This week at the Carrot Ranch, Charli Mills challenged writers to In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story as a response to “we’ve received your complaint.” Who has received the complaint and why? How was the complaint delivered — with grace, humor, vitriol? Go where the prompt leads!
This is my response. I hope you enjoy it.
Complaint Received
“I want to lodge a complaint.”
“You can’t lodge a complaint here.”
“But the sign says, ‘Complaint Department’.”
“It used to be here, but now it’s not.”
“Where is it then?”
“Fourth floor.”
…
“The elevator’s out of order.”
“I already told you. Fourth floor.”
“How do I get to the fourth floor if the elevator’s not working?’
“Stairs.”
“Where?”
…
“The stairs are blocked.”
“Fourth floor. Remember?”
“Aaargh!”
“What’s the problem here?”
“I want to lodge a complaint, but the elevator’s broken and the stairs are blocked.”
“We’re aware of the problem. Complaint received. Thank you.”
“But —”
Thank you for reading. I appreciate your feedback. Please share your thoughts.
Note: The collection of stories made in response to the previous prompt Grains of Sand can be read at the Carrot Ranch.
Norah Colvin 
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