Misfire

Chel Owens

Anticipation is tangible, even from flickering television to sunken sofa.

“Why don’t you ever talk to me, Jesse?”

Taught, strong limbs swing shadows across the track.

“All you do is watch those runners. You’re not a runner no more; you know that, right?”

Athletes stalk to their blocks; praying, kicking, crouching; poised. Waiting.

“I’m getting sick of it. Sick of it! D’ya hear me, Jesse?”

Set.

“You turn around right now, Jesse Wellesley, or ..or ..I’ll shoot!”

*POP*

“And that, officer, was when he grabbed the pistol from me and fired it into the couch. I ain’t seen him since.”

108

©2021 Chelsea Owens

100 Words, written for Deb’s 50 Word Prompt.

Image by Michaił Nowa from Pixabay

43 thoughts on “Misfire”

    1. It was definitely different for me, so I’m not bothered. -especially since I set out to write many posts and tell myself to try something I haven’t before, yet end up being silly every time….

      Liked by 1 person

      1. no, you’re fine, Chelsea: the other readers seemed to understand it; and you’re right to push yourself and if you misfire occasionally — like I feel I did in my current post — that’s okay; the worst thing is being ….. wait for it: you’ve just given me my new post 🙂 keep venturing, Chelsea: that’s what writers do —

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  7. I always enjoy a short mystery with an unexpected ending.
    Your conversation though with Obbverse was just an added bonus!!
    Just another “round in the chamber” 😉

    Liked by 1 person

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