Daily Writing Challenge: Losing it All

In an effort to improve my discipline about writing every day, I’ve challenged myself to write at lest a piece of microfiction every day through the end of May. I’d love suggestions for prompts or things you’d like to see.

This story was prompted by my day job as a storage manager. I love my job, except for when I see someone down on their luck lose everything.

Losing It All

Amanda wept on the phone, talking to a receptionist who might as well be a robot.

“You don’t understand. Everything I own is in there. My kids toys. Their baby pictures.”

“To prevent the auction we need to receive payment in full no later than 5 p.m. Friday.”

“I’m living in a shelter. I don’t know anyone who can give me $150 by Friday,” Amanda whispered through her tears, desperation overcoming her embarrassment at her situation.

“Maybe your parents, or another relative, or a friend could help?” the voice on the phone offered, cracking just a bit.

“There’s no one. They all took his side, even despite the bruises. Can’t you give me just a few more weeks?”

The woman on the phone sighed. “I can’t.”

Amanda thanked the woman anyway and handed the phone back to the shelter manager.

The shelter manager offered her a hug as she cried.

After a few minutes, she wiped away her tears. The kids would be done with school soon and she’d be damned if they saw her crying again.

Looking to dark humor for strength, she offered the manager a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “I guess this is one way to purge those bad memories.”