Mourning Glory

A short story written by Matt Gardner with PlotWeaver: Cards of Creation, a storytelling game made by Mod Hob Cooperative

This story uses an Inverted Plot Pattern, written in 15-minute timed acts with all story cards drawn at random. For more information, visit www.plotweavergame.com

Act 1: Immediate Conflict or Crisis

(Story Element Cards: The Enigmatic Charmer, Countryside Farm, Time Pressures, and Romance)

When was the last time Ang had been back to the farm? It had been years; she’d been so caught up in her sales performance and quarterly goals to care what was going on at home.

She hadn’t thought about home for so long that what should have felt familiar was only a shadow of memory. The house looked desaturated, and nature had started to wear down the fresh paint she remembered from her last visit. Of course, it didn’t look as nice; her parents were aging, and there were no new additions to the house.

As she gathered her resolve to knock, the porch light flicked on, and Ang’s mother opened the door. “What took you so long?” her mom whispered.

Ang walked in, gave her a reassuring smile, and in that moment decided she needed to bring the light. She’d warmed up rooms full of cynical businessmen and turned morale around just by setting the proper example. She was not going to let her mom’s mood break her spirit.

She believed with all her heart that her dad would make it through. He still had a chance, and with the right attitude, they could get through this.

She swiftly made her way up the stairs to her father’s room. Her mom corrected her as Ang reached for the door. “Your father hasn’t slept upstairs for over a year, honey,” she said with a frown. “Once chemo started, he didn’t have the energy to go upstairs. He’s in your old room.”

Ang replied patiently, with a smile. “How silly of me, old habits and all.” She gracefully descended the stairs, holding herself together as best she could. As she reached the door, she was met by a medical assistant.

“Helen, I’m afraid to tell you this, but your husband, William, has died.”

Immediately, two thoughts flashed through Ang’s mind: WTF? How did that happen? And who is this guy? He’s very good-looking.