The Diner

Writing by Writers Short Story Writing Contest 2022

This was a fun, challenging writing contest! The story could be fiction, non fiction, memoir or poetry but it had to contain the name of a continent, a horse’s gait, the title or a lyric of a song from the 90’s, a food you would want to eat for your last meal, the name of a gemstone, and a zodiac sign. There was a 250 word limit, which is very short!

Can you pick out all of the elements that needed to be included?

Here is the story I submitted.

The Diner

I headed the wrong way and now I’m lost. There’s a diner across the street. Even from here, it looks grimy. The blue neon is flickering, and the parking lot is empty. 

The sign on the door tells me it’s about to close, but I’m hungry. I’ll get a bite to eat, then find my way back. 

A little bell jingles when I walk in. I don’t see anyone, only hear, “It’s closing time in ten minutes.”

“I know,” I say. “I’ll order quick.”

“Sit anywhere,” the voice says, as a middle-aged woman emerges. 

She looks as dingy as the diner. Her dirty blond hair is pulled back with a fake pearl hair comb and there are ketchup stains on her apron. The smell of cigarettes and the lines around her mouth tell me she’s smoked for a long time. ‘Cancer sticks’ my mom used to call them. 

A faded menu lands on the table. Her nametag says Asia, but I’m pretty sure she’s never stepped foot beyond the streets of Philadelphia. 

She stands impatiently next to the table, notepad and pen in hand. 

“I’ll have an order of fries, extra salty, and a slice of apple pie, with ice cream.” 

She heads back to the kitchen. I guess she’s the cook too.

The fries are perfection. Hand cut, just crispy enough, and lots of salt. The pie is homemade and tastes like heaven. 

I’m happy, and full. I smile. The things you find when you get lost!