Pat Mills is the Readers’ Choice in this week’s Indies Unlimited Flash Fiction Challenge. The winning entry is decided by the popular vote and rewarded with a special feature here today. (In case of a tie, the writer who submitted an entry first is the winner per our rules.) Without further ado, here’s the winning story:
Pumpkins
by Pat Mills
Guests marveled at Ashley and Craigs’ Halloween party decorations.
“You went over the top this year, especially the carved pumpkins,” one guest said.
Little did they know what trouble the pumpkins would bring.
***
Later, during the party, two police officers arrived.
“Are you the owner?” they asked Craig.
“Yes I am.”
Ashley interrupted, “Hi, officers, what’s up?” As an assistant DA, she recognized these officers.
“I’m sorry to inform you that your pumpkins are in violation of county ordinances.”
“What?”
“Ordinance 513, having a flame within ten feet of a dwelling, and…”
“Oh, come on that’s for bonfires!”
“Also, ordinance 508, an open flame near flammable materials, like trick or treaters.” Handing her the citations he said, “I’m sorry but we have to confiscate your pumpkins.”
Ashley fumed as they loaded the police car.
***
Hours later:
On their way home, a guest called Craig, who then turned to Ashley. “Wait till you hear what Kyle and Jen just saw on the front steps of the police station…”
Ashley frowned. “Nooo… not our…”
“Yep, ablaze in all their glory – our pumpkins!”
“Those devil’s!” Ashley said and ran out of the room.
She came back with the citations. “These are fakes, look at the ink!” Then, she noticed pale green writing on the back.
“Turn the lights off!”
“What is it?”
“Look!”
In ghostly pale green was written the message: No treats, just tricks! Maybe next time you’ll remember to invite me, your friend and boss – the District Attorney. Happy Halloween!
