Fall Writing Frenzy

Awakened Hollow

The bus stopped with a lurch and I nearly bashed my face against the seat. I heard Katie’s malicious snicker.
Our class was doing a project on local legends, and we were touring Sleepy Hollow. This place made my skin prickle. But then, my worst nightmare came true: I found myself with Katie and her minions in a pumpkin patch.

“This is dumb,” Katie said. “Ewwwwwww. This pumpkin has a weird FACE on it.”
“DON’T TOUCH THAT,” I shouted.
My heart pounded. Could it be?
They stared, and my face flushed. Katie’s lip curled.
“I dare you to put it on,” she sneered.
I stayed quiet.
“Chicken,” she taunted. The other girls grinned.
I clenched my jaw and marched over. “I’ll show them,” I thought. I slid the pumpkin over my head. The acrid smell stung my nose.
Then...
Nothing happened.
Katie spoke.
“Well, I’m bored,” she declared. The other girls bobbed in agreement. “Let’s head back,” she said, and they dutifully followed.
I let loose a breath.
What was I afraid of?
It was a normal pumpkin, it wasn’t cursed. I put my hands on the gourd and tugged.
It didn’t budge.

My real nightmare was just beginning.

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I didn't think I would throw my hat into the ring, but thanks to the fantastic entries of my critique partners, I finally caved and put something together. The funny thing is, after writing a mere 200 words, I found myself getting really excited about the different possibilities of this one tiny story.

Best of luck to all of the other entrants!

During one of the most challenging years imaginable, I hope that others likewise enjoyed this contest. I can't wait to read other entries.

AND THANK YOU if you read MY entry, and read this far.

Final, HUGE thanks to Lydia Lukidis and Kaitlynn Sanchez!