#thewriteprompt

A stranger asks to borrow your cell phone. You agree. She turns away and talks on it for a moment, then faces you once more. “I’m sorry,” she says, eyes red. “I’m so sorry.” Then, she runs away.

In movies and in literature, the beginnings and endings of romantic relationships are well documented. Yet friendships are highly romanticized, often being portrayed as transcending, something that lasts forever. Ones that do portray conflict are usually resolved in the end. Is it because friendships ending usually never feel resolved? Or because we have been taught to believe friendships are simple in comparison to romantic relationships, when in reality they contain just as much subtext and complexity. When friendships end, many feel a lingering hurt and confusion. Some are relieved to end their friendships. Whether it is nurturing and supportive, toxic and damaging, all our friendships shape us profoundly.

You’re at work and you print something personal (and sensitive). Unfortunately, you’ve sent it to the wrong printer and, by the time you realize it, somebody else has already scooped it up.

  Years later, your character's first love shows up on his or her doorstep again. Both your character and his/her first love are surprised at how the other person has changed (How?) This encounter causes a disruption in your character's life (How? What does your character do about it?) Write the story.