July 18, 2023, prompt: Write a story about a rubber duck in 99 words (no more, no less). Where is this duck — somewhere typical like a tub or somewhere surprising like a roller derby. Who is with the duck? What is happening? Go where the prompt leads! See July 18: Story Challenge in 99-words for more details.
How A Rubber Duck Saved My Life – by Hugh W. Roberts
My new rubber duck sat in the bath with me.
Its eyes were staring while its beak was open in a silent scream. It looked like it had seen something terrible.
When I reached out to touch it, it vanished.
Frightened, I got out of the bathtub. I had no idea what had just happened. It scared me.
When I returned to the bathroom, my duck was still missing.
What had it seen? Was it something that I should be afraid of if I saw it?
I don’t know, but I’m glad I didn’t see what was behind me.
Written for the 99-word flash fiction challenge hosted by Charli Mills at the Carrot Ranch.
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28 short stories and pieces of flash fiction take the reader on a rollercoaster of twists and turns.
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Are you sure it isn’t still behind you? :)
I keep looking, but can’t see anything strange.
Maybe it’s because it’s not strange that you can’t see it. :)
Well done Hugh. :)
Thank you.
Oooh! That’s scary, Hugh. I wonder what was behind you.
Or maybe the duck only saw me and didn’t like what he saw, Norah.
Impossible!
Poor little duckie! Maybe he went where all rubber toys go…the heavenly recycle bin! Good one, Hugh! 🦆🛁
Thanks, Terri. Who knows where the duckie went. And who knows what it was he saw when looking. Maybe it was just me he was terrified of.
That is funny, Hugh!!
Intriguing, great fun story. I can’t help but wonder where you where when you got the idea…
The prompt words always seem to spark something, Paul. When I read this week’s prompt, I imagined myself laying in a bath with a rubber duck floating in front of me.
Don’t get back in the water 😁💜
I’d already pulled the plug out, but showers from now on.
I agree I am the same….. But watch those curtains…….
Shivers, Hugh! Only 99 words, but you make it happen!
I always like it when a piece of flash fiction gives readers’ shivers.
You have that ability, Hugh!!
Great to have a rubber duck as a sentinel but didn’t do much good! Great story!
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it.
The worst feeling is when our cat looks behind us as if there’s something dangerous. Great job, Hugh.
Same with my dogs, Dan. They will walk to a corner of a room and start barking as if something is there.
Maybe…