This week’s flash fiction challenge setup over at Carrot Ranch was poignant. After a heartbreaking yet inspiring tale of coming back after a flood, Charli left us with this prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about “not all is lost.” 

I’m not sure my angle is what she had in mind.

Believing

Infernal wailing resonates. I gulp my drink, wishing it would drown the torture.

A regular beat permeates the mood. One by one, my compatriots take their place. Some surprise me with their poise. Others…well, I need another drink.

But not all is lost. When I think my nerves and head can’t take any more, my name is called. I trudge to the center. Now, others are swigging their drinks, wondering what I’ll bring.

The beat starts, followed by a that famous piano riff. My onlookers groan as I grab the mic.

Screw those guys. I haven’t stopped believing.