Welcome to Tuesday Tales, powered by a small group of authors, where word prompts inspire passages in the books we’re writing. I’m working on a cozy mystery, Pumpkin Patch Murder. Our word of the day is happy. When you finish the passage, make sure to visit all the talented authors of Tuesday Tales.
“I know, but she and Skip are both teachers, or rather, teacher and coach. I suppose he has some academic responsibilities along with the emphasis on sports.”
“She’s at the primary school, and he’s at the high school. She may not know him all that well.”
“She knows him better than I do.” I collapsed against the back of the car seat. “Well, I was happy for a moment. I’m too impatient.”
“There’s nothing wrong with asking her. What about getting Roy’s take while we’re at it?”
“Seriously? After he warned us off?”
Robin gave an exasperated snort.
An acidy swirl flared in my stomach. I had been chattering away, we both had, as if our lives depended on immediately figuring out who to ask about Skip. Instead of working on the murder, it was as if we were distracting ourselves. I looked off to the side. The looming ridge cast long black shadows over the curving road. Like monstrous corn head teeth on a combine, they clamped over, encasing us. A sinister sound came from behind. My eyes flicked to the rear-view mirror. My heart jumped. The truck! It looked closer than before.
As if reading my mind, Robin muttered, “This road is starting to make me nervous. I don’t like driving it at night. It seemed easier back when I was going with Warren, but now potholes have sprung up where you least expect them, and the apron has crumbled and practically disappeared. I’ll be glad when we get over the bridge.”
I said nothing, trying to keep my cool. My hands were fists in my lap.
After a moment she continued, “This dang fog. Is it getting denser or am I dreaming?” Her voice had developed a distinct tinge of anxiety.
I tapped a finger on my knee. “No, you’re not dreaming. It’s rolling in. Just take it slow. We’re in no hurry.”
Thanks for stopping by. I hope you enjoyed the piece inspired by the word happy. If you haven’t done so already, check out the other excerpts at Tuesday Tales.
Cheers & Happy Reading!
Flossie Benton Rogers, Conjuring the Magic with Spirited Stories
All rights reserved, copyright @ 2025 Flossie Benton Rogers
Great tension. My fists would be clenched, too.
Mine, too, lol. Thanks!
Wow! Great description of a truly nerve biting scene. Well done!
Thank you, Susanne!
As you always do, you describe the emotion and the tension of a scene so perfectly! I can feel the growing anxiety as the fog thickens. And the fists in her lap. Excellent! Great job!
Thanks so much!
Now I’m all tense and worked up too. Rough road to be on, fog rolling in, and now that truck – all far too close. I’m glad I’m safe at home and not in the car with them!
Oh, I have the heebie jeebies. I really hope they are okay. They seem to be in a lot of danger. Great job!