WRITING OBSTACLE
Write a fast-paced scene that takes place during a rush hour.
There doesn't need to be a dramatic plot, but think about how you can create and maintain a busy and rushed feeling in a short story.
Traffic Jam
Stella gripped the wheel. The cramps had started a few minutes ago and were getting worse.
Nothing was moving in this traffic jam except her bowels.
It was July, evening rush hour, and hot. The GPS showed red for about a half mile. Horns honked. People were stepping out of their cars.
Just hang on, Stella thought, and begged her body to cooperate. In response, another massive cramp surged through her abdomen.
Finally, after several agonizing minutes, traffic began to move. The wrecked cars had been dragged to the road shoulder.
She wasn’t sure how long she could hold. It wasn’t even her car, it was her grandson’s. What would the cleaning bill be?
Just ahead at the next exit. Then after that, straight sailing. Hold on. She could do it. Had to.
