Category: IU Flash Fiction Challenge

Morning on the bay is like nowhere else. Manuel could hear the the cries of seabirds and smell the richness of life itself in the air.

The dinghies softly knocked against the wooden wharf with the gentle lap of the waves. Smaller and brightly colored boats were pulled up onto the beach and inverted, like sea turtles that had decided on a nap.

Manuel breathed deeply and let the promise of a new day wash over his body. In rare moments like this, there was peace–not just peace, but also a real sense of freedom. It was the freedom from worry and the burdens of daily life.

He wished it would last forever, but he had a body to dump in the ocean, and the shore patrol would be snooping around soon.

In 250 words or less, tell us a story incorporating the elements in the picture. The 250 word limit will be strictly enforced.

Please keep language and subject matter to a PG-13 level.

Use the comment section below to submit your entry. Entries will be accepted until 5:00 PM Pacific Time on Tuesday, April 30th, 2013.

On Wednesday morning, we will open voting to the public with an online poll for the best writing entry accompanying the photo. Voting will be open until 5:00 PM Thursday.

On Friday morning, the winner will be recognized as we post the winning entry along with the picture as a feature. Best of luck to you all in your writing!

Entries only in the comment section. Other comments will be deleted. See HERE for additional information and terms.