Prompt:
Write a story set in a world where crying is forbidden.
I flung open my front door and ran to the back of the house. My bedroom wall is a big window, giving me a view of the ocean. But I violently rip my curtains shut and collapse on the bed. I can’t do this. I could get caught. I can’t do this. I have to stay positive, like President Smith says. His platform is, “Smile away all your fears, be positive, and never, ever shed tears.”
Crying is illegal. I could be sent to jail for this. Or worse. But I cannot help it. Because ninth grade girls are mean. On purpose. And none of them ever get caught. I sob into my pillow and hear my door creak open. My sister stands there looking at me in horror. I wipe my face and give her a pleading look. But she sprints away and in the distance I hear a phone dial.
I panic. I toss pillows back into place, throw open the curtains, and shove shoes and books under my bed. I bolt the door and hide myself under my covers, shaking with fear. Just as I think the coast is clear, I see my sister in the doorway for a split second. Then, she darts away just as I hear the doorbell ring…