tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16004260055459579112024-02-07T07:08:04.135-05:00The Adventures of Ed and EdnaEd and Edna live here. Times are changing, and they're just trying to keep up. Their stories are told in 100 words or less by short story writer Larry LaForge.Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-77234051600654847592016-11-13T13:20:00.000-05:002016-11-14T13:58:37.923-05:00The Booth<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed entered the booth, drawing the curtain closed behind him. He rubbed his eyes and took a deep breath as he tried to collect his thoughts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed wiped the sweat from his forehead as he contemplated the seriousness of what he was about to do. His mind wandered back over the past several months. He softly whispered the words as he recollected recent events and confrontations: <i>Dishonesty. Deceit. Braggadocio. Narcissism.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Was he being too harsh?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Finally, Ed finished his business and paused for a moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Say five rosaries and ten Hail Marys,” the priest instructed from behind the screen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/11/10/november-9-flash-fiction-challenge/">November 9 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story that pivots around an unexpected ending."</span></div>
Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-66617957494161186542016-10-10T11:27:00.001-04:002016-10-12T08:23:52.288-04:00Name Game<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed looked back and forth between Edna and the huge brown Pointer she brought home from the shelter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“What’s his name?” Ed asked, still trying to figure out why Edna can’t leave well enough alone.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Help me name him,” she replied.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed scratched his head as Edna spouted off some distinct possibilities. “<i>Brownie, Expresso, Mud, Hershey, Nut Meg, Fudge . . . “</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed covered his ears in protest, clearly having heard enough. Edna frowned as she stopped in mid sentence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“The name is obvious,” Ed declared while raising his finger to make sure he had Edna’s full attention. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Huh?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Big Brown Dog.</i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/10/06/october-5-flash-fiction-challenge/">October 5 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story about a Big Brown Dog."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-23027152933286165862016-09-26T14:30:00.000-04:002016-09-26T14:30:04.790-04:00New Glasses<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed sat at the small table. The youthful technician smiled from the other side. “Great choice,” she said while fitting the frame over Ed’s nose and around his ears. She made a few tweaks before removing it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Would you like glass, polycarbonate or high-index plastic lenses?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed thought for a second, but the technician continued before he could speak. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Of course, we strongly recommend anti-scratch, anti-reflective, and anti-UV coatings.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed could hear a cash register ringing in his ears with each option.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The technician smiled again. “What are your preferences?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed didn’t hesitate this time. “Let’s go with anti-expensive.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/09/22/september-21-flash-fiction-challenge/">September 21 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story using a lens."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-90089299346551715022016-09-18T10:19:00.000-04:002016-09-18T10:19:05.399-04:00Card Trick<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Pick a card,” Ed said confidently. “<i>Any</i> card.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna complied, looking at her card without showing Ed. As instructed, she slid it face down toward him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed reinserted Edna’s card into the deck and reshuffled several times while spouting some nonsensical words. He spread the deck on the table, closed his eyes, selected one card and showed it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Edna, my dear,” Ed proclaimed with flair. “This is <b>NOT </b>your card.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Wow,” Edna feigned. “That’s amazing. Can you do it every time?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed looked around, leaning in as he whispered:</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> “Almost. It seems to work about 98% of the time.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/09/14/september-14-flash-fiction-challenge/">September 14 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story about an amazing feat."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-49594746027035472242016-08-28T16:31:00.000-04:002016-08-28T16:35:34.905-04:00Recess<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed smiled as he surveyed the play area of his old school grounds. "Boy, that's what I call an upgrade!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna tested the spongy artificial turf. "Where's the dirt?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"What’s this contraption?” Ed asked as he examined the massive jungle gym with multiple levels of netting, ladders, ropes and slides.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna nodded approvingly. “It’s called <i>progress</i>.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Suddenly a bell rang, and hordes of screaming kids poured onto the grounds, whooping and hollering as they raced toward the equipment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna grabbed Ed's hand and quickly led him out of harm's way. "Some things haven't changed!" she yelled as they ran. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/08/25/august-24-flash-fiction-challenge/">August 24 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story about an empty playground."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-40465847479957842402016-08-22T08:55:00.000-04:002016-08-22T08:55:22.315-04:00Fossil<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“It’s not what it <i>IS</i>,” Ed said excitedly. “It’s what it <i>WAS</i>.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna held up the object she dug out while tilling the garden. “Huh?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“It’s a fossil, Edna. Probably remains from some dinosaur that roamed our yard a gazillion years ago.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Huh?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed carefully removed the 6-inch, claw-like object from Edna’s trembling hand. He nodded as he inspected it, gently laid it on the ground, then walked around the flowerbed looking for more evidence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna picked it up, turned it over, and chipped away large clumps of baked dirt. She could barely make out markings underneath:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">SEARS CRAFTSMAN</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/08/18/august-17-flash-fiction-challenge/">August 17 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story that features a fossil."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-23551697460688454082016-08-15T07:33:00.000-04:002016-08-15T07:41:18.488-04:00Leaderboard<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The miracle putt made it over the crest, turned at the bottom of the hill and curled into the cup. Ed pumped his fists, looking up at the leaderboard. There he was — leader of the County Senior Golf Tournament after the first hole.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed caught Edna’s eye in the crowd as they spotted menacing clouds above. They both knew a rain delay would, ironically, extend Ed’s moment in the sun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Alas, it was not to be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The sun suddenly broke through as if the golf gods had awakened and refused to let this farce continue.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed finished dead last.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/08/11/august-10-flash-fiction-challenge/">August 10 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story about something or someone that is transient."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-2188246262260401792016-08-05T14:11:00.000-04:002016-08-08T17:11:30.012-04:00Wood Thrush<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Wow! That’s a wood thrush if I’ve ever heard one.” Ed frantically signaled for Edna to stand still. He raised his binoculars and panned the tree branches ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna knew not to speak. Ed motioned for her to stay put as he gently stepped forward, binoculars still raised to his eyes. Edna wasn’t into this bird-watching thing, but Ed insisted on dragging her along.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A few moments later another glorious tune of flute-like quality rang out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed smiled in anticipation of the sighting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna gasped and reached for her backpack, recognizing the new notification tone on her cell phone.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/08/04/august-3-flash-fiction-challenge/">August 3 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story that includes the sense of sound."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-74082082007493032912016-08-01T14:07:00.000-04:002016-08-01T14:09:37.303-04:00Home Office<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna enjoyed the aroma of her morning coffee as she sat in her favorite chair by the bay window. She took the morning newspaper out of its plastic wrap and spread the various sections on the end table.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Morning,” Ed said cheerfully as he picked up the sports section and started to walk away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Where are you going?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ed looked back and smiled, but didn’t break his stride. “To the office.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna shooed him away and turned her focus back to the headline article about the presidential election. She looked up moments later after hearing a familiar sound.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">SWOOOOOOOOOOSH.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/07/28/july-27-flash-fiction-challenge/">July 27 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write an office story."</span></div>
Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-30742375638469406402016-07-24T13:20:00.000-04:002016-07-24T13:20:46.918-04:00Blank Page<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed stared at the empty computer screen. It stared back like a barren wasteland—nothing fertile; no sign of life. The standoff lasted for hours.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Totally out of ideas with a deadline looming, he cursed the day he volunteered to write a weekly column for the local paper. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed rubbed his eyes, wracking his brain for inspiration. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Suddenly, a news notification appeared on the screen’s top right corner: <i>RESIDENTS WANT SWAMP DRAINED.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed smiled as his fingers hit the keyboard and the words flowed like a raging river.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He filed his story about career politicians well before the deadline.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/07/21/july-20-flash-fiction-challenge/">July 20 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to write about a surprise from a desert.</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-11669297742374317452016-07-19T09:05:00.000-04:002016-07-19T09:05:37.297-04:00Opportunity<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed felt his blood pressure rising. Edna watched, wondering if her husband would remember.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They worked on it daily. Edna’s constant reminders to pause and take a deep breath would now be put to the test. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed forced a smile that Edna knew wasn’t real. As he approached the scraggly kid with the blaring boombox, Ed repeated the words to himself. <i>Opportunity. Opportunity. Every aggravation is an opportunity.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna held her breath. Ed faced the kid.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Great day to be at the beach,” Ed said with calm affection.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Yessir,” the kid replied while turning down the volume.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna smiled.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/07/15/july-13-flash-fiction-challenge/">July 13 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to write a story using the emotion of anger.</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-16777385067682404782016-07-10T16:52:00.000-04:002016-07-10T16:52:58.502-04:00Catnap<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna pulled in the garage, grabbed a small bag from the passenger seat, and called for Ed. The trunk full of groceries required his assistance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She found Ed sprawled on the sofa, snoring lightly. “Up, you catnapper!” she said while giving his ribs a tickle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed rubbed his eyes as he sat up, still a little groggy. “What’d you call me?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Catnapper. That’s what you are. Always catnapping.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Huh?” Ed replied, still trying to get his bearings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Catnapper,” Edna teased again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed’s forehead crinkled as he struggled to his feet. “Edna, I’ve never stolen a cat in my life.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/07/06/july-6-flash-fiction-challenge/">July 6 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to write a story involving a cat.</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-43254382024576738672016-07-03T16:57:00.000-04:002016-07-03T16:57:34.362-04:00Convertible<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“No one <i>needs</i> a convertible, Edna.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I didn’t say I <i>needed</i> it,” Edna replied. “I said it sure looks like fun.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed grinned while shaking his head. “That’s not all you said.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“OK,” Edna admitted. “I also said everyone needs to have some fun.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The car salesman stood helplessly, turning his head from Ed to Edna and back again, not sure if he should say anything. He opted for silence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed thought for a few moments, visualizing a drive along the beach on a sunny day. “There are cheaper ways to have fun.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally, Ed smiled.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“We’ll take it.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/06/29/june-29-flash-fiction-challenge/">June 29 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge </a>to "write a story that explores human needs."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-74094937243948931812016-06-26T15:27:00.002-04:002016-06-26T19:21:48.846-04:00College Comforts<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna took in the surroundings, shaking her head in bewilderment. Ed stood speechless. <i>Is this for real?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The tour of the new campus student housing facility left them wondering what college had become. <i>Hardwood floors, high ceilings, crown moulding, gourmet dining, Jacuzzi tubs, climbing walls, swimming pools, sand volleyball courts.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna ran her fingers over the smooth granite countertop in one of the units. Ed stared at the lounge pool table. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“We plan to grow enrollment,” the college official proclaimed with a smile, “by making sure our students feel at home.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Home?” Edna blurted without thinking. “</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Home</i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">? Whose home?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/06/22/june-22-flash-fiction-challenge/">June 22 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story about home."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You're invited to connect with me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LarryLaForgeStories/">Larry LaForge Short Stories Facebook Page</a>.</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-76904295236097555852016-06-14T16:46:00.000-04:002016-06-14T16:46:03.663-04:00Service Calls<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yessir! Absolutely. We'll be there tomorrow before noon." The affable service manager seemed eager to please.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed hung up, smiling broadly. <i>The boat will be fixed in the morning!</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Oh, we're running behind," the service manager cheerfully explained when Ed called again the following afternoon.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Got you covered. You're on our board," the manager calmly informed Ed two days later. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Should get there today," Ed was told the next day. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"We're bumping you up on the list," Ed was assured the following morning.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A fuming Ed called one more time. The familiar, friendly voice responded. "What was that name again?" </span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-54183477143592697702016-06-07T10:38:00.000-04:002016-06-07T10:38:26.007-04:00The Reunion<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna looked around and smiled. “So these are the folks I’ve heard so much about.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The huge hotel ballroom was packed. The band blasted tunes from yesteryear.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna spotted a couple looking at them. “Do you know them? It looks like they’re trying to get our attention.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed squinted as he looked. “Don’t recognize them,” he said, standing too far away to read their name tags. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed started freaking out when he realized he didn’t recognize <i>anyone</i>. Not a single soul.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna saved him when she noticed the hallway sign.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Ed, your school’s reunion is in the ballroom next door.”</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-1174716368413349852016-05-29T11:44:00.000-04:002016-05-29T17:41:08.192-04:00Game Changer<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“That’s all it took?” Edna couldn’t believe it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Yup,” Ed replied. “That did it.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Edna still didn’t understand. “Let me get this straight. You had an appointment. You waited over an hour. You missed lunch. You . . “</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“I couldn’t see straight I was so mad,” Ed interrupted. “They called several people who came in <i>after</i> me.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Why didn’t you complain?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“I tried,” Ed replied. “That’s when it happened.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“Huh?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“I approached the window . . . “</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“I bet you really let them have it!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">“No need,” Ed said calmly. “Not after the receptionist gave me the sweetest smile as she called my name.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/05/27/may-25-flash-fiction-challenge/">May 25 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story that changes with a smile."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">LIKE me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LarryLaForgeStories/">FACEBOOK</a>!</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-79040785565431125552016-05-21T18:05:00.000-04:002016-05-21T18:05:10.034-04:00Tree Service<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“It’s not his real name.” Ed was pretty sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Let’s hope not,” Edna replied. “I mean, what Mom would . .”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Well, it fits,” Ed interrupted. “He kinda looks the part.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna smiled sheepishly, trying hard to get the image out of her head.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed finally broke the silence. “You have to admit, it’s appropriate for his work, though.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Yeah,” Edna agreed. “Not everyone can climb to the top of those southern red oaks and maneuver around.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They needed the work done, but still weren’t sure about this odd fellow as they stared at his business card:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">SQUIRREL WATSON</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">TREE SURGEON</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/05/18/may-18-flash-fiction-challenge/">May 18 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story that features a squirrel."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-66034495525774634862016-05-14T09:47:00.000-04:002016-05-14T09:47:15.464-04:00Cousin Fred<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Your cousin Fred.” Ed stared at the rock formation. “It’s your cousin Fred.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“What are you talking about?” Edna feigned protest, but she could see it too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The huge rock, worn by wind and flowing water, oddly took the form of a man’s head. It lay in the riverbed, staring straight at them. An oversized bulge seemed like a nose sitting below two indentations that eerily resembled eye sockets. A crevice at the bottom appeared to be grinning at them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed tilted his head to get a better view. Edna tried to look away, but couldn’t.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Your cousin Fred.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/05/12/may-11-flash-fiction-challenge/">May 11 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a story, using the power of erosion."</span></div>
Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-78655460339909303912016-05-06T09:24:00.000-04:002016-05-06T09:24:19.316-04:00Flight<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“It flew. I swear, it flew.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Don’t be ridiculous, Edna. Roaches don’t fly.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Well this one did.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed didn’t believe it. “It probably just leaped.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna shook her head. “It flew.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Well where is it now?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“How should I know? Maybe it flew into another room. Maybe it flew out to get its friends.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed looked around but couldn’t find any sign of a flying roach, or any other kind for that matter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That’s when Edna began frantically pulling clothes from her closet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> “What are you doing?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Isn’t it obvious?” Edna screamed without looking up. “We have to move.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/05/04/may-4-flash-fiction/">May 4 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "include insects in a story."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is the 100th post on THE ADVENTURES OF ED AND EDNA!</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-16942699836733247402016-04-30T11:25:00.001-04:002016-04-30T11:25:55.150-04:00Lay of the Land<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“There’s a gazebo and a huge garden,” Ed said. “It’s got some trees, but there’s an opening.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed’s golfing partner was mortified. His errant shot went directly toward one of the nicer houses surrounding the course.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed continued to console him. “No worries. Just step over the Chrysanthemums. It’s level around that side, so you should have a good lie for your next shot. The wind blows toward the green from there. It’s mostly downhill to the pin, about 120 yards. Easy nine iron.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The shaken partner smiled when he finally realized something.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed’s been there—apparently many times.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/04/27/april-27-flash-fiction-challenge/">April 27 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge </a>to "compose a 99-word flash on the theme of showing someone around a property."</span></div>
Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-72528215977680327612016-04-23T07:31:00.000-04:002016-04-23T07:31:32.179-04:00Traffic Circle<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Whattha?” Ed’s frustration grew by the second. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna tried to calm him down. “Well, it sure looks pretty.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed didn’t care about pretty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He had eased the car onto the roundabout by merging with oncoming traffic, but now couldn’t find a way out. Cars seemed to gain speed around the traffic circle, as though propelled by centrifugal force. Ed, mesmerized by merging and departing cars, couldn’t get his bearings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After their third revolution, Edna clutched the armrest. “I’m going to be sick.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Hold on!” Ed yelled as he finally veered off—heading back in the direction they had entered.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/04/21/april-20-flash-fiction-challenge/">April 20 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge </a>to "write about a circle in your life."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-49848438199307333372016-04-17T10:24:00.000-04:002016-04-17T10:24:26.823-04:00Self Sufficient<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The bearded man moved awkwardly on his prosthetic legs, barely managing to control two grocery bags cradled in his arms. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna nodded toward Ed, a clear signal to lend a helping hand. Ed greeted the man, but chose only to give him space.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The man hummed a cheerful tune as he gradually opened his trunk and clumsily lowered the bags. He shut the trunk, and slowly but surely maneuvered his way to the driver’s side of his car.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Thanks,” the man said pleasantly to Ed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“But I didn’t do anything. You did it.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I know,” the man replied. “Thanks.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/04/13/april-13-flash-fiction-challenge/">April 13 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge </a>to "write about offering to help someone."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-70386354329543927952016-04-10T17:03:00.000-04:002016-04-10T17:03:54.749-04:00Elevator<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed scanned the directory, encased in glass and covering two wall panels in the huge marble lobby.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna spotted the name of their new financial advisor. She watched as Ed pointed to the entry, shaking his head:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">MARTIN FINANCIAL, SUITE 1601</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sweat beads formed on Ed’s forehead. <i>Sixteen floors</i>, he thought as he turned toward the elevator. He tried to swallow but his throat was too dry. He eyed the shiny doors but his feet wouldn’t move. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna motioned to the right with a simple head nod. Ed looked with a smile of relief.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Up the stairs they went.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 99-word story is my contribution to the <a href="https://carrotranch.com/2016/04/07/april-6-flash-fiction-challenge/">April 6 Carrot Ranch Flash Fiction Challenge</a> to "write a response to an agoraphobic moment."</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1600426005545957911.post-14923834512492515342016-04-03T19:18:00.000-04:002016-04-03T19:18:43.455-04:00Hoss<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Edna saw the opened envelope on the kitchen counter. She glanced at the note, then burst into uncontrolled laughter.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hope to see you there, Hoss.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Hoss?” Edna said, nearly hysterical.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed grabbed the invitation from her. He still hadn’t decided if he wanted to attend his 50<span style="line-height: normal;"><sup>th</sup></span> anniversary high school reunion. This wasn’t helping.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“We called everyone <i>Hoss</i> back then,” Ed explained. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Why on earth did you do that?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I don’t know. We just did. Everyone called everyone else <i>Hoss.”</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Didn’t that get confusing?” Edna replied, trying to control her amusement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed shrugged. “Just forget it.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Whatever you say, Hoss.”</span></div>
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Larry LaForgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00958993088197867016noreply@blogger.com0