Category Archives: 100 words

Understatement

Posted on February 17, 2011 by Fran Hart

“I have a small obsession with owls,” she confessed, ushering me into her home. I’d already noted her sweater (owls knitted into the rib pattern with buttons stitched on for eyes) and jewelry (small, copper owl pendants with tiny turquoise … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction, Writing | 11 Comments

The Bottom Line

Posted on February 15, 2011 by Fran Hart

“Look at how she engages the little ones,” I said. Principal Hodges and I watched two members of our assessment staff working with the Special Needs class. “Yes, Sue’s remarkable,” he commented without expression. “Joe’s good, too.” Joe, our speech … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction, Writing | 2 Comments

Naturally

Posted on February 9, 2011 by Fran Hart

Jessie and I hadn’t spoken since the argument before our mother’s funeral. “It’s ridiculous!” Jessie’s concern was more for her own reputation than our recently deceased mother’s. “Of course it’s ridiculous, but it’s Mother’s last wish. I have to honor … Continue reading →

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Regrets

Posted on January 29, 2011 by Fran Hart

I’d have told anyone who asked it was harmless. The ads and posters touting the dangers had nothing to do with me. I was fifteen. From my first drag I was addicted. A pack of cigarettes cost less than a … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction | 7 Comments

Mystery Dance

Posted on January 23, 2011 by Fran Hart

When I arrived at the scene no one seemed interested in checking my credentials so I kept my wallet in the pocket of my coat. As more officers, the coroner and the detective in charge arrived they focused on the … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction | 4 Comments

According to one who knows

Posted on January 23, 2011 by Fran Hart

Mary waited patiently while her friend’s sobs subsided. She patted her back and rubbed her shoulders, making soothing noises and saying things like “there, there.” After a while, Sue’s breathing slowed, with only the occasional hiccup breaking through as she … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction | 4 Comments

Waiting

Posted on January 16, 2011 by Fran Hart

Margaret sits in the waiting room, alone with her thoughts. The events of this morning, looping in her mind like a tragic news clip, solely hers to witness. “Mama! I’m imbisible!” With less than a second’s consideration she’d responded, “You … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction | 8 Comments

The Board

Posted on January 10, 2011 by Fran Hart

Rodie takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the climb. One foot after the other, one rung at a time, he ascends. At the top he steps forward. A skinny boy in bright trunks, he moves cautiously between rails. Past … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction | 2 Comments

Famous Last Words

Posted on December 17, 2010 by Fran Hart

“I don’t think I can do this.” “Put on your game face. You’ll be fine.” “John, I know tenure is important to you, but I don’t think I can spend all evening with the faculty and their spouses, pretending there’s … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction | 2 Comments

For the Love of Strays

Posted on December 12, 2010 by Fran Hart

She watched the man swing a denim-clad leg behind him, dismounting his Harley. “Steer clear of him, Sandy. He’s a wild one. He’ll break your heart.” The voice took her back to the day her mother came home and found … Continue reading →

Posted in 100 words, Fiction, Writing | 1 Comment