The Writer's Workout

Bursting Free by Michelle Dornish First Place Why can’t they see beyond this mask? I sit at the dinner table, poking my limp green beans with my fork. My body seems to be vibrating in my skin, the skin which has never felt totally comfortable –or right. I am focused on my plate because my eyes are tired from holding back tears. I know if I meet my mother’s eyes, it will all come pouring out of me. I do not want to flood her with my truth. I want to calmly speak the words.

We love Fiction Potluck because the submissions are so much fun! Here are July's Fiction Potluck Finalists for the do it scared challenge. Look for the Finalist badge across social media to connect with these authors. July Finalists Avirupa Basu Avirupa Basu is an emerging writer drawn to the quiet complexities of identity, relationships, memory, and the many joys of being alive. Her work finds beauty and meaning in ordinary moments, intimate encounters, and the fleeting deta