Prose Writing Prompt of the Week: Write about a fictional first job interview.
Poetry Prompt of the Week: Write a poem about a (yours, or someone else’s) first kiss.
First Kiss
by Jamie DeBree
It wasn’t supposed to be like this.
Smooth, slimy skin mashing my lips,
like a snail spreading awkward wetness.
His energy and eagerness overpower
my need for slow, gentle seduction.
Too much, too fast, too hard, just…
Stop.
Maybe we’ll try this again later,
when the newness wears off and
I’ve caught my breath again. Dried off.
###
Skills
by Jamie DeBree
“I must admit, while your resume is very impressive, we’re a little confused about the lack of previous job history included. Can you tell us a little about where you’ve worked before, and what kind of experience you have?”
You knew this was coming, Tracy silently coached herself while forcing a smile at the man across the table. Keep it vague, but relevant. All he needs to know is that you can do the job he needs you to do. That’s it.
“I’ve been employed privately by someone who wishes to remain anonymous for most of my life,” she began, pleased that the words sounded far smoother than she felt. “I’ve been performing fuctions that included the same type of tasks you’re looking for. I’m excellent at keeping a calendar, scheduling meetings, and organizing files, and I’m also very good at research and creating documents when needed. I’ve also successfully planned several large-scale events that went off without any problems whatsoever, and I can arrange and organized trips if needed.”
Mr. Englebrecht sat back in his chair, a confused look on his face.
“You’ve only had the one employer then? How many years were you in his or her employ?
Tracy considered that for a moment. “I’d say probably thirty-two years or so. Ever sincel I turned twelve.”
Mr. Englebrecht tapped a pen on the dark, cherry surface of his desk.
“There are laws against chid labor in this country. I’m surprised your anonymous boss was able to get away with that.”
“And much more.” Tracy nodded, wishimg they could end this line of questioning. “I’m sorry I can’t give you details, but I promise I’m good at everything you need me to be, and possibly more. I won’t let you down, Sir.”
“Well, this is highly unusual. Normally we would never even consider an application like this, but I’m inclined to believe you, and we’re desperate to fill this position. Do you think that in lieu of your job history you’d be willing to give us a day’s worth of work, and then we’ll make a decision.”
Tracy nodded. “Of course. Just tell me when, and where. I won’t let you down.”
He smiled. “No time like the present, unless you have something else to do today.” When she shook her head, he went on. “I’ll have you work in the business office with Stephanie Thomas today. My secretary is just outside the door, and he’ll show you how to get there.”
Tracy worked hard all day, smoothly following her assigned mentor and grateful that she could. At the end, she found herself back in Mr. Englebrecht’s office.
“You really must tell me who trained you,” he said, looking over a form she’d created. “Your work is exquisite. You’re hired, of course. Can you start tomorrow?”
Tracy nodded. “Thank you, Sir. I promise you won’t regret it.”
“And the person who trained you to do all of this? A hint, even?”
“I’m sorry, Sir, but it really doesn’t matter anymore. He’s dead.”
###
Thanks for reading! Feel free to submit your poems/stories for the week in the comments if you’d like. And check back Monday for new writing prompts!
2 responses to ““First Kiss” and “Skills” by Jamie DeBree”
These were kind of hard prompts – nice work!
Thanks! I thought they were pretty easy, really… 😉