IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS TODAY

He straightened from examining his ancient car engine as she approached. ‘Evening, ma’am. Can I help you?’

‘I’m a little lost. Is the road to Ashville around here?’

‘Sure is, you’re standing on it. You just follow it straight on ahead.’

Hilda looked perplexedly at the thick, untrammelled forest.

‘When you get to town tell the garage Bert needs a new carburettor.’

‘I sure will.’

‘And if you see my wife, ask her what’s taking her so long.’ The man smiled and turned back to his car.

Only then did she notice the gaping red hole where the back of his head should have been.


teds-car-in-the-woods
Copyright Ted Strutz

Written as part of the Friday Fictioneers challenge hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details HERE). The idea is to write a short story of 100 words based on the photo prompt (above).

To read stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit HERE.


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130 responses to “IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS TODAY”

  1. Wow I didn’t see that last line coming! That’s the last time I open the bonnet of my car without checking behind me first 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Always keep an eye on what’s behind you!!

      Like

  2. the end was totally unexpected

    Liked by 1 person

  3. A shocking ending! The thick, untrammelled forest was a good clue, but I didn’t pick up on it until I read your story the second time.

    Liked by 1 person

  4. Though the thick untrammeled forest gave me a hint, the red gaping hole still came as a surprise! Well done!

    Liked by 1 person

  5. :O Did not expect that!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Nice to cause a surprise!

      Liked by 1 person

  6. Sounds like the wife is gone forever and has been sometime. Great shock value at the end

    Liked by 1 person

  7. Ah! Gotta love those friendly ghosts always ready to help stranded women 😀

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Way better than the evil ones!

      Like

  8. Sometimes a ghost is better than a living human, I guess. Well written, as always, Iain.

    Liked by 1 person

  9. Ohh my god the punch at the end! Did noy see that coming!

    Liked by 1 person

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