activity.”

Dread clutched Sarah’s heart. She’d never have expected a reply, let alone a promise to banish the unseen entity.

The attic door creaked open as she stared at her inbox, revealing a shadowy figure.

Her complaint had caught the ghost’s attention.


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

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

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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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33 responses to “An Unexpected Response”

  1. Colleen M. Chesebro avatar

    Hugh, this was so good. I love the way you created suspense. The last line was chilling. Excellent piece.

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      I’m glad you thought so. Thanks, Colleen.

      1. Colleen M. Chesebro avatar

        You’re welcome, Hugh.

  2. willowdot21 avatar

    Excellent Hugh, both stories 💜💜

      1. willowdot21 avatar

        A pleasure Hugh 💜💜

  3. Terri Webster Schrandt avatar

    Now this is creepy, Hugh! Mind-reading spirits–we are doomed! I’ve been slowly watching the Netflix series Supernatural of late. I can’t watch it every day–pretty intense. But the spirits the guys encounter are scary!

    1. Hugh W. Roberts avatar

      I remember a TV show called Supernatural, Terri. Is it the same series on Netflix? It was made about 20 years ago I think. It was about two brothers who investigated paranormal activity. I enjoyed watching it, so may give it another go.

      1. Terri Webster Schrandt avatar

        That’s the show! It’s a little dark so I prefer to watch earlier in the evenings 😁

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