In the mirror, Tom’s reflection was a stranger’s—hidden behind the “Successful Son” mask. His mother’s expectations weighed heavily, the mask’s edges digging into skin, a constant reminder of the life he performed, not lived. Each compliment on his “perfect life” tightened its grip, suffocating the dreams he once had. Tom longed to rip it off, to breathe, to show the world his true face—flawed, uncertain, real. But at dinner, as his mother’s eyes sparkled with pride, he felt the mask fuse further, the line between the persona and the person blurring. Empathy? Perhaps. But first, he needed it for himself.

February 13: Story Challenge in 99-words provided to us from Carrot Ranch. Below is an excerpt of the challenge.

February 13, 2024, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about an intolerable mask. Who is wearing the mask and why? What is so intolerable about the mask? Is there empathy for the one behind the mask? Go where the prompt leads!

1. Submit by February 19, 2024. Please use the form below if you want to be published in the weekly collection. The Collection publishes on the Thursday following the next Challenge. Stories must be 99 words. Rules & Guidelines.
2. Writers retain all copyrights to any stories published at Carrot Ranch.
3. A website or social media presence is not required to submit. A blog or social media link will be included in the title of any story submitted with one.
4. Please include your byline with your title on one line. Example: Little Calves by Charli Mills. Your byline can be different from your name.
5. Please include the hashtag #99WordStories when sharing either the Challenge or Collection posts on social media.

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